This bill amends West Virginia Code §17-16-6 to establish a clear timeline for the Department of Highways (DOH) to process entrance permit applications for work on highways. The bill specifies that the DOH has 30 days to approve or deny a permit request, and if no response is given within that timeframe, the permit is automatically considered approved. Additionally, if changes are requested by the applicant, they may only do so once, and the request will be deemed satisfied if all changes from the initial request are completed. In cases of contested applications, the DOH must respond within 15 days, or the original request will also be considered approved. If a permit is denied, the applicant has 15 days to contest the denial in magistrate court.

The bill also introduces provisions regarding temporary access permits, stating that the same 30-day approval timeline applies, with similar conditions for changes and contesting denials. Notably, if the applicant complies with the outlined guidelines, no application fee will be charged. However, for emergency access requests or expedited processing, the DOH may impose a $500 application fee. Furthermore, if a surety bond is required for a temporary entrance, it will only cover damages related to the entrance area itself. The bill aims to streamline the permitting process while ensuring that necessary regulations are maintained.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-16-6
Committee Substitute: 17-16-6
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 17-16-6