SB 6264-S - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/16/04)

Provides that the department may adopt general permits for activities if the department determines that the activities are similar in nature, will cause only minimal adverse impacts on fish life when performed separately, and will have only a minimal cumulative impact on fish life.

Declares that a "general permit," as it is used in this act, means a hydraulic project approval that covers multiple projects within a defined geographic area, in lieu of a standard permit being issued to each applicant under RCW 77.55.100 or 77.55.110.

Requires the general permit to include the following: (1) A precise description of the activities covered by the permit;

(2) The conditions to protect fish life;

(3) The time, manner, locations, and methods an applicant must follow to receive coverage under the permit;

(4) The geographic scope of the permit;

(5) The method to obtain coverage under the general permit, which may include an abbreviated application process; and

(6) Any requirements for reporting at project completion.