Brief Description: Exempting limited water storage facilities from permit requirements.

Sponsors: Representatives Hunt, Buck, Williams, Linville, Kenney, Walsh, Wallace, B. Sullivan, Dickerson, McCoy, Chase, Simpson and Roach.

Hearing Date: 2/23/05

Staff: Caroleen Dineen (786-7156).

Background:

With certain exceptions, new rights to use surface or ground water must be established according to the water right permit system. The water code requires reservoir permits for both surface reservoirs for water and for the storage of water in an underground formation for subsequent use as part of an underground artificial storage and recovery project. A water right permit, called a "secondary" permit, is also required for the use of the water stored in a surface reservoir.

Summary of Bill:

A reservoir permit is not required for certain rain barrels, cisterns, or other similar facilities for capturing runoff from roofs, paved areas, and other hard surfaces on a single residential, commercial, or industrial property or public facility. This exemption applies if the total amount of water storage does not exceed 10,000 gallons and the water stored is intended to be put to beneficial use on the property where the rainwater is collected. Neither a water right nor such a right in the form of a secondary permit is required for the use of the water stored in an exempt facility.

The Department of Ecology must consult with local building permit agencies to monitor installation of very large capacity rainwater collection systems for any cumulative effect the systems may have on ground water recharge rates and potential impacts upon well users from the same ground water source.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.