| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee | |
HB 2515
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Concerning measuring devices for small water withdrawals.
Sponsors: Representatives Chandler, Condotta, Newhouse and Warnick.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/23/2008
Staff: Jaclyn Ford (786-7339).
Background:
All groundwater withdrawals require an application and permit from the Department of Ecology
(DOE). Exemptions from this permit include any withdrawal of public groundwater for
stock-watering purposes, or for watering a lawn or a noncommercial garden less than 1/2 acre.
Single or group domestic uses or industrial purposes in an amount not exceeding five thousand
gallons a day are also exempt [RCW 90.44.050].
The DOE has the authority to require the person or agency making any withdrawals from an
exempt well to furnish information as to the means for and the quantity of that withdrawal [RCW
90.44.050].
Summary of Bill:
If the DOE requires an exempt well to have a metering device, the DOE will bear the full cost of
the installation and periodic maintenance of the meter. The DOE will work with the landowner to
find a mutually agreeable time for the installation and maintenance of the meter.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.