(1) A prospective new owner of a Group A water system may not take possession of the system without first obtaining a new operating permit.

(2) The department shall send an application to the prospective new owner when the department is notified of transfer of ownership in accordance with WAC 246-290-035(2). The new owner shall proceed with the permit process under WAC 246-294-030.

(3) The department shall not charge a fee for a new permit resulting from a change in ownership. The permit shall be effective from the date of issuance by the department until the next scheduled permit renewal date, at which time the department will charge a renewal fee.

(4) This section applies to the prospective owner, and the requirements of WAC 246-290-035(2) apply to the owner transferring the system.