AK HB199

Establishes a permit system for activities affecting anadromous fish habitat, requiring persons to obtain permits before using, diverting, obstructing, polluting, or otherwise affecting designated anadromous fish habitat water bodies.

Creates three permit types: general permits for low-impact activities issued on a regional basis, minor permits for activities with minimal adverse effects after public notice, and major permits for activities with potential to significantly adversely affect anadromous fish habitat requiring detailed assessments and public comment periods of at least 30 days.

Presumes all naturally occurring permanent or seasonal surface water bodies are important anadromous fish habitat in the absence of a site-specific determination by the commissioner, with the commissioner authorized to conduct or receive requests for site-specific determinations.

Requires applicants for major permits to provide performance bonds to ensure completion of mitigation measures, with governmental entities exempt from bonding requirements; prohibits permits for activities causing substantial damage to habitat or converting wild fish populations to hatchery-dependent populations.

Establishes penalties including misdemeanor violations, civil penalties up to $10,000, and liability for restoration costs; creates a fee system for permit review and services with funds separately accounted for.