CA SB697

Revises State Water Resources Control Board procedures for investigating water rights in stream systems, making field investigations optional rather than mandatory while still requiring detailed investigation of water use

Authorizes the board to issue information orders requiring water claimants to submit reports on water use and basis of water rights if existing information is deemed inadequate, with responses due within 75 days

Permits the board to inspect property or facilities where water is claimed to be used, diverted, or conveyed, with authority to obtain inspection warrants through court procedures

Allows the board to require claimants to share costs of preparing reports when individual reports would duplicate efforts, with burden of preparation required to be reasonable relative to benefits obtained

Extends existing reconsideration, amendment, and judicial review procedures to decisions and orders issued under these water rights investigation provisions