CO SB075

Adds an exemption for water wells not exceeding 15 gallons per minute that are used to irrigate not more than one acre of commercial crops from Colorado's prior appropriation system.

Exempted wells must be used for not more than three single-family dwellings and can serve ordinary household purposes, fire protection, watering of livestock, or irrigation of up to one acre of commercial or home crops.

Establishes a presumption that wells used solely for irrigation of not more than one acre of commercial crops will not cause material injury to existing water rights, though this presumption may be rebutted with evidence.

Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly (August 5, 2015) unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case approval by voters at the November 2016 general election is required.

Applies to well permits applied for on or after the effective date.