HB 1538 Summary

• Establishes permitting requirements for constructing, reconstructing, enlarging, modifying, repairing, removing, or abandoning dams and reservoirs, with applications reviewed and approved by the Board of Land and Natural Resources.

• Requires periodic inspections of dams based on hazard classification: annually for high hazard potential dams, every two years for significant hazard potential dams, and every five years for low hazard potential dams, conducted by consulting engineers hired and paid by owners.

• Creates a dam rehabilitation loan revolving fund to provide loans to dam owners for repairs and maintenance, funded through legislative appropriations, federal sources, revenue bonds, and loan repayments.

• Establishes emergency action plan requirements for high and significant hazard potential dams, including notification lists, inundation maps, and coordination with state and county agencies.

• Authorizes the Department of Land and Natural Resources to take immediate control of dangerous dams, including lowering water levels or draining reservoirs, with costs recoverable from owners through loans.