IA HF2446

Requires wind energy conversion facility applicants to commission a subsurface and environmental survey by a licensed surveyor before obtaining construction permits, assessing risks to karst topography, wells, septic systems, and groundwater.

Mandates third-party insurance covering all landowners within the affected watershed and the state of Iowa, with minimum coverage sufficient for full replacement value of potential losses identified in the survey.

Requires applicants to obtain an independent legal opinion from an unaffiliated Iowa attorney affirming the project does not constitute a nuisance under Chapter 657.

County boards of supervisors must hold at least one public hearing and may only issue permits if the applicant demonstrates the project will more likely than not confer a net benefit to county residents.

Violations constitute a public nuisance with civil penalties of at least $5,000 per day, and aggrieved persons may bring civil actions in district court.