IA HF631

Amends Iowa Code Section 455B.276 to require the Director of Natural Resources to issue variances from backwater requirements for bridge construction or repair projects

Applies to state agencies, counties, and cities seeking variances when bridge projects exceed established backwater limits in flood plains

Variance must be granted if the director receives written acknowledgments from all affected landowners who have not already provided flooding easements

Written acknowledgments must state that each landowner's property will be subject to flooding during and after the bridge construction or repair

Under current rules, authorities may be required to acquire flooding easements from affected landowners for excess backwater; this bill provides an alternative path through landowner acknowledgment