HB 5309 Summary

• Adds exemption from permit requirements for earth changes necessary to protect life or property during a gubernatorial state of emergency within the declared geographic area.

• Allows the department to issue permits for earth change activities during a state of emergency, which property owners must obtain before conducting such activities.

• Clarifies that permit exemptions do not shield parties from enforcement if exempted activities cause violations of environmental protection rules or result in soil erosion or sedimentation.

• Modifies Section 9112 to specify that permit requirements apply "except as otherwise provided in this part," establishing conditions under which permits may not be required.