House Bill 426 Summary

• Designates Jockey's Ridge in Nags Head, Dare County as a unique coastal geological formation area of environmental concern, requiring permits for removal of more than ten cubic yards of sand per year within the protected area.

• Requires the Department of Administration to hold a public hearing in the affected county and consult with the Joint Legislative Commission on Governmental Operations before granting easements for spoil disposal or dumping rights on state property, effective August 1, 2024.

• Defines "built-upon area" for state and local stormwater programs to exclude slatted decks, swimming pool water areas, specific stone surfaces, porous trails, landscaping materials, and artificial turf installed over pervious surfaces.

• Prohibits local governments from enacting stormwater ordinances or programs that define "built-upon area" differently than state standards, except where specifically required by federal law, and requires all local stormwater programs to update accordingly.