UT HB0412

Requires owners/operators of utility scale solar and wind power plants (exceeding 10 megawatts) to consult with the Division of Wildlife Resources regarding potential wildlife and habitat impacts before obtaining local permits

Consultation must include submission of project location, layout, timeline, and wildlife surveys; a meeting with Division personnel; and receipt of recommendations for avoiding, minimizing, or mitigating wildlife impacts

Division of Wildlife Resources must provide written recommendations within 30 days of receiving a complete consultation request and establish rulemaking for consultation procedures

Local jurisdictions must consider the Division's recommendations when evaluating permits, but the Division has no authority to approve or deny applications, and operators are not required to implement recommendations

Effective date is May 6, 2026; includes coordination clause with H.B. 16 (Solar Power Plant Amendments) to align wildlife consultation requirements