Bill > SB174

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for erosion and sediment control permits for oil and gas activities that disturb five or more acres of land, requiring project developers to obtain a permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection or a local conservation district before commencing work. The bill defines key terms such as "earth disturbance" and "licensed professional" and sets specific timelines for permit application review, mandating that the department or conservation district must complete an administrative review within five business days and issue a permit within 43 business days (or 14 days for expedited applications signed by a licensed professional). The bill introduces a fee structure of $500 plus $100 per disturbed acre, creates an expedited permit process with some project type exceptions, and requires quarterly reporting to legislative committees on permit application metrics and processing. Additionally, the bill mandates an annual third-party evaluation of the permit review process to assess consistency, effectiveness, and adherence to established protocols. While the bill primarily focuses on oil and gas activities causing significant earth disturbance, it clarifies that smaller projects must still comply with existing erosion and sediment control regulations, with the act taking effect 30 days after passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=174