Bill > HB2114

This bill clarifies and updates regulations concerning dams, water obstructions, and related infrastructure in Kansas. It makes several key changes, including expanding the definition of what constitutes a water obstruction, increasing permit application fees for constructing or modifying dams and water obstructions, and introducing new civil penalty provisions. The bill now specifies that certain structures like dry detention road fills or low-head dams with heights below stream banks will be considered water obstructions rather than dams, and it establishes a tiered fee structure for permit applications based on the hazard class and size of the dam. Additionally, the legislation requires that dam safety inspections be conducted by licensed professional engineers approved by the chief engineer, with inspection frequencies varying by dam hazard class. The bill also introduces a new civil penalty system, allowing the chief engineer to impose fines between $100 and $1,000 per violation, with continued violations potentially incurring additional penalties. All civil penalty amounts will be deposited into the state's water structures fund, and individuals who disagree with the chief engineer's orders can appeal through the Kansas judicial review act.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Water (H)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2114/