Bill > HB873

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for erosion and sediment control permits in Pennsylvania, requiring anyone proposing an earth disturbance activity to obtain a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) before starting work, with some exceptions for projects already covered by National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System requirements. The bill mandates that the DEP or a conservation district must issue permits within 45 days of submission, with expedited 20-day approval for applications submitted by licensed engineers. The legislation also requires the DEP to submit an annual report to the General Assembly detailing permit application statistics, including the number of applications received and approved, broken down by industry sector, average review times, staff information, reasons for permit denials, and total revenue from permit fees. The bill defines key terms such as "administratively incomplete" (lacking necessary documents) and specifies that the DEP can impose permit conditions to ensure compliance with existing environmental laws. The new regulations will take effect 60 days after passage, providing a structured approach to managing earth disturbance activities and improving transparency in the permitting process.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=873