(a) After notice of an application is given, the board may make a minor change to the application without requiring the filing of a petition for change if the board finds all of the following:

(1) The change does not enlarge or increase the authorized rate, amount, or season of diversion.

(2) The change does not increase the total area subject to inundation by water diverted to storage or the area where facilities will be constructed.

(3) The change is not substantial or constitutes a reduction, agreed to by the applicant, in the authorized diversion, affected area, or other feature of the application.

(4) The change does not have the potential to adversely affect the water supply of other legal users of water or instream beneficial uses.

(b) (1) A minor change under this section may be initiated by the applicant or, with the applicant’s consent, the board. The board may obtain the applicant’s consent informally through an oral conversation or other informal means, but promptly shall confirm that consent by mail or electronic mail directed to the applicant.

(2) Before making a minor change under this section, the board shall provide notice as described in paragraph (3) and allow at least 15 days for public comment.

(3) The board shall provide notice by mail or electronic mail to the applicant and any person who has filed a protest against the application and shall post notice on its internet website.

(Added by Stats. 2019, Ch. 255, Sec. 2. (SB 779) Effective January 1, 2020.)