A bill for an act relating to the use and withdrawal of Iowa’s surface and groundwater resources, including permitting requirements.

This bill (HSB 713) updates Iowa's water resource management rules by requiring permits for most surface and groundwater withdrawals. It directly affects agricultural, municipal, industrial, and recreational water users who must apply for permits before withdrawing water, with exemptions only for "nonregulated uses." Key provisions clarify "beneficial use" to include domestic, agricultural, and recreational needs while adding strict conditions: permits may be denied if withdrawals threaten long-term water availability, harm natural flow, or impair navigability. The bill also sets timelines for permit decisions (90 days for new applications, 30 days for renewals) and mandates that permits include conditions to mitigate environmental impacts.