A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT To direct the division of water quality of the department of environment and natural resources to authorize use of three‑sided, open‑bottom, or bottomless culverts on private property, based on sound engineering practice, as recommended by the joint LEGISLATIVE TRANSPORTATION OVERSIGHT committee.
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  Chapter 143 of the General Statutes is amended by adding a new section to read:
"§ 143‑215.74P.  Authorization of three‑sided culverts.
The Division of Water Quality of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources shall allow the use of structures known as three‑sided, open‑bottom, or bottomless culverts throughout the State, based on sound engineering practice, when the structures will be located on private property. The Division shall not limit use of these structures to locations where they must be tied into bedrock. Structures authorized under this section may not be transferred to, or operated or maintained by, the Department of Transportation."
SECTION 2.  This act is effective when it becomes law.