A. The Board may issue a special exception to allow the withdrawal of ground water in the case of an unusual situation in which requiring the user to obtain a ground water withdrawal permit would be contrary to the intended purpose of the Act.
B. In reviewing an application for a special exception, the Board may consider the amount and duration of the proposed withdrawal, the beneficial use intended for the ground water, the return of the ground water to the aquifer, and the effect of the withdrawal on human health and the environment. Any person requesting a special exception shall submit an application to the Board containing such information as the Board shall require by regulation adopted pursuant to this chapter.
C. Any special exception issued by the Board shall state the terms pursuant to which the applicant may withdraw ground water, including the amount of ground water that may be withdrawn in any period and the duration of the special exception. No special exception shall be issued for a term exceeding 15 years.
D. A violation of any term or provision of a special exception shall subject the holder thereof to the same penalties and enforcement procedures as would apply to a violation of a ground water withdrawal permit.
E. The Board shall have the power to amend or revoke any special exception after notice and opportunity for hearing on the grounds set forth in subsection D of § 62.1-266 for amendment or revocation of a ground water withdrawal permit.
1992, c. 812; 2018, c. 424.
Structure Code of Virginia
Title 62.1 - Waters of the State, Ports and Harbors
Chapter 25 - Ground Water Management Act of 1992
§ 62.1-254. Findings and purpose
§ 62.1-255.1. Certified mail; subsequent mail or notices may be sent by regular mail
§ 62.1-258.1. Irrigation wells for nonagricultural use prohibited; exceptions
§ 62.1-259. Certain withdrawals; permit not required
§ 62.1-259.1. Certain withdrawals; technical evaluation required
§ 62.1-260. Permits for existing ground water withdrawals in existing ground water management areas
§ 62.1-262.1. Permits for withdrawals from Eastern Shore Groundwater Management Area
§ 62.1-263. Criteria for issuance of permits
§ 62.1-263.1. Permit rationale
§ 62.1-264. Permits for public water supplies
§ 62.1-265. Drought relief wells
§ 62.1-266. Ground water withdrawal permits
§ 62.1-267. Issuance of special exceptions
§ 62.1-268. Issuance of special orders