Hand County approves one right‑of‑way permit for drain‑tiling project, directs staff to develop county policy

Hand County commissioners approved a permit to occupy county right of way for a drain‑tiling installation and instructed staff to develop a county policy to govern future drain‑tiling requests.

A county official introduced the permit and described concerns from superintendents about unpermitted drain tiling encroaching on county right of way, which can send water downstream and threaten bridges and ditches. Commissioners debated requiring hydrology studies, the role of NRCS wetland guidance, and whether studies would impose undue cost or discourage applicants. One commissioner argued, "I make motion we approve this permit and then maybe develop policy as to exactly how we're gonna regulate this," proposing short‑term approval for the current application while the county crafts clearer standards.

The board voted to approve the individual permit by voice vote. During discussion commissioners emphasized that permits should require proper locates and markers, coordination with 1‑call locates, and conditions that protect county infrastructure. Commissioners asked staff to return with recommended permit language and a policy that clarifies when a hydrology study is required, who bears study costs, and how the county will record installed lines.

The approved permit covers the specific application before the board; commissioners said a countywide policy and clearer permit procedures will follow. The board did not adopt a county ordinance at this meeting; it approved the single permit and directed staff to draft broader standards.