Purpose

• This bill directs the commissioner of natural resources to update rules so that certain boat storage structures on public waters can be built or placed with fewer permit requirements.
• Specifically, it changes the definition of watercraft canopy to allow roofs made of fabric or metal, not just fabric.

Main Provisions

• Amend Minnesota Rules chapter 6115 by redefining watercraft canopy from “fabric covered roof” to “fabric or metal-covered roof.”
• Create a permit exemption: a boat storage structure on public waters can be placed without a permit if it has a fabric or metal-covered roof and is not prohibited by Minnesota Rules part 6115.0210 subpart 3.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Expands permissible roof materials for watercraft canopies from fabric-only to fabric or metal.
• Removes or relaxes permit requirements for certain boat storage structures on public waters, provided they comply with the conditions in 6115.0210 subpart 3.
• Relies on rulemaking to implement and define the specifics of what is allowed under the new definition and exemption.

Relevant Terms - watercraft canopy - fabric covered roof - fabric or metal-covered roof - Minnesota Rules chapter 6115 - public waters - boat storage structure - permit - Minnesota Rules part 6115.0210 subpart 3 - rulemaking - commissioner of natural resources