Large water appropriations projects evaluation and permitting provision

Minnesota Senate Bill SF3320 introduces a pre-application evaluation process for projects that plan to use over 100 million gallons of water annually or 250,000 gallons daily. Before finalizing project details, applicants are encouraged to consult with the state commissioner to assess water availability and compatibility with existing uses. Local government employees must notify the commissioner within ten business days if they are contacted about such projects. The bill also requires permit conditions to consider water conservation and addresses environmental reviews for large data center expansions. ([myreptracker.com](https://www.myreptracker.com/minnesota/bills/mn-2025-2026-regular-session-sf-3320?utm_source=openai))

MN SF3320 is a senate bill in the Minnesota 94th Legislature 2025-2026, sponsored by Ann Johnson Stewart (D), currently “Introduced” since April 7, 2025.

We track 10,590 Minnesota bills this session, 114 of them sponsored by Ann Johnson Stewart.

The bill has been recognized for its proactive approach to water resource management, aiming to ensure that large-scale projects do not compromise existing water needs. By involving state authorities early in the planning process, it seeks to streamline permitting and promote sustainable development. ([myreptracker.com](https://www.myreptracker.com/minnesota/bills/mn-2025-2026-regular-session-sf-3320?utm_source=openai))

While the bill's intent to protect water resources is commendable, some stakeholders express concerns about potential delays in project timelines due to the mandatory pre-application evaluations. There is also apprehension regarding the additional administrative burden on local governments to monitor and report such projects within a short timeframe. ([myreptracker.com](https://www.myreptracker.com/minnesota/bills/mn-2025-2026-regular-session-sf-3320?utm_source=openai))