A water use permit holder with a non-expired completion date (i.e. the time specified in the permit or, if applicable, the last approved extension of time to perfect the water right permit has not expired) may apply to amend a permit by changing the place of use, changing the location of an authorized point of diversion or appropriation (well), or by adding a point of diversion or appropriation. Under certain limited circumstances, permit holders may also change a surface water point of diversion to a nearby groundwater source. The other terms and conditions in the permit cannot be changed. The application is similar to a Permanent Transfer application except the required map does not have to be prepared by a certified water right examiner.
In reviewing an application for a permit amendment, the Department is responsible for ensuring that the permit itself will not be enlarged and that other water right holders will not be injured as a result of the proposed change.
NOTE: If the time specified in the permit or, if applicable, the last approved extension of time to perfect the water right permit will expire in 120 days or less from the date the Department receives the permit amendment application, then the Department may return the application because it may not be possible to fully process the application that quickly. A water right permit for which the specified time to perfect the water right has expired is not subject to amendment under ORS 537.211.