[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 137 (Wednesday, July 18, 2007)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 39530-39538]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-13847]



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Part III





Department of the Interior





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Bureau of Reclamation



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43 CFR Part 429



Use of Bureau of Reclamation Land, Facilities, and Waterbodies; 
Proposed Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 137 / Wednesday, July 18, 2007 / 
Proposed Rules  

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Bureau of Reclamation

43 CFR Part 429

RIN 1006-AA51


Use of Bureau of Reclamation Land, Facilities, and Waterbodies

AGENCY: Bureau of Reclamation, Interior.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

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SUMMARY: The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) proposes a rule on the 
use of Reclamation land, facilities, and waterbodies. When finalized, 
the proposed rule will supersede the current rule which was originally 
published in 1983 and partially revised in April 2006.

DATES: Submit comments by October 16, 2007.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by the number 1006-AA51, 
by any of the following methods:

--Use the Federal rulemaking Web site: http://www.regulations.gov and 
follow the instructions for submitting comments; or
--By e-mail: [email protected]. Please include the number 
1006-AA51 in the subject line of the e-mail. If you do not receive a 
confirmation that we have received your e-mail, contact Mr. Richard 
Rizzi directly at (303) 445-2900;
--By mail to: Bureau of Reclamation, Denver Federal Center, P.O. Box 
25007, Denver, CO 80225-0007, Attention: Richard Rizzi, Mail Code: 84-
53000.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Richard Rizzi, Mail Code: 84-53000; 
Bureau of Reclamation; P.O. Box 25007; Denver, CO 80225. Telephone: 
(303) 445-2900.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Background

    The rule, 43 CFR part 429, titled Procedure to Process and Recover 
the Value of Rights-of-Use and Administrative Costs Incurred In 
Permitting Such Use (current rule), established the procedures to 
recover administrative costs associated with processing ``rights-of-
use'' applications and the value of rights-of-use granted by 
Reclamation to applicants for the use of Reclamation land. Sections of 
the current rule were modified, in part, in 2006 to correlate with 43 
CFR part 423, titled Public Conduct on Bureau of Reclamation 
Facilities, Lands, and Waterbodies.
    This proposed rule addresses activities involving the possession or 
occupancy of any portion of, and the extraction or disturbance of any 
natural resources from, Reclamation land, facilities, and waterbodies. 
Regulations addressing public access to Reclamation property and 
occasional public activities such as hiking, camping, boating, and 
hunting, and closures are contained in part 423.
    The demand for use of Reclamation land, facilities, and waterbodies 
for many different kinds of activities has increased dramatically since 
Reclamation began building Federal water supply, flood control, and 
hydropower projects over 100 years ago. With increased and varied uses 
has come confusion among the potential users of our land, facilities, 
and waterbodies about the process of applying for the various types of 
uses, the charges and fees associated with such uses, and other 
concerns. The current rule does not adequately address this confusion 
nor does it address prohibited and unauthorized uses of Reclamation's 
land, facilities, and waterbodies and associated penalties.
    The Independent Offices Appropriation Act (IOAA) (31 U.S.C. 9701), 
September 13, 1982, as amended, sets forth Congress' intent that any 
use, permit, or similar thing of value provided by an agency is to be 
self-sustaining and that agencies may prescribe rules establishing 
charges for such uses. The 1993 revision of the Office of Management 
and Budget (OMB) Circular A-25 established Federal policy requiring 
administrative costs be recovered for Government services and fees for 
the use or sale of Government goods or resources also be charged. OMB 
Circular A-25 provides information on the scope and types of activities 
subject to use fees and the basis on which these fees are established. 
It also provides guidance for agencies in implementing such fees and 
charges. The use of Reclamation land, facilities, or waterbodies is a 
use of Government resources, and as such, the IOAA and OMB Circular A-
25 require Reclamation to recover the costs and fees associated with 
the use of these resources.
    Section 10 (43 U.S.C. 373) of the Reclamation Act of June 17, 1902, 
provides the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) with the authority 
to issue rules as necessary for the purposes of carrying out the 
provisions of the Act. Section 10 (43 U.S.C. 387) of the Reclamation 
Project Act of 1939 provides the Secretary the authority, in his 
discretion, to grant leases, licenses, easements, and rights-of-way. 
These two Acts provide Reclamation with the general statutory authority 
to issue rules on authorizing or prohibiting uses of Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies.
    The rule addresses:
    (a) The possession or occupancy of any portion of or the extraction 
or disturbance of any natural resource from Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies;
    (b) The procedures to follow when the proposed use involves a 
Reclamation easement;
    (c) The procedures to apply for use of Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies;
    (d) The criteria Reclamation will use to evaluate applications;
    (e) Our statutory requirements and basis for charging application 
fees, recovering administrative costs, and collecting use fees 
associated with authorized uses;
    (f) Conditions under which application fees, administrative costs, 
or use fees may be waived or reduced if determined appropriate by 
Reclamation;
    (g) Prohibited uses of Reclamation land, facilities, and 
waterbodies and how we will resolve unauthorized uses;
    (h) The required contractual terms and conditions associated with 
use authorization contracts; and
    (i) The decisions and appeals process applicable to actions taken 
under this part.

II. Revision of Existing Rules

    On December 20, 1983, Reclamation published 43 CFR part 429 titled 
Procedure to Process and Recover the Value of Rights-of-Use and 
Administrative Costs Incurred in Permitting Such Use in the Federal 
Register at 48 FR 56223. Sections of this rule were revised on April 
17, 2006, in the Federal Register at 71 FR 19802 to better correlate 
with 43 CFR part 423. The sections that were revised or added were: 
Sec.  429.1 Purpose, Sec.  429.2 Definitions, Sec.  429.3 Establishment 
of the value of rights-of-use; Sec.  429.6 Applications for rights-of-
use, Sec.  429.12 Applicability, and Sec.  429.13 General Restrictions.
    When the public comment period closes on this rule and Reclamation 
considers comments and incorporates them, where appropriate, the final 
rule will be published in the Federal Register. That final rule, titled 
Use of Bureau of Reclamation Land, Facilities, and Waterbodies, will 
supersede the 1983 version and its 2006 modifications in their 
entirety.

III. Distribution Table

    The following table indicates each section of the original 1983 
rule, as

[[Page 39531]]

modified in 2006, and where each was incorporated into or was removed 
from the rule:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Old section                          New section
------------------------------------------------------------------------
429.1............................  429.1.
429.2(a)-(n).....................  429.2.
429.3(a).........................  429.23.
429.3(b).........................  429.33(a) and (c).
429.3(c).........................  429.33(a) and (b).
 429.4...........................   429.26.
429.5............................  Removed.
429.6............................  429.7(b); 429.12; and 429.14.
 429.6(a)........................  429.10.
429.6(a)(1)-(3)..................  Removed. Now contained in Application
                                    Forms.
429.6(b).........................  429.16; 429.20-429.22; and 429.26.
429.6(c)(1)-(4)..................   429.26.
429.6(d)(1)-(4)..................  429.13(a) and (b).
429.6(e).........................  429.19; 429.22.
429.6(f).........................  429.23-429.25.
429.6(g).........................  Removed. See Preamble.
429.7(a).........................  429.27-429.30.
429.7(b).........................  429.6.
429.7(c).........................  Removed.
429.7(d).........................  429.28(a)(3).
429.7(e).........................  429.28(a)(1).
429.7(f).........................  Removed.
429.8............................  429.28(a)(2), (3), and (4).
429.9(a).........................  429.28(a)(1).
429.9(b).........................  429.28(b).
429.10(a)........................  429.34(a) and (b); 429.35(a), (b),
                                    and (c).
429.10(b)........................   429.36(a) and (b).
429.11...........................  Removed.
429.12 (a).......................  429.1; 429.3-429.6.
429.12(b)........................  429.4(a).
429.12(c)........................  429.26.
429.12(d)........................  429.4(g).
429.12(e)........................  Removed.
429.13...........................  429.1; 429.3.
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IV. Procedural Requirements

1. Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Order (E.O.) 12866)

    OMB has determined that this rule is not a significant rule and has 
not reviewed this rule under the requirements of E.O. 12866. 
Reclamation has evaluated the impacts of this rule as required by E.O. 
12866 and has determined that it is not a significant regulatory 
action. The results of our evaluation are below:
    (a) This rule will not have an effect of $100 million or more on 
the economy. It would not adversely affect in any material way the 
economy, productivity, competition, jobs, environment, public health or 
safety, or State, local, and tribal governments or communities. 
Although the current rule covered only Reclamation lands, this rule is 
expanded to explicitly incorporate uses of Reclamation facilities and 
waterbodies. This expansion, however, does not adversely affect, in any 
material way, the aforementioned sectors or governments. Further, the 
current rule requires collecting an initial deposit fee of $200, the 
recovery of additional administrative costs in excess of the initial 
deposit fee, and a fee for the use of Reclamation land. This rule 
reduces the initial deposit fee from $200 (all but $50 refundable under 
specific circumstances in the current rule) to a nonrefundable $100 fee 
(referred to now as the ``application fee'' in the rule). The rule does 
not change the requirement for full cost recovery of additional 
administrative costs in excess of the $100 nonrefundable application 
fee or the requirement to collect the fee for use of Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies. Like the current rule, this rule provides 
for waivers or reductions of costs and fees under unique circumstances 
as determined to be appropriate by Reclamation or currently listed in 
OMB Circular A-25.
    (b) This rule would not create a serious inconsistency or otherwise 
interfere with an action taken or planned by another agency. This rule 
requires the use of the Standard Form (SF) 299, Application for 
Transportation and Utility Systems and Facilities on Federal Lands, 
under E.O. 13327. The purpose of E.O. 13327 is to improve broadband 
deployment across Federal land. This rule also requires the use of Form 
7-2540, Bureau of Reclamation Right-of-Use Application Form, for all 
other requested uses.
    (c) This rule does not alter the budgetary effects of entitlements, 
grants, user fees, concessions, loan programs, water contracts, 
management agreements, or the rights and obligations of their 
recipients.
    (d) This rule does not raise any novel legal or policy issues. The 
recovery of administrative fees and charging of application and use 
fees are required by the IOAA, OMB Circular A-25, and the current rule.

2. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Department of the Interior (Interior) certifies that this 
document will not have a significant economic effect on a substantial 
number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 
601, et seq.). This rule does not impose a requirement for small 
businesses to report or keep records on any of the requirements 
contained in this rule. A small business's wish to apply to use 
Reclamation land, facilities, or waterbodies is strictly voluntary. One 
of the purposes of this rule is to provide small business applicants 
and others with the requirements they must follow when applying for 
such a use. An Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis is not required 
and, accordingly, a Small Entity Compliance Guide is not required.

3. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    This rule is not a major rule under the Small Business Regulatory 
Enforcement Fairness Act (5 U.S.C. 804(2)). This rule:
    (a) Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million 
or more. There are no major changes in the costs or fees charged to 
applicants.
    (b) Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for 
consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, local, or tribal 
government agencies, or geographic regions. It is anticipated that this 
rule will not result in significant increases in administrative costs 
or use fees for any one applicant, but it will clarify for the public 
the basis for determining such costs and fees.
    (c) Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, 
employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of 
United States-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based 
enterprises. The cost to the private sector requesting use of 
Reclamation land, facilities, or waterbodies is a small fraction of a 
percent of an individual entity's total cost of doing business. Under 
this rule, such requests are made on a voluntary basis.

4. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    This rule does not impose an unfunded mandate or a requirement to 
expend monies on the part of State, local, or tribal governments or 
communities, or the private sector of $100 million or more annually. 
This rule does not have a significant or unique effect on State, local, 
or tribal governments or communities, or the private sector. Requests 
from any of these entities to use Reclamation land, facilities, and 
waterbodies are strictly voluntary. If a requested use is authorized by 
Reclamation, the recovery of administrative costs and the payment of 
use fees associated with such use are required by law, OMB Circular, 
and regulation. There are provisions to allow a reduction or waiver of 
such costs and fees, at Reclamation's discretion, when specific 
criteria are met. Reclamation is not imposing a duty, requirement, or 
mandate on State, local, or tribal governments or communities, or the 
private sector to request such uses. Thus, a statement containing 
information required by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C.1531 
et seq.) is not required.

[[Page 39532]]

5. Takings (E.O. 12630 and E.O. 13406)

    Under the criteria in E.O. 12630 and E.O 13406, this rule does not 
have any implications of takings of property rights. This rule sets 
forth the requirements for applying to use Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies. It also clarifies the basis for charging 
application and use fees, and for the recovery of administrative costs 
under the requirements of the IOAA and OMB Circular A-25. A Takings 
Implication Assessment is not required.

6. Federalism (E.O. 13132)

    Under the criteria in E.O. 13132, the rule does not have any 
federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism 
Assessment. The rule is not associated with, nor will it have 
substantial direct effects on the States, on the relationship between 
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government. A 
Federalism Assessment is not required.

7. Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)

    This rule complies with the requirements of E.O. 12988. 
Specifically, this rule:
    (a) Does not unduly burden the judicial system;
    (b) Meets the criteria of section 3(a) requiring that all 
regulations be reviewed to eliminate errors and ambiguity and be 
written to minimize litigation; and
    (c) Meets the criteria of section 3(b)(2) requiring that all 
regulations be written in clear language and contain clear legal 
standards.

8. Consultation With Indian Tribes (E.O. 13175)

    Under the criteria of E.O. 13175, Reclamation has evaluated this 
rule and determined that it would have no substantial effects on 
federally recognized Indian Tribes. This rule does not apply to land 
under the sovereign ownership of federally recognized Indian Tribes.

9. Paperwork Reduction Act

    This rule does require information collection from 10 or more 
applicants and a submission under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) is 
required. However, the information collection requirements associated 
with this rule have been previously submitted to OMB for review and 
have received approval under the requirements of the PRA. The SF 299, 
Application for Transportation and Utility Systems and Facilities on 
Federal Lands (used for access across our land, facilities, and 
waterbodies), was authorized by OMB No. 1004-0189, expiring on November 
30, 2008. OMB also has approved the information collection in this rule 
(using the Bureau of Reclamation Right-of-Use Application Form 7-2540) 
and has assigned approval number 1006-0003, expiring on March 31, 2009. 
We estimate the burden associated with this latter information 
collection to be 2 hours per application. Reclamation uses the 
information provided by applicants to determine the nature of the 
requested use and whether the requested use of our land, facilities, or 
waterbodies interferes with project operations or project security, or 
may create other issues. The information provided on the applications 
is also used to ensure, where appropriate and applicable, the technical 
and financial resources of the applicant are sufficient to complete the 
construction of the infrastructure or project.

10. National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

    This rule does not constitute a major Federal action and would not 
have a significant effect on the quality of the human environment. 
Therefore, this rule does not require the preparation of an 
environmental assessment or environmental impact statement under the 
requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), and its regulations.

11. Data Quality Act

    In developing this rule, there was no need to conduct or use a 
study, experiment, or survey requiring peer review under the Data 
Quality Act (Pub. L. 106-554).

12. Effects on the Energy Supply (E.O. 13211)

    This rule is not a significant energy action under the definition 
in the E.O. 13211. A Statement of Energy Effects is not required.

13. Clarity of This Regulation

    We are required by E.O. 12866 and 12988, and by the Presidential 
Memorandum of June 1, 1998, to write all rules in plain language. This 
means each rule we publish must:

--Be logically organized;
--Use the active voice to address readers directly;
--Use clear language rather than jargon;
--Be divided into short sections and sentences; and
--Use lists and tables wherever possible.

    If you feel we have not met these requirements, please send 
comments to Reclamation as instructed in the ADDRESSES section above. 
Please make your comments as specific as possible, referencing specific 
sections and how they could be improved. For example, ``section XXX.XX 
could be more clearly written'', or ``the first sentence in section 
XXX.XX(a) is too long'', or ``the data in section XXX.XX should be 
placed in a table.''

14. Public Comments

    Before including your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, 
or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should 
be aware that your entire comment--including your personal identifying 
information--may be made publicly available at any time. While you can 
ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying 
information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be 
able to do so.

List of Subjects in 43 CFR Part 429

    Administrative practice and procedures, Public lands, Reclamation, 
Recreation and recreation areas, Land rights-of-way.

    Dated: April 26, 2007.
Mark Limbaugh,
Assistant Secretary, Water and Science.

    Editorial Note: This document was received at the Office of the 
Federal Register on July 12, 2007.
    For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Bureau of Reclamation 
proposes to revise 43 CFR part 429 as follows:

PART 429--USE OF BUREAU OF RECLAMATION LAND, FACILITIES, AND 
WATERBODIES

Subpart A--Purpose, Definitions, and Applicability
Sec.
429.1 What is the purpose of this part?
429.2 What definitions are used in this part?
429.3 What types of uses require an authorization under this part?
429.4 What types of uses do not require authorization under this 
part?
429.5 Who is authorized to issue use authorizations under this part?
429.6 When must water user organizations approve use authorizations?
Subpart B--Proposed Uses Involving Reclamation Easements
429.7 Can I use land not owned by Reclamation where Reclamation has 
an easement?
429.8 Is there a fee for uses involving a Reclamation easement?

[[Page 39533]]

Subpart C--Requesting Authorization to Use Reclamation Land, 
Facilities, and Waterbodies
429.9 What should I do before filing an application?
429.10 What application form should I use?
429.11 Where can I get the application forms?
429.12 Where do I file my application?
429.13 How long will the application review process take?
429.14 What criteria will Reclamation consider when reviewing 
applications?
429.15 Is Reclamation required to issue a use authorization?
Subpart D--Application Fees and Administrative Costs
429.16 How much is the application fee and when should it be paid?
429.17 When will Reclamation collect administrative costs?
429.18 When do I have to pay the administrative costs?
429.19 What happens if the initial estimate for administrative costs 
is insufficient?
429.20 Can I get a detailed explanation of the administrative costs?
429.21 If I overpay Reclamation's administrative costs, can I get a 
refund?
429.22 Can Reclamation charge me additional administrative costs 
after I receive a use authorization?
Subpart E--Use Fees
29.23 How does Reclamation determine use fees?
429.24 When should I pay my use fee?
429.25 How long do I have to submit my payment for the use fee and 
accept the offered use authorization?
Subpart F--Reductions or Waivers of Application Fees, Administrative 
Costs, and Use Fees
429.26 When may Reclamation reduce or waive costs or fees?
Subpart G--Terms and Conditions of Use Authorizations
429.27 What general information appears in use authorizations?
429.28 What terms and conditions apply to all use authorizations?
429.29 What other terms and conditions will be included in my use 
authorization?
429.30 May use authorizations be transferred or assigned to others?
Subpart H--Prohibited and Unauthorized Uses of Reclamation Land, 
Facilities, and Waterbodies
429.31 What uses are prohibited on Reclamation land, facilities, and 
waterbodies?
429.32 How will Reclamation address existing uses which are 
otherwise prohibited?
429.33 What are the consequences for using Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies without authorization?
Subpart I--Decisions and Appeals
429.34 Who is the decisionmaker for Reclamation's final 
determinations?
429.35 May I appeal Reclamation's final determination?
429.36 May I appeal the Commissioner's decision?
429.37 Does interest accrue on monies owed to the United States 
during my appeal process?

    Authority: 43 U.S.C. 373; 43 U.S.C. 373b, 43 U.S.C. 387; 43 CFR 
21; Pub. Law 108-447, Title VIII; 31 U.S.C. 9701, as amended.

Subpart A--Purpose, Definitions, and Applicability


Sec.  429.1  What is the purpose of this part?

    The purpose of this part is to notify the public that any 
possession or occupancy of any portion of, and the extraction or 
disturbance of, any natural resources from Reclamation land, 
facilities, or waterbodies are prohibited without written authorization 
from Reclamation, unless excepted as listed in Sec.  429.4 of this 
part. This part describes:
    (a) How to apply to Reclamation for a use authorization to allow 
your activity on Reclamation land, facilities, and waterbodies;
    (b) How we review and process your application, including the 
criteria for approval or denial of your application;
    (c) The requirement for collection of application and use fees and 
the recovery of administrative costs;
    (d) How we determine and collect costs and fees;
    (e) Prohibited uses on Reclamation land, facilities, and 
waterbodies;
    (f) The process and penalties associated with resolution of 
unauthorized uses; and
    (g) How to appeal an action or determination made under this part.


Sec.  429.2  What definitions are used in this part?

    The following definitions are used in this rule:
    Administrative costs means all costs incurred by Reclamation in 
processing your application and all costs associated with evaluating, 
issuing, monitoring, and terminating your use authorization on 
Reclamation land, facilities, and waterbodies. Administrative costs are 
distinct and separate from application and use fees and typically 
include, but are not limited to:
    (1) Determining the use fee;
    (2) Evaluating and documenting environmental and cultural resources 
compliance;
    (3) Performing engineering review;
    (4) Contract preparation; and
    (5) Personnel and indirect costs directly associated with these 
actions.
    Applicant means you as any person or entity (such as a private 
citizen, business, non-governmental organization, or public entity, 
Tribe, or foreign government) who submits an application requesting use 
of Reclamation land, facilities, and waterbodies.
    Application means either Form 7-2540 or SF 299. The choice of 
application form is dependent on the type of use requested.
    Application fee means a $100 nonrefundable charge, which you must 
submit with your application to cover the costs of our initial review 
of your request. Application fees are distinct and separate from 
administrative costs and use fees.
    Commissioner means the senior executive of the Bureau of 
Reclamation, Department of the Interior.
    Consent document means a use authorization listing conditions which 
will prevent unreasonable interference with our easement rights.
    Cultural resource means any prehistoric, historic, architectural, 
sacred, or traditional cultural property and associated objects and 
documents that are of interest to archaeology, anthropology, history, 
or other associated disciplines. Cultural resources include 
archaeological resources, historic properties, traditional cultural 
properties, sacred sites, and cultural landscapes that are associated 
with human activity or occupation.
    Environmental compliance means complying with the requirements of 
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., 
its regulations, and other related laws.
    Form 7-2540 means the Bureau of Reclamation Right-of-Use 
Application form required for all proposed uses of Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies, except those associated with construction 
and/or placement of transportation, communication, and utility systems 
and facilities.
    Grantee means you as the recipient or holder of a use authorization 
regardless of the contractual format.
    Interior means the United States Department of the Interior.
    Part 423 of this chapter means Title 43 of the Code of Federal 
Regulations, part 423, which is titled Public Conduct on Bureau of 
Reclamation Facilities, Lands, and Waterbodies.
    Possession or occupancy and possess or occupy mean to control, use, 
or reside on Reclamation land, facilities, or waterbodies.
    Private exclusive recreational or residential use means any such 
use that excludes other appropriate public uses or users for extended 
periods of time or which creates the perception of such exclusion. This 
includes, but is not

[[Page 39534]]

limited to, boat docks, cabin sites, residences, trailers, manufactured 
or mobile homes, structures, roads, or other improvements as determined 
by Reclamation.
    Public Entity means States, political subdivisions or agencies 
thereof; public and quasi-governmental authorities and agencies; and 
agencies of the Federal Government.
    Reclamation means the Bureau of Reclamation, United States 
Department of the Interior.
    Reclamation facility means any facility under our jurisdiction. The 
term includes, but is not limited to: buildings, canals, dams, ditches, 
drains, fish and wildlife facilities, laterals, powerplants, pumping 
plants, recreation facilities, roads, switchyards, transmission and 
telecommunication lines, and warehouses.
    Reclamation land means any land under the jurisdiction of, or 
administered by, Reclamation and may include, but is not limited to:
    (1) All land acquired by Reclamation through purchase, 
condemnation, exchange, or donation for Reclamation project and water 
related purposes;
    (2) All land withdrawn by Reclamation from the public domain for 
Reclamation project or water related purposes; and
    (3) All interests in land acquired by Reclamation, including 
easements and rights exercised by the United States under the 1890 
Canal Act (43 U.S.C. 945).
    Reclamation law means the Reclamation Act of June 17, 1902 (32 
Stat. 388, 43 U.S.C. 371, et seq.), and all Acts which supplement or 
amend the 1902 Act.
    Reclamation project means any land, facilities, or waterbodies used 
for water supply, water delivery, flood control, hydropower, or other 
authorized purposes including fish, wildlife, and recreation 
administered by Reclamation under Federal reclamation laws.
    Reclamation waterbodies means any body of water situated on 
Reclamation land and under Reclamation jurisdiction. Examples of 
Reclamation waterbodies include, but are not limited to, reservoirs, 
lakes, and impoundments.
    Regional Director means any one of the five representatives of the 
Commissioner, or their delegates, who are responsible for managing 
their respective region's land, facilities, and waterbodies and for the 
decisions made under this part.
    Standard Form (SF) 299 means the form titled Application for 
Transportation and Utility Systems and Facilities on Federal Lands used 
when requesting permission for construction and/or placement of 
transportation, communication, and utility systems and facilities.
    Unauthorized use means use of Reclamation land, facilities, and 
waterbodies without proper authorization.
    Use authorization means a written contract that defines the terms 
and conditions under which we will allow you to use Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies. Use authorizations can take the form of 
easements, leases, licenses, permits, and consent documents. This 
contract is also referred to as a ``right-of-use'' in part 423 of this 
chapter.
    Use fee means the amount due to Reclamation for the use of Federal 
land, facilities, or waterbodies under our jurisdiction or control. Use 
fees are distinct and separate from application fees and administrative 
costs.
    Valuation means the method used to establish the fee for a use 
authorization by appraisal, waiver valuation, or other sound or 
generally accepted business practice.
    We, us, or our mean the Bureau of Reclamation.
    You or I mean an applicant, grantee, or unauthorized user.


Sec.  429.3  What types of uses require an authorization under this 
part?

    Possession or occupancy, or extraction or removal of natural 
resources from Reclamation land, facilities, or waterbodies require a 
use authorization in accordance with this part 429. Typical uses of or 
activities on Reclamation land, facilities, or waterbodies regulated by 
this part include, but are not limited to:
    (a) Commercial filming and photography;
    (b) Commercial guiding and outfitting;
    (c) Commercial or organized sporting events;
    (d) Grazing, farming, and other agricultural uses;
    (e) Infrastructure, such as transportation, telecommunications, 
utilities, and pipelines;
    (f) Organized recreational activities, public gatherings, and other 
special events;
    (g) Removal of, or exploration for, sand, gravel, and other mineral 
resources;
    (h) Timber harvesting, or removal of commercial forest products or 
other vegetative resources; and
    (i) Any other uses covered by Executive Orders, Departmental and 
Reclamation policies, or otherwise deemed appropriate by Reclamation, 
subject to the exclusions listed in Sec.  429.4.


Sec.  429.4  What types of uses do not require authorization under this 
part?

    (a) Individual, non-commercial use of our land, facilities, and 
waterbodies for occasional activities such as hiking, camping for 
periods of 14 days or less, sightseeing, picnicking, hunting, swimming, 
boating, and fishing, consistent with applicable laws, regulations and 
policies. Public conduct associated with these activities is governed 
by part 423 of this chapter;
    (b) Activities at sites managed by non-Federal managing partners 
under Public Law 89-72, titled Federal Water Project Recreation Act, 
July 9, 1965; or activities managed by other Federal agencies or 
Interior bureaus by agreement or other authority;
    (c) Activities at sites directly managed by Reclamation where fees 
or fee schedules are established for general public recreation use;
    (d) Uses authorized under concession contracts on Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies;
    (e) Reclamation contracts for water supply or water operations;
    (f) Operation and maintenance activities on Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies authorized by contracts with water user 
organizations or Reclamation contractors;
    (g) Agreements and real property interests granted for the 
replacement or relocation of facilities, such as highways, railroads, 
telecommunication, or transmission lines or infrastructure governed by 
Section 14 of the Reclamation Project Act of August 4, 1939 (43 U.S.C. 
389). Payments to equalize land values may still be required and 
administrative costs may still be recovered;
    (h) Activities authorized under other specific statutes or 
regulations.


Sec.  429.5  Who is authorized to issue use authorizations under this 
part?

    Only Reclamation is authorized to issue use authorizations under 
this part. Reclamation water user organizations and other non-Federal 
entities operating Reclamation projects under project operation and 
maintenance contracts may not issue use authorizations under this part, 
unless specifically authorized by statute or regulation.


Sec.  429.6  When must water user organizations approve use 
authorizations?

    Water user organizations under contract obligation for repayment of 
the project or division must approve use authorizations for easements 
and rights-of-way for periods in excess of 25 years. This requirement 
does not apply to any other type of use authorizations; however, such 
approval is frequently sought to avoid potential conflicts.

[[Page 39535]]

Subpart B--Proposed Uses Involving Reclamation Easements


Sec.  429.7  Can I use land not owned by Reclamation where Reclamation 
has an easement?

    (a) Perhaps, provided your proposed use does not unreasonably 
interfere with Reclamation's easement.
    (b) You must request and receive a consent document from the local 
Reclamation office using either SF 299 or Form 7-2540 in accordance 
with subpart C of this part. If we determine that your requested use 
will not unreasonably interfere with Reclamation's easement, a consent 
document may be issued to you. The consent document will contain the 
conditions with which you must comply to ensure your use will not 
unreasonably interfere with Reclamation's easement.
    (c) If you are not the owner of the land, you must also secure the 
permission of the landowner for your requested use of the area covered 
by Reclamation's easement.


Sec.  429.8  Is there a fee for uses involving a Reclamation easement?

    We will not charge a use fee for a consent document. However, 
depending upon the complexity of your requested use and issues 
associated with it, we may charge an application fee and administrative 
costs, unless waived in accordance with subpart F of this part.

Subpart C--Requesting Authorization to Use Reclamation Land, 
Facilities, and Waterbodies


Sec.  429.9  What should I do before filing an application?

    Before filing an application, it is important that you contact the 
local Reclamation office to discuss your proposed use. This discussion 
can help expedite your application process.


Sec.  429.10  What application form should I use?

    You must use one of the following application forms depending on 
the nature of your requested use:
    (a) Use SF 299 to request a use authorization for the placement, 
construction, and use of energy, transportation, water, and 
telecommunication systems and facilities on or across all Federal 
property including Reclamation land, facilities, or waterbodies.
    Examples of such uses are:
    (1) Canals;
    (2) Communication towers;
    (3) Fiber-optics cable;
    (4) Pipelines;
    (5) Roads;
    (6) Telephone lines; and
    (7) Utilities and utility corridors.
    (b) Use Form 7-2540 to request any other type of use authorization. 
Examples of such uses are:
    (1) Commercial filming and photography;
    (2) Commercial guiding and outfitting;
    (3) Commercial or organized sporting events;
    (4) Grazing, farming, and other agricultural uses;
    (5) Organized recreational activities, public gatherings, and other 
special events;
    (6) Removal of, or exploration for, sand, gravel, and other mineral 
materials;
    (7) Timber harvesting, or removal of commercial forest products or 
other vegetative resources; and
    (8) Any other uses deemed appropriate by Reclamation.
    (c) Application forms may not be required where Reclamation 
solicits competitive bids.


Sec.  429.11  Where can I get the application forms?

    Both forms can be obtained from any Reclamation office or from our 
official internet Web site at http://www.usbr.gov. These forms contain 
specific instructions for application submission and describe 
information that you must furnish. However, when you submit either form 
to your local Reclamation office for review, the form must contain your 
original signature as the applicant.


Sec.  429.12  Where do I file my application?

    File your completed and signed application, including the $100 
nonrefundable application fee, with the Reclamation office having 
jurisdiction over the land, facility, or waterbody associated with your 
request. Reclamation office locations may be found on http://www.usbr.gov, the official Reclamation internet web site.


Sec.  429.13  How long will the application review process take?

    (a) We will acknowledge in writing our receipt of your completed 
and signed application and application fee within 30 calendar days of 
receipt. Reclamation may request additional information needed to 
process your application, such as legal land descriptions and detailed 
construction specifications.
    (b) The processing time depends upon the complexity of your 
requested use, issues associated with it, and the need for additional 
information from you.
    (c) Should your requested use be denied at any time during the 
review process, we will notify you in writing of the basis for the 
denial.


Sec.  429.14  What criteria will Reclamation consider when reviewing 
applications?

    Reclamation will consider the following criteria when reviewing 
applications:
    (a) Compatibility with authorized project purposes, project 
operations, safety, and security;
    (b) Environmental, natural and cultural resource impacts;
    (c) Compatibility with Reclamation land use plans;
    (d) Conflicts with Federal policies and initiatives;
    (e) Public health and safety;
    (f) Availability of other reasonable alternatives; and
    (g) Best interests of the United States and impacts to other 
parties.


Sec.  429.15  Is Reclamation required to issue a use authorization?

    No. The issuance of a use authorization is at Reclamation's 
discretion. Not all requests will be authorized. If issued, we will 
provide only the least estate, right, or possessory interest needed to 
accommodate the approved use.

Subpart D--Application Fees and Administrative Costs


Sec.  429.16  How much is the application fee and when should it be 
paid?

    You must remit a nonrefundable payment of $100 to cover costs 
associated with our initial review of your application, unless it is 
waived pursuant to subpart F of this part. This review will determine 
if your requested use appears to be appropriate and not likely to 
interfere with Reclamation project purposes or operations.


Sec.  429.17  When will Reclamation collect administrative costs?

    Reclamation will collect, in advance, its administrative costs for 
processing your application, except as provided under subpart F of this 
part.


Sec.  429.18  When do I have to pay the administrative costs?

    (a) Following the initial review, we will notify you in writing 
whether your application appears to be appropriate for further 
processing. At this time, we will give you an initial estimate of 
administrative costs required to continue processing your application.
    (b) You must pay these initial, estimated administrative costs in 
advance before we can continue to process your application, unless you 
are granted a waiver of administrative costs under subpart F of this 
part. If payment

[[Page 39536]]

is not received within 90 days after we provide the estimate to you, we 
may close your file. If this occurs and you later wish to proceed, you 
must submit both a new application and another $100 nonrefundable 
application fee.


Sec.  429.19  What happens if the initial estimate for administrative 
costs is insufficient?

    If the initial estimate to cover Reclamation's administrative costs 
is found to be insufficient, Reclamation will notify you in writing of 
the additional amount needed. You must pay the amount requested before 
Reclamation will continue processing your application.


Sec.  429.20  Can I get a detailed explanation of the administrative 
costs?

    Yes, you are entitled to receive an explanation of all 
administrative costs relevant to your specific application. You must 
request this information in writing from the Reclamation office where 
you submitted your application.


Sec.  429.21  If I overpay Reclamation's administrative costs, can I 
get a refund?

    If, in reviewing your application, we use all the monies you have 
paid, you will not receive a refund regardless of whether you receive a 
use authorization. If the money we collect from you exceeds our 
administrative costs, we will refund the excess amount consistent with 
Reclamation's financial policies.


Sec.  429.22  Can Reclamation charge me additional administrative costs 
after I receive a use authorization?

    (a) After you receive your use authorization, we may charge you for 
additional administrative costs we incur for activities such as:
    (1) Monitoring your authorized use over time to ensure compliance 
with the terms and conditions of your use authorization; and
    (2) Periodic analysis of your long-term use to adjust your use fee 
to reflect current conditions.
    (b) If we do not receive your payment within 90 days after we 
provide you with the estimate, we may take action to terminate your use 
authorization.

Subpart E--Use Fees


Sec.  429.23  How does Reclamation determine use fees?

    The use fee is based on a valuation or by competitive bidding. Use 
fees may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by Reclamation to reflect 
current conditions, as provided in the use authorization.


Sec.  429.24  When should I pay my use fee?

    (a) If we offer you a use authorization, you must pay the use fee 
in advance, unless we grant you a waiver under subpart F of this part.
    (b) Your use authorization will clearly state the use fee. Should 
periodic payments apply, your use authorization will also describe when 
you should pay those periodic use fees.


Sec.  429.25  How long do I have to submit my payment for the use fee 
and accept the offered use authorization?

    You have 90 days to sign and return the use authorization and 
required fees, otherwise we may consider the offer to be rejected by 
you and your file may be closed. If this occurs and you later wish to 
proceed, you must submit a new application and another $100 
nonrefundable application fee. You may not commence your use of 
Reclamation's land, facilities, or waterbodies until Reclamation has 
issued a use authorization to you. A use authorization will only be 
issued upon receipt by Reclamation of all required costs and fees, and 
the use authorization signed by you.

Subpart F--Reductions or Waivers of Application Fees, 
Administrative Costs, and Use Fees


Sec.  429.26  When may Reclamation reduce or waive costs or fees?

    (a) At its sole discretion, Reclamation may waive the application 
fee, or waive or reduce administrative costs or the use fee as 
indicated by a [check] in the following table:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Situations where costs and fees may be reduced or waived 3                     Administrative
           if determined appropriate by reclamation            Application fee       costs           Use fee
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) The use is a courtesy to a foreign government or if               [check]          [check]          [check]
 comparable fees are set on a reciprocal basis with a foreign
 government..................................................
(2) The use is so minor or short term that the cost of                [check]          [check]          [check]
 collecting fees is equal to or greater than the value of the
 use.........................................................
(3) The use will benefit the general public with no specific          [check]          [check]          [check]
 entity or group of beneficiaries readily identifiable.......
(4) Applicant is a public entity or Tribe....................         [check]          [check]          [check]
(5) Applicant is a non-profit or educational entity and the           [check]          [check]          [check]
 use provides a general public benefit.......................
(6) Applicant is a rural electric association or municipal            [check]          [check]          [check]
 utility or cooperative......................................
(7) The use directly supports United States' programs or              [check]          [check]          [check]
 projects....................................................
(8) The use secures a reciprocal land use of equal or greater         [check]          [check]          [check]
 value to the United States..................................
(9) Applicant for a consent document is the underlying owner          [check]          [check]              \1\
 of the property subject to Reclamation's easement...........
(10) The use is issued under competitive bidding.............         [check]          [check]              \2\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Not applicable.
\2\ Set by Bid.

    (b) When a statute, executive order, or court order authorizes the 
use and requires specific treatment of administrative cost recovery and 
collection of use fees associated with that use, that requirement will 
be followed by Reclamation.

Subpart G--Terms and Conditions of Use Authorizations


Sec.  429.27  What general information appears in use authorizations?

    Each use authorization will contain:
    (a) An adequate description of the land, facilities, or waterbodies 
where the use will occur;
    (b) A description of the specific use being authorized together 
with applicable restrictions or conditions that must be adhered to;
    (c) The conditions under which the use authorization may be 
renewed, terminated, amended, assigned or transferred, and/or have the 
use fee adjusted; and
    (d) Primary points of contact and other terms and conditions.

[[Page 39537]]

Sec.  429.28  What terms and conditions apply to all use 
authorizations?

    (a) By accepting a use authorization under this part, you agree to 
comply with and be bound by the following terms and conditions during 
all construction, operation, maintenance, use, and termination 
activities:
    (1) The grantee agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the United 
States, its employees, agents, and assigns from any loss or damage and 
from any liability on account of personal injury, property damage, or 
claims for personal injury or death arising out of the grantee's 
activities under any use authorization.
    (2) A reservation in favor of the United States, acting through 
Reclamation, Department of the Interior, of the prior rights to 
construct, operate, and maintain public works now or hereafter 
authorized by the Congress without liability for severance or other 
damage to the grantee's work.
    (3) Reclamation may, at any time and at no cost or liability to the 
United States, unilaterally terminate the use authorization if 
Reclamation determines that:
    (i) The use has become incompatible with authorized project 
purposes or a higher public use is identified;
    (ii) Termination is necessary for operational needs of the project; 
or
    (iii) There has been a natural disaster, a national emergency, a 
need arising from security requirements, or an immediate and overriding 
threat to the public health and safety.
    (4) Reclamation may, at any time and at no cost or liability to the 
United States, unilaterally terminate any use authorization if 
Reclamation determines that the grantee has failed to use the use 
authorization for its intended purpose. Further, failure to construct 
or use for any continuous 2-year period may constitute a presumption of 
abandonment of the requested use and cause termination of the use 
authorization.
    (5) Failure to comply with all applicable Federal, State, and local 
laws, regulations, ordinances, or terms and conditions of any use 
authorization, or to obtain any required permits or authorizations, may 
result in termination of the use authorization.
    (b) To meet local and special conditions, the Regional Director, 
upon advice of the Solicitor, may modify these terms and conditions 
with respect to the contents of the use authorization.


Sec.  429.29  What other terms and conditions will be included in my 
use authorization?

    Reclamation will include additional terms and conditions or 
requirements that are determined necessary to meet local, 
environmental, cultural resource, and other legal requirements and 
conditions to protect the interests of the United States.


Sec.  429.30  May use authorizations be transferred or assigned to 
others?

    Your use authorization may not be transferred or assigned to others 
without prior written approval of Reclamation, unless specifically 
provided for in your use authorization. Should you wish to transfer or 
assign your use authorization to another individual or entity, please 
contact the Reclamation office that issued your use authorization.

Subpart H--Prohibited and Unauthorized Uses of Reclamation Land, 
Facilities, and Waterbodies


Sec.  429.31  What uses are prohibited on Reclamation land, facilities, 
and waterbodies?

    Reclamation prohibits any use that would:
    (a) Not comply with part 423 of this chapter; or
    (b) Result in new private exclusive recreation or residential use 
of Reclamation land, facilities, or waterbodies, or the perception 
thereof. Such prohibited uses include, but are not limited to:
    (1) Cabins, residences, outbuildings, and related structures, and 
associated landscaping, patios, decks, and porches;
    (2) Boat houses, docks, moorings, and launch ramps;
    (3) Floating structures or buildings, including moored vessels used 
as residences or business sites;
    (4) Private sites for such activities as: hunting, fishing, 
camping, and picnicking (other than transitory uses allowed under part 
423 of this chapter); and
    (5) Access to private land, facilities, or structures when other 
reasonable alternative access is available or can be obtained.


Sec.  429.32  How will Reclamation address existing uses which are 
otherwise prohibited?

    (a) Existing use authorizations for private cabin sites or 
substantial improvements, as defined by part 21 of this title, will be 
administered in accordance with that part. Any renewals will be 
reviewed by the Commissioner's Office and approved, where appropriate.
    (b) Other private exclusive recreational or residential uses of 
Reclamation land, facilities, and waterbodies may exist. When 
authorizations for these uses expire, Reclamation generally will not 
renew them. Rare exceptions may be authorized and use authorizations 
issued with the approval of the Commissioner's Office.
    (c) Prohibited existing uses which are not authorized under 
paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section will be administered under Sec.  
429.33.


Sec.  429.33  What are the consequences for using Reclamation land, 
facilities, and waterbodies without authorization?

    (a) Unauthorized use of Reclamation land, facilities, or 
waterbodies is a trespass against the United States. You may be subject 
to legal action including criminal prosecution as described in part 423 
of this chapter. A criminal conviction could result in a fine and/or 
imprisonment for up to 6 months in accordance with 43 U.S.C. 373b(b).
    (b) Reclamation may seek to collect the following:
    (1) All administrative costs incurred by Reclamation in resolving 
the unauthorized use;
    (2) All costs of removing structures, materials, improvements, or 
any other real or personal property;
    (3) All costs of rehabilitation of the land, facilities, or 
waterbodies as required by Reclamation.
    (4) The use fee that would have applied had your use been 
authorized from the date your unauthorized use began, up to a total of 
6 years; and
    (5) Interest accrued on the use fee from the date your unauthorized 
use began, up to a total of 6 years.
    (c) As an unauthorized user, you will receive a written notice in 
which Reclamation will outline the steps you need to perform to cease 
your unauthorized use.
    (d) If appropriate, you will receive a final determination letter 
detailing the applicable costs and fees, as set forth under (b) above, 
which must be paid to Reclamation for your unauthorized use. Payment 
must be made within 30 days unless we extend this deadline in writing. 
Failure to make timely payment may result in administrative or legal 
action being taken against you.
    (e) Reclamation will generally not issue a use authorization to you 
for an existing unauthorized use, and we may deny any other future use 
applications because of this behavior. As noted at Sec.  429.15, use 
authorizations are always discretionary, and we are never required to 
issue one.
    (f) If, however, your unauthorized use is deemed by Reclamation to 
be an unintentional mistake, we will consider issuing a use 
authorization provided that you qualify and, in addition to the normal 
costs, you agree to pay the following:
    (1) The use fee that would have been owed from the date your 
unauthorized use began, up to a total of 6 years; and

[[Page 39538]]

    (2) Interest accrued on the use fee from the date your unauthorized 
use began, up to a total of 6 years.
    (g) Under no circumstances will your unauthorized use or payment of 
monies to the United States in association with an unauthorized use 
either:
    (1) Create an interest or color of title against the United States; 
or
    (2) Establish any right or preference to continue the unauthorized 
use.

Subpart I--Decisions and Appeals


Sec.  429.34  Who is the decisionmaker for Reclamation's final 
determinations?

    (a) The appropriate Reclamation Regional Director makes any final 
determinations associated with actions taken under this rule and will 
send that final determination in writing to you by mail.
    (b) The Regional Director's final determination will take effect 
immediately upon the date of the determination letter.


Sec.  429.35  May I appeal Reclamation's final determination?

    (a) Yes, if you are directly affected by such a determination, you 
may appeal in writing to the Commissioner within 30 calendar days after 
the date of the Regional Director's determination letter.
    (b) You have an additional 30 calendar days after the postmark of 
your written appeal to the Commissioner within which to submit any 
additional supporting information.
    (c) The Regional Director's determination will remain in effect 
until the Commissioner has reviewed your appeal and provided you with 
that decision, unless you specifically request a stay and a stay is 
granted by the Commissioner.


Sec.  429.36  May I appeal the Commissioner's decision?

    (a) Yes, you may appeal the Commissioner's decision to the 
Secretary of the Interior by writing to the Director, Office of Hearing 
and Appeals (OHA), U.S. Department of the Interior, 801 North Quincy 
Street, Arlington, Virginia 22203.
    (b) For an appeal to be timely, OHA must receive your appeal within 
30 calendar days from the date of the Commissioner's decision. Rules 
that govern appeals to the OHA are found at part 4, subpart G, of this 
title, except for the accrual of nonpayment or underpayment of monies 
due to the United States under Sec.  429.33(e).


Sec.  429.37  Does interest accrue on monies owed to the United States 
during my appeal process?

    Interest on any nonpayment or underpayment, as provided in Sec.  
429.33(e), continues to accrue during an appeal of a Regional 
Director's final determination, an appeal of the Commissioner's 
decision to OHA, or during judicial review of final agency action.
[FR Doc. E7-13847 Filed 7-17-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-MN-P