A permit shall be granted only if the department is satisfied that the area is suitable for the activities applied for; that the applicant will be able to comply with the provisions of this chapter and the rules and regulations enacted hereunder; and that a permit would be in the best interests of the state.

     The department shall not allow operation of a well under permit if it finds that the operation of any well will unreasonably decrease groundwater available for prior water rights in any aquifer or other groundwater source for water for beneficial uses, unless such affected water rights are acquired by condemnation, purchase or other means.

     The department shall have the authority to condition the permit as it deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter, including but not limited to conditions to reduce any environmental impact.

     The department shall forward a copy of the permit to the department of ecology within five days of issuance.

[1974 ex.s. c 43 § 8. Formerly RCW 79.76.080.]