Section 51.003. Variances.

  The department may approve in writing a variance from a requirement of this chapter if the department determines that a variance is essential to effect necessary grant actions or program objectives and where special circumstances make a variance in the best interest of the stewardship program. Before approving a variance, the department shall take into account factors such as good cause, circumstances beyond the control of the sponsor, financial hardship and landowner demands. The department may seek the advice of the stewardship advisory council before issuing a variance. The department may not grant variances from statutory requirements.

Cr. Register, October, 1990, No. 418 , eff. 11-1-90; r. and recr. Register, February, 1996, No. 482 , eff. 3-1-96; emerg. am. eff. 9-1-00; CR 00-135 : am. Reg ister July 2001, No. 547 eff. 8-1-01; CR 10-127 : am. Register February 2012 No. 674 , eff. 3-1-12.