Sen. Lazzara files bill in North Carolina Senate to clarify coastal ditch regulations

A new bill filed by State Sen. Michael A. Lazzara seeks to clarify the classification of man-made ditches under North Carolina’s Coastal Area Management Act, according to the North Carolina State Senate.

The bill, filed as SB 734 on March 25 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘Clarifying Estuarine Waters AEC Under CAMA.’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill aims to clarify that certain man-made ditches are not subject to the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) in North Carolina. It defines “man-made ditches” as constructed or altered features used to convey water, including artificial ponds, culverts, canals, swales, storm channels, minor-drainage features, and roadside ditches. The bill amends multiple sections, excluding these ditches from being classified as estuarine waters, waterways where the public has rights of access, and areas of environmental concern. Additionally, it specifies that marshland does not include areas within such man-made ditches. The act becomes effective upon becoming law.

Of the three sponsors of this bill, Bobby Hanig proposed the most bills (57) during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Lazzara, a Republican, was elected to the North Carolina State Senate in 2021 to represent the state’s 6th Senate district, replacing previous state senator Harry Brown.