Corps Permits FAQ: Section 404 and Section 10

What are the specifications for drawings that need to be submitted with Corps applications? Please do not use the drawing instructions attached to downloadable versions of the JARPA form. Look for example drawings on the site under the "Example JARPAs" tab. You can find updated instructions at the Corps Regulatory web site. Read full story
What will happen if I work without getting a permit from the Corps? You are required by law to get permits from the Corps for certain activities. Performing unauthorized work in waters of the United States or failure to comply with the terms of a valid permit can have serious consequences. You would be in violation of federal law and could face stiff penalties, including fines and/or requirements to restore the area. Enforcement is an important part of the Corps regulatory program. Corps surveillance and monitoring activities are often aided by various agencies, groups, and individuals, who report suspected violations. When in doubt as to whether a planned activity needs a permit, contact the nearest district regulatory office. It could save a lot of unnecessary trouble later. Read full story
How can I design my project to eliminate the need for a Corps permit? If your activity is located in an area of tidal waters, the best way to avoid needing a permit is to select a site that is above the high tide line and avoids wetlands or other waterbodies. In the vicinity of fresh water, stay above the ordinary high water mark and avoid wetlands adjacent to the stream or lake. It is possible that your activity is exempt and does not need a Corps permit or that it has been authorized by a nationwide or regional general permit. Before you build, dredge or fill, contact the Corps district regulatory office in your area for specific information about location, exemptions, and regional and nationwide general permits. Read full story
How can I get more information about Corps permit requirements? Contact any Corps district regulatory office or water resource agency for information about regulatory programs. Read full story
When should I apply for a Corps permit? You should apply as early as possible to be sure you have all required approvals before the date that you plan to start construction, installation, or operation of your project. For a large or complex activity that may take longer, it is often helpful to have an informal meeting (pre-application consultation) with the Corps during the early planning phase of your project. The Corps may give you helpful information or guidance that could prevent delays later. If you are not sure whether you need a permit for your project or what you need to do, call a Corps district regulatory office. Read full story

What are the specifications for drawings that need to be submitted with Corps applications?

Please do not use the drawing instructions attached to downloadable versions of the JARPA form. Look for example drawings on the site under the "Example JARPAs" tab. You can find updated instructions at the Corps Regulatory web site.

Read full story

What will happen if I work without getting a permit from the Corps?
You are required by law to get permits from the Corps for certain activities. Performing unauthorized work in waters of the United States or failure to comply with the terms of a valid permit can have serious consequences. You would be in violation of federal law and could face stiff penalties, including fines and/or requirements to restore the area. Enforcement is an important part of the Corps regulatory program. Corps surveillance and monitoring activities are often aided by various agencies, groups, and individuals, who report suspected violations. When in doubt as to whether a planned activity needs a permit, contact the nearest district regulatory office. It could save a lot of unnecessary trouble later. Read full story

How can I design my project to eliminate the need for a Corps permit?
If your activity is located in an area of tidal waters, the best way to avoid needing a permit is to select a site that is above the high tide line and avoids wetlands or other waterbodies. In the vicinity of fresh water, stay above the ordinary high water mark and avoid wetlands adjacent to the stream or lake. It is possible that your activity is exempt and does not need a Corps permit or that it has been authorized by a nationwide or regional general permit. Before you build, dredge or fill, contact the Corps district regulatory office in your area for specific information about location, exemptions, and regional and nationwide general permits. Read full story

How can I get more information about Corps permit requirements?
Contact any Corps district regulatory office or water resource agency for information about regulatory programs. Read full story

When should I apply for a Corps permit?
You should apply as early as possible to be sure you have all required approvals before the date that you plan to start construction, installation, or operation of your project. For a large or complex activity that may take longer, it is often helpful to have an informal meeting (pre-application consultation) with the Corps during the early planning phase of your project. The Corps may give you helpful information or guidance that could prevent delays later. If you are not sure whether you need a permit for your project or what you need to do, call a Corps district regulatory office. Read full story