Wetland and Waters Permitting

Section 404/10 Permitting

Projects impacting wetlands, streams, and other waters of the U.S. may require authorization under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) and/or Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. Envise helps clients navigate the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) permitting process, ensuring compliance while minimizing project delays.

There are three primary types of permits:

  • Nationwide Permits (NWPs): Streamlined permits for activities with minimal environmental impact. NWPs cover common development activities, such as utility line crossings and minor road fills, and often require pre-construction notification to the USACE.

  • General Permits (GPs): Issued on a regional basis for recurring activities that have minimal impacts on aquatic resources. These permits simplify the review process for projects within specific geographic areas or industries.

  • Individual Permits (IPs): Required for projects with significant impacts on jurisdictional waters. IPs involve a detailed alternatives analysis, public notice, and agency coordination, making early planning and expert guidance essential.

Envise assists clients in determining the appropriate permit type, preparing application materials, coordinating with regulatory agencies, and ensuring compliance with mitigation requirements to keep projects on track.

Section 408 Permitting

Projects that alter or impact USACE civil works projects, such as levees, flood control channels, and navigation structures, may require authorization under Section 408 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. This process ensures that proposed modifications do not impair the integrity, function, or public benefits of existing federal projects.

Envise guides clients through the Section 408 review process, which may include:

  • Engineering and environmental evaluations to assess potential impacts.

  • Coordination with USACE districts to determine review requirements.

  • Preparation of technical documentation, drawings, and justifications for project approval.

  • Compliance with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other regulatory requirements.

Whether your project involves pipeline crossings, outfall structures, levee modifications, or other regulated activities, Envise works closely with regulatory agencies to streamline the permitting process while ensuring compliance with federal guidelines.

Coastal Use Permitting

Projects located within Louisiana’s Coastal Zone may require a Coastal Use Permit (CUP) from the Louisiana Department of Energy and Natural Resources (LDENR), Office of Coastal Management (OCM). These permits ensure that development activities are conducted in a way that protects coastal resources while allowing for sustainable economic growth.

Envise assists clients in navigating the Coastal Use Permitting process, including:

  • Determining permit requirements based on project location and scope.

  • Preparing and submitting permit applications.

  • Coordinating with LDENR, USACE, and other agencies to streamline approvals.

  • Addressing mitigation and environmental compliance requirements.

Whether your project involves commercial development, infrastructure improvements, wetland impacts, or waterway modifications, Envise provides expert guidance to ensure compliance with Louisiana’s coastal regulations while keeping your project on schedule.