A number of state and federal laws regulate how estuaries may be used. Most of these laws require that a permit be obtained for any activity which would alter the estuary.
Estuary plans provide a framework for permit decisions.
Federal laws are based on the national government's general mandate to protect public health and welfare and its specific authority over all navigable waters. The authorities delegated to various state and federal agencies are outlined below. The Removal-Fill Law sets strict standards for resource protection and requires that DSL solicit comments from a variety of agencies and the public to assure that all public concerns are fully considered. DSL also administers the requirement for mitigation of dredge or fill in intertidal areas. Since protection of habitat is also critical to management, ODFW advises other agencies and local governments on proper measures to protect and enhance habitat.