However, applicants are encouraged to notify the corps to ensure that the intended discharges comply with the terms and conditions of a nationwide permit and that the Clean Water Act is not violated. Issuance or denial of a permit often takes 4-6 months and involves a detailed evaluation of the proposed discharge. Before an application is submitted, the prospective applicant meets with representatives of the corps and of other federal and state agencies to discuss the proposed discharge, to review potential environmental effects, and, if applicable, to develop practicable alternatives that are less damaging to the environment than the proposed discharge. When an application is accepted, the corps issues a public notice that describes the proposed discharge to solicit written comments from federal and state agencies and from the public about the possible effects of the discharge. The corps also determines the need for mitigation of wetland loss if a permit is issued.
Mitigation is specified by special conditions of the permit.