Who Must Apply Any person, agency, or entity, either public or private, proposing a project that will result in the discharge or placement of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States. Activities Requiring a Permit Any activity that will result in the excavation, discharge, or placement of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, including wetlands. Purpose of the Law To restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation's waters. The Environmental Protection Agency also has regulatory review and enforcement functions under the law. Any person, agency, or entity, either public or private, planning a project must submit an application to the Corps for review.
Permit authorization varies depending on the size and scope of the intended project.
Activities that meet the conditions for a Nationwide or Regional General Permit may be approved in 10 days or less. Individual Permits are processed individually and require a public review period. Permit approval may take 60 to 90 days.