Responsibilities of the 401 & Buffer Permitting Branch

Black River with Bald Cypress

The 401 & Buffer Permitting Branch is responsible for implementing water quality standards and other state regulations within the state's waters, such as lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands; riparian buffer regulatory programs; and assisting with compliance and enforcement procedures.

401 & Buffer Permitting Programs

Tab/Accordion Items

Visit the 401 & Isolated Streams & Buffers page to learn about how to apply for a water quality certification or isolated streams permit and associated stormwater management planning.

Learn about technical assistance provided on environmental compliance and enforcement issues across the state, how to access case files, and marina information.

Learn about the various riparian buffer protection programs that are implemented throughout the state.  Also find maps, clarification memos, and helpful documents.

Learn about the stream and wetland compensatory mitigation program implemented throughout the state. Also find templates, guidance documents, and mitigation bank information.

Learn about the nutrient offset and buffer compensatory mitigation program and find templates, guidance documents, and mitigation bank information.

Recent Updates-Public Notices

Recent public notices include: As of Jan. 12, 2024, applicants must use the latest version of the Pre-Construction Notification Form for 401 Certifications As of Dec. 01, 2023, pre-filing meetings for 401 Certifications are not longer required; As of of Sept. 20, 2023, there are wetland rule changes.

401 and Buffer-Wetlands ePayments

Wetlands ePayments will allow you to submit payment for Major and Minor water quality applications Fee Schedule: Major water quality applications: $767.00 Minor water quality applications: $323.00 In order to submit a payment, you will need the Project number and Version number

Application Forms & Documents

Find application forms and help documents for 401 certifications, isolated waters permits, stream determinations, shoreline stabilization and lake area residence work, and buffer authorizations and variances.

Application Tracker Map

Check the status of pending permit applications or plan approvals via our clickable map. You may search by location, permit type, facility name, or permit number to track progress from the date of receipt of an application until a final decision is made.

401 & Buffer Permit Tracker Map

Find information on issued and completed projects with a 401 water quality certification, buffer authorization, and/or buffer variance for both Department of Transportation (DOT) and non-DOT projects on this clickable map.

401 and Buffer Contacts

Contact information for the Central and Regional Offices