Tidal Wetland Permits, Licenses and Certifications
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Ready to Apply?
Tidal wetlands applications can be submitted online through our Environmental Service Center. Here you can submit your application, pay any associated fees, and track the status of your application.
Apply for a Permit
(Permit Guide 3.18)
*NEW*
The Wetlands & Waterways Protection Program is increasing its application review fees effective 7/17/26. The proposed new fee schedule is available HERE. The current fee schedule is active up until that time.
All applicants for wetlands and waterways authorizations issued by the Wetlands and Waterways Protection Program of the Maryland Department of the Environment, and Tidal Wetlands licenses issued by the Board of Public Works, must pay an
application fee.
Joint Federal/State Application for the Alteration of Any Tidal Wetland in Maryland (Joint Permit Application, JPA) a.k.a "Short Form" (For Tidal Projects Only):
JPA_Short_Form.pdf
(this is the recommended application for tidal projects)
Application documents required for tidal wetland activities (including but not limited to shoreline erosion control projects, piers and associated structures, dredging, filling, and alteration):
- Download bundle of documents (JPA_SF_Bundle.pdf)
- Download individual documents
- Tidal Wetlands Checklist (PDF) - Information required for a complete application.
- Notice to Tidal Wetland Applicants on Publication of Proposed Project (PDF)
- Adjoining Riparian Property Owner and Appropriate Local Official Notification and Certification Form (Required for Pier Projects) (PDF)
- Adjoining Property Owner Notification (Sample Letter) (PDF)
- Appropriate Local Official Notification (Sample Letter) (PDF)
- Alternative Signatures Form (PDF)
- Limited Power of Attorney Example (Contractors and/or Agents Only) (.doc)
Instructions for Short Form and Examples for Drawings of Tidal Projects
- Expedited Pier License (XPR) (Must meet the criteria under COMAR 26.24.04.02A and project location must have no potential effects to sensitive species or cultural resources. For PRIVATE fixed piers and associated structures such as platforms, boat hoist or lifts, mooring piles, and osprey poles).
