401 & Buffer Permitting Branch

The 401 & Buffer Permitting Branch is responsible for implementing the state's waters, wetlands, and riparian buffer regulatory programs and assisting with compliance and enforcement procedures.

Contacts

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn about our state's water resources including streams, wetlands, waters, and riparian buffers; explore the 401 certification, isolated waters permitting, buffer authorization, and buffer variance processes; and browse helpful links.

Helpful Documents & Links

Read our guides and manuals, fact sheets, and sample documents that have been developed for streams, lakes, reservoirs and wetlands. 

Public Notices

View current and archived public notices of individual certification applications and important general information postings related to our programs.

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. 

401 & Isolated Wetlands/Waters Program

Learn about how to apply for a water quality certification or isolated wetlands/waters permit and associated stormwater management planning.

General Certifications

Browse isolated/ non-404 permits, nationwide permits, regional general permits, expired general certifications, and more.

Riparian Buffer Protection Program

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

Stream & Wetland Mitigation Program

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

Nutrient Offset & Buffer Mitigation Program

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

Compliance Assistance Program

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

Surface Water Identification Training and Certification (SWITC)

Learn about the SWITC course, discover when future classes are being offered, and find links to register for upcoming classes or waitlists.

Laserfiche

DWR’s Document Management System lets you view and print files for projects that include buffer impacts, stream determinations, mitigation, 401 certifications, and 401 stormwater management plans. (See the Laserfiche Weblink User's Guide for help navigating the system.)

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, isolated wetlands/waters permit, buffer authorization, and/or buffer variance for both Department of Transportation (DOT) and non-DOT projects on this clickable map.

Rules & Statutes

Read the rules and statutes that govern our streams and wetlands.