There are three major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers authorities that establish permit requirements
Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899
Prohibits the obstruction or alteration of navigable waters of the United Sates without a Department of the Army permit.
Section 103 of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972
Prohibits the transportation of dredged material for ocean dumping without a Department of the Army permit.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act of 1972
Prohibits the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, including wetlands, without a Department of the Army permit.