About the Regulatory Program

How it Started

The Department of the Army Regulatory Program is one of the nation's oldest federal programs, initially focused on protecting the navigable capacity of the nation's waters. Over time, it has expanded in complexity and authority due to changing public needs, policy, case law, and new statutory mandates.

Why it's Important

The program aims to protect the Waters of the United States while permitting reasonable development through balanced decisions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers evaluates permit applications for most construction activities in the nation's waters, including wetlands. The Great Lakes and Ohio River Division oversees regulation and permitting in the Great Lakes region and Ohio River basin, issuing over 10,000 permits annually. Our goals are to protect the aquatic environment, efficiently manage the permitting process, and ensure fair decisions for the public.

  • Learn about the USACE Regulatory Program and it's role in balancing the needs of our nation, with the needs of the environment. Importance to the Public
  • A public service announcement about the regulatory mission of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Process 101
Apply for a Permit

Apply for a Permit

We generally offer two kinds of permits :

  1. Individual Permits, including Standard Permits and Letters of Permission
  2. General Permits, including Nationwide Permits and General Permits

Permits can also vary by state.

Find Your Regulatory Office

Confirm the area you’re seeking a permit for is within Buffalo, Chicago, Detroit, Huntington, Louisville, Nashville, or Pittsburgh Districts.

Select a State Regulatory Page

If your area of interest is within our boundaries, select the corresponding state for more detailed information and application instructions.

If your area of interest falls outside Great Lakes and Ohio River Division's boundary, click on the district web link found in the Regulatory Boundaries map popup.

Appeal a Decision

Most appealable decisions are made by district offices. Applicants may appeal a decision through the division's Administrative Appeal process.

Resources

Public Notices

Contact

Administrative Appeals Officer
(513) 310-4196
Buffalo District
(716) 879-4330
Chicago District
(312) 846-5530
Detroit District
(313) 226-6413
Louisville District
(502) 315-6733
Huntington District: Energy Resources (West VIrginia and Ohio)
(304) 399-5610
Huntington District: Regulatory/Permits (Ohio)
(304) 399-5210
Huntington District: South/Transportation Branch (West Virginia and Ohio)
(304) 399-5710
Nashville District
(615) 369-7500
Pittsburgh District
(412) 395-7155