Jurisdictional wetlands require hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and wetland hydrology.
Check NWI maps and SSURGO hydric soil indicators. NWI shows known wetlands but misses small or recent ones.
Nationwide permits (NWP 29/39): up to 0.5 acres, 45-120 days. Individual permits: 6-18 months, $50,000-$200,000+ in fees.
Avoid > minimize > compensate. Mitigation banking: $50,000-$200,000+ per acre. Ratios: 1.5:1 to 3:1.