Wetlands and Development

Jurisdictional wetlands require hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and wetland hydrology.

Screening

Check NWI maps and SSURGO hydric soil indicators. NWI shows known wetlands but misses small or recent ones.

Section 404 Permits

Nationwide permits (NWP 29/39): up to 0.5 acres, 45-120 days. Individual permits: 6-18 months, $50,000-$200,000+ in fees.

Mitigation

Avoid > minimize > compensate. Mitigation banking: $50,000-$200,000+ per acre. Ratios: 1.5:1 to 3:1.