Stream Channel Alteration Permit

To alter a stream channel, an applicant must file a joint-agency stream channel alteration permit and receive approval of your application. The completed application may be submitted to any Idaho Department of Water Resources office. There is a non refundable application fee for a joint application of $20.

A joint-agency stream channel alteration application is used by IDWR, the Idaho Department of Lands, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is available from any of these offices or the IDWR web site. This single form is intended to streamline the application process among the various concerned resource agencies. To minimize duplication of effort when submitting an application that is pertinent to more than one agency, complete the application, except for the signature sections, make copies and then sign all copies and send to appropriate agencies. The application asks for a description of the project, the amount of material that needs to be excavated or filled, any anticipated environmental consequences, the type of equipment you expect to use and other similar information. You also will need to submit plans for your project that will help reviewers understand the extent, purpose and location of the work. These plans should include some reference to water surface elevations and stream boundaries including the ordinary high water marks.

It typically takes about 60 days for your application to be reviewed and a permit issued after receipt of all necessary information.

The permitting rules do not require public notices or public hearings; however, in some circumstances a public hearing is necessary to ensure full coordination and project visibility. Since you cannot begin work without the permit, it is important that you allow for the permit processing time in planning your proposed project start date.