How a permit works

From application to close-out, this page describes each step and the time it usually takes.

  1. Determine whether you need a permit

    A project in the District may need a District permit, a permit from your city or township (a local government unit, or LGU), or both. If you are not sure, contact us before you apply.

  2. Submit an application and fee

    Submit the application with plans and supporting documents, and pay the application fee. The fee depends on the type and size of the project.

  3. Acknowledgment and completeness review

    The District acknowledges that it received the application and reviews it for completeness. If information is missing, we will ask for it.

    Up to 15 business days

  4. Board decision

    The Board of Managers considers complete applications at its regular meeting on the third Wednesday of each month. The applicant is notified of the result by email within one to two business days.

    Monthly Board meeting

  5. Conditions and final fee

    The Board may approve a permit with conditions, such as final plans or contingency measures. The final fee is adjusted to the actual cost of review.

  6. Permit issued

    Once the conditions that apply before issue are met, the Administrator issues the permit as a PDF. A permit is valid for one year.

    Valid for one year

  7. Inspections

    District staff inspect permitted sites in the spring and fall. Findings are documented with numbered photos, and the permittee receives a list of any items to correct.

  8. Extension or close-out

    If work continues past the permit’s expiration date, request an extension from the Board before the permit expires. The permit is closed when the site has uniform perennial vegetation covering 70 percent.

    70 percent vegetation

Common questions

I need a permit

When is a permit needed?

It depends on what you are doing and where. The District’s rules cover, among others, erosion and sediment control (Rule B), floodplain management (Rule C), stormwater management (Rule D) and steep slopes (Rule F). A project can fall under more than one rule.

Your city or township may also require its own permit. If you are not sure, contact us before you apply.

What do I need to apply?
  • Project location and a description of the work
  • Site plans, including grading and erosion control
  • Stormwater calculations, if the project needs them
  • A stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP), if required
  • Any permit required by your city or township
What does it cost, and how do I pay?

The fee depends on the type and size of the project. Staff confirm the amount after they review your application and send payment instructions by email. Nothing is due when you apply. The final fee is adjusted to the actual cost of review.

Government agencies pay no application fee.

How long does it take?
  • Staff review each submission and confirm it.
  • The completeness review takes up to 15 business days from the date you submit.
  • The Board of Managers decides complete applications at its regular meeting on the third Wednesday of each month. Materials are prepared 20 business days before the meeting.
  • You receive the result by email within one to two business days after the meeting.

I have a permit

What are conditions?

The Board may approve a permit with conditions, such as final signed plans, a construction schedule or contact information for the people responsible for erosion control. Work may not begin until the conditions that apply before issue are met. You can follow their status online.

When will my site be inspected?

District staff inspect permitted sites in the spring and fall. Findings are documented with numbered photos, and you receive a list of any items to correct.

What if my project changes?

Notify the District right away if the project changes in a way that could need a permit amendment.

How do I extend my permit?

A permit is valid for one year. If work will continue past the expiration date, contact the District well before it expires. We recommend at least 60 days, so there is no gap in coverage. The District will also send a reminder before the permit expires.

How is my permit closed out?

A permit is closed when the site has uniform perennial vegetation covering 70 percent, and District staff have confirmed it.

Questions about a permit?

Email permit@lowermnriverwd.org and include your permit number if you have one.

Apply for a permitCheck permit status