Think in layers, not one universal permit
Building, shoreline, zoning, setback, engineering and inspection requirements.
Environmental Resource Permitting, surface waters, wetlands and possible state-owned submerged lands.
U.S. Army Corps jurisdiction under applicable federal authorities, including current nationwide or regional permit pathways where eligible.
The joint process does not mean every project is automatically approved
FDEP explains that dredging and filling in wetlands and other surface waters is regulated through the ERP program and separately by the federal government. The application and coordination process depends on agency responsibilities. Exemptions and general permits have conditions; eligibility must be verified.
Common project details agencies need
- Existing and proposed plan and cross-section
- Mean or ordinary high-water information where applicable
- Linear feet and waterward extent
- Fill type and volume
- Existing vegetation, wetlands, seagrass and mangroves
- Construction access and turbidity/erosion controls
- Existing permits and documentation for the structure
Current federal permits changed in 2026
USACE publishes the current nationwide permits and general conditions. Do not rely on a 2021 or older summary when evaluating a 2026 application. The Jacksonville District and project-specific conditions may also matter.
Primary sources
These links support the regulatory, historical or technical context on this page. Open the live official page before acting on time-sensitive information.
- ERP Dredging and FillingFlorida Department of Environmental Protection · Overview of Environmental Resource Permitting for work in wetlands and other surface waters and coordination with federal review.
- Office of Resilience and Coastal ProtectionFlorida Department of Environmental Protection · State coastal construction, beaches, inlets and ports program information.
- Nationwide Permit InformationU.S. Army Corps of Engineers · Current federal nationwide permits, including bank stabilization and living shorelines.
This page provides general homeowner education. It does not determine structural safety, prescribe a repair or replace agency and professional review for a specific property.