1. Do I need any permits to install a living shoreline?
Yes, permits are required for construction activity on the federal and state level adjacent to tidal and non-tidal waterbodies. In tidal waterbodies, the State has jurisdiction channelward of the mean high water line (MHWL) and for Federal jurisdiction is channelward of the high tide line. You can get a general idea of the MHWL location by going to the site at high tide or request a jurisdictional determination for an exact representation of State jurisdiction adjacent to tidal and non-tidal water features. Further consultation with the regulatory agencies involved is advised if there are wetlands already on the property.
2. Who do I contact for more permitting information?
Federal Jurisdiction:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE)
Regulator of the Day: 215-656-6728
State Jurisdiction:
DNREC, Wetlands and Waterways Section (WWS)
Scientist of the Day: 302-739-9943
DNREC, Delaware Coastal Programs
Questions: 302-739-9283
3. Since a living shoreline is a natural means to stabilize the shoreline, are there abbreviated ways to permit the project?
The ACOE offers Nationwide permits (NWPs) to expedite the permitting process. In particular, NWP No. 13 for Bank Stabilization and NWP No. 54 for Living Shorelines are often applicable to the proposed project. A pre-construction notification to the Army Corps may be required dependent upon the NWP, general conditions or regional conditions and the activity proposed.
Additionally, the State offers The Statewide Activity Approval (SAA) for Shoreline Stabilization Projects in Tidal and Non-Tidal Waters of the State of Delaware in applying for the construction of a living shoreline. Be sure to review the SAA to ensure the project is eligible for this simplified permitting process.
4. Do the abbreviated permitting processes apply to my freshwater shoreline project?
Yes, but you may want to first determine if the water feature is jurisdictional to the state and federal government. This can be done by requesting a jurisdictional determination of state features or by hiring an environmental consultant for federal jurisdiction.
5. Do I need to be a licensed marine contractor in order to install a living shoreline?
No, although it is recommended to hire an experienced professional to design and construct the living shoreline. In Delaware, there is currently no licensing program for marine contractors. However, the Permits authorizing the activity has special and general conditions that must be followed when installing the project.
6. Once my living shoreline is installed, do I need to get another permit in order to do maintenance activities?
Re-visit your permit approvals. Routinely there is a special condition included that addresses maintenance activities. If you are still unsure or would like to add an alternate method of stabilization than what was previously approved; reach out to the above-referenced delegated agencies for guidance.
Modifications to the project may require a separate approval. A determination of the need for a separate approval will be made by the state office pursuant to the applicant submitting written notification and revised plans indicating project changes.
7. Since a living shoreline is an environmentally friendly project, is there financial assistance available?
Yes. Grant funds are available through a variety of entities or organizations in Delaware on a plethora of different levels. It’s extremely important to read through these opportunities thoroughly. Searching around on your own for funding or reimbursement is also a viable option.
The DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship provides cost share assistance for installing living shorelines and stabilization projects in targeted watersheds in Delaware. Find out more information through the DNREC Living Shoreline Cost Share Program.