Island Information: Watercourse and Wetland Alterations

Island Information

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Watercourse and Wetland Alterations

How do I obtain a permit for my Watercourse /Wetland Alteration Project?

A watercourse/wetland alteration is any temporary or permanent change made at, near or to a watercourse or wetland. A permit is required for all such alterations made within 10 metres (32.8 feet) of any watercourse or wetland boundary. All proponents must submit an application before starting any project. Examples of watercourse/wetland alteration projects include:

dredging
stream enhancement
impoundment maintenance
installing culverts/bridges
temporary stream crossings (forestry)
constructing ponds
surface water irrigation
wharf/breakwater repair or construction
slipway repair or construction

All proponents must submit applications in time to complete the approval process prior to the initiation of the work. Applications for major projects scheduled for the instream work season should be submitted prior to June 1. The applicant should allow a minimum of four weeks for a response either approving or rejecting the application; if the application is complete and sufficient detail has been provided.

The most common cause for delay is the lack of detailed information on the application in regard to the proposed alteration. The map showing the area of the proposed alteration can be a good quality photocopy. These can be obtained from your nearest Forestry or Access PEI site. You may also want to view and print an aerial photograph of the area. Enter the parcel identification number (PID)in the Address Locator and click on Show Address Details.

It is important that the exact location of the watercourse/wetland as well as the access route are accurately and clearly marked on this map as representatives from the Watercourse Alteration Advisory Committee may visit the site. A 1:50,000 topographic map is ideal for this purpose.

How much does it cost?

There is no charge to obtain a Watercourse/Wetland Alteration Permit with the exception of water withdrawal for irrigation purposes.

Applications for Watercourse/Wetland Alteration Permits are available at all Access PEI locations.

Please review the PEI Watercourse and Wetlands Alteration Guidelines:
Introduction
General Planning Considerations and Guidelines
Guidelines for Specific Watercourse Alteration Types
Glossary & Working Group Membership
Appendix A - Habitats and Behavioural Patterns
Appendix B - Applicable Legislation
Appendix C - Fisheries Act
Appendix D - Fisheries and Oceans Policy for the Management of Fish Habitat
Appendix E - Please see below for Application
Appendix F - Agricultural Irrigation Policy
Appendix G - Environmental Protection Act
Appendix H - Wetland Conservation Policy
Appendix I - Beaver Policy