Hydraulic Project Approval

Hydraulic Project Approval

(HPA)

What is the Purpose of this Permit?

Any form of work that uses, diverts, obstructs, or changes the natural flow or bed of any fresh water or saltwater of the state, requires a Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). Permit processing can take up to 45 days following receipt of a complete application package.

A complete application package for an HPA must include a completed Joint Aquatic Resource Permit Application (JARPA) form, general plans for the overall project, and complete plans and specifications of the proposed work within the mean higher high water line in salt waters or within the ordinary high water line in fresh waters of the state, complete plans and specifications for the proper protection of fish life, and notice of compliance with any applicable requirements of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).

Who issues this Permit?

Department of Fish and Wildlife

What Activities Require this Permit?

Work that uses, diverts, obstructs, or changes the natural flow or bed of any of the salt or fresh waters of state.

Includes bed reconfiguration, all construction or other work waterward, under and over the ordinary high water line, including dry channels, and may include projects landward of the ordinary high water line (e.g., activities outside the ordinary high water line that will directly impact fish life and habitat, falling trees into streams or lakes, bridge maintenance, dike construction, etc.)

How Much Will this Permit Cost?

None.

Where Can I Get the Application for this Permit?

The application which is called 'Joint Aquatic Resource Permit Application (JARPA)', is online and can be downloaded at http://www.epermitting.wa.gov/site/alias__resourcecenter/jarpa/9983/jarpa.aspx.

Do I Need to Include Anything with my Application?

As contained within JARPA; must include general plans for project, complete plans and specifications for the proposed construction or work within the mean higher high water line in salt water or within the ordinary high water line in fresh water, and complete plans and specs for the proper protection of fish life. Applications for streamlined processing of fish habitat enhancement projects must additionally include the application form for these projects that is attached to the JARPA.

Is the Decision on my Permit Dependent on Anything Besides the Information in my Application?

State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) compliance must be completed prior to review of your application and issuance of the HPA by WDFW. SEPA compliance is not required for an expedited or an emergency HPA.

How Long Will it Take to Review my Application?

Maximum of 45 calendar days after complete application is received and SEPA compliance is complete for a standard HPA; a maximum of 15 days (after receipt of a complete application) for an expedited HPA; immediately for an emergency HPA. Processing of standard HPA's can be placed on hold if applicant cannot be reached, if project site is inaccessible, or the applicant requests it.

Where do I Submit my Application?

If you are NOT requesting emergency or expedited processing, submit two copies of your application to the Headquarters office in Olympia.
If you are requesting emergency or expedited processing, submit two copies of your application to the appropriate Regional office.
If you are applying for a fish habitat enhancement project permit you also must send a copy of your application package to the local government at the same time you send it to WDFW.

Schematic:

View the schematic

How Long is my Permit Valid?

Up to five years for a standard HPA; up to 60 days for an expedited HPA; the length of the emergency for emergency HPAs.

What is the Appeal Process for the Permit?

Informal and formal appeal processes are available to the applicant or other aggrieved parties, but must be filed within 30 days of issuance or denial of HPA.

Notes / Comments:

Current pamphlet HPA's include Aquatic Plants and Fish pamphlet for aquatic plant control projects, and the Gold and Fish pamphlet for mineral prospecting permits.
Pamphlet HPA's are free, do not require submittal of a written application, are for the preservation of fish life and have specific application requirements and duration. They are issued under specific statutory authority.

Legal Authority:

Statewide Contact:

Department of Fish and Wildlife
Headquarters
Habitat Program
600 Capital Way North
Olympia, WA 98501-1091
For assistance contact 1-800-917-0043 (Office of Regulatory Assistance).
Website: http://wdfw.wa.gov/

* Permit information last updated 6/12/2009.

Permit Handbook > Aquatic Resource Permits