Aquatic Use Authorization

Aquatic Use Authorization

(Aquatic Lease)

What is the Purpose of this Permit?

To protect and manage the use of state owned aquatic lands, consistent with Chapter 79.105 RCW.

Who issues this Permit?

Department of Natural Resources

What Activities Require this Permit?

Most activities taking place on state-owned aquatic lands may require a lease or other form of use authorization (easement or right-of-way). Before you start your project, contact the DNR regional office near you to discuss your proposal.

How Much Will this Permit Cost?

It depends. If your proposal to use state owned aquatic lands is approved a rent may apply. The amount of the rent will depend on your project. You can find the rent rates under: WAC 332-30-123 Aquatic land use rentals for water-dependant uses, WAC 332-30-125 Aquatic land use rental rates for non-water dependant uses, WAC 332-30-126 Sand and gravel extraction fees, and RCW 79.105.200 through RCW 79.105.310.

Where Can I Get the Application for this Permit?

The application which is called 'Aquatic Use Authorization', is online and can be downloaded at http://www.dnr.wa.gov/Publications/aqr_use_auth_app.doc.

Do I Need to Include Anything with my Application?

Yes, a $25 non-refundable application processing fee must be submitted along with the Application for Authorization to use State-Owned Aquatic Lands. DNR may also require surveys or legal description of the property, a plan of development/operations, bonds, insurance, etc.

The project may also require additional permits as required by other governmental agencies, such as permits contained in the Joint Aquatic Resources Permit Application (JARPA). These are to be included along with the application.

It�s extremely important for you to submit all that is required to avoid delays in the Aquatic Use Authorization application review process.

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

Yes, you must complete all other government permits or permit waivers before an authorization can be issued. For example, if the project requires a SEPA decision, and a Hydraulic Project Approval in addition to the use authorization, those processes must be complete before DNR can issue a decision.

How Long Will it Take to Review my Application?

Review time generally takes between 6 months to a year after DNR receives a complete application.

The DNR regional office will send your application to the project site Land Manager for review. The Land Manager will review the proposed uses for your project and will confirm if land is available to lease.

If the Land Manager approves your application, you will receive a draft of the use authorization and the Land Manager may schedule a meeting to negotiate the terms of the agreement. Once the Lease is final, DNR will send you an authorization packet to complete and return.

Where do I Submit my Application?

To the DNR regional office along with your $25 processing fee.

Schematic:

View the schematic

How Long is my Permit Valid?

It depends. The duration of your use authorization will depend on the proposed uses and the class of land you lease. The land classes are: Bedlands, 1st class tidelands and shorelands, 2nd class tidelands and shorelands, and Harbor Areas.

Use authorization durations are specified under RCW 79.115 through RCW 79.135.

What is the Appeal Process for the Permit?

You may request a review of proposed rents within 30 days of DNR�s notification of rent due according to WAC 332-30-128.

Notes / Comments:

The Application for Authorization to use State-Owned Aquatic Lands is also available through the DNR regional office Aquatic Resources Division.

Legal Authority:

Statewide Contact:

Department of Natural Resources
Aquatic Resources Division
Headquarters
1111 Washington Street SE
PO Box 47027
Olympia, WA 98504-7027
Telephone: (360) 902-1100
Fax: (360) 902-1786

* Permit information last updated 7/6/2009.

Permit Handbook > Aquatic Resource Permits