Dam Safety Permit/Waterway Construction Permit Details


Dam Safety Permit/Waterway Construction Permit

General Info - Statewide Permit


The Maryland Dam Safety Division issues waterway construction permits for new dams and ponds and permits for alterations to existing impoundment structures. The major goal of this permit is to ensure that dams are built and operated properly to protect public safety. 

Anyone who wishes to construct, reconstruct, repair, or alter a dam, reservoir, or similar waterway obstruction must obtain a permit prior to beginning any work (certain small ponds are exempt from this permit). Permits are reviewed and issued in two phases.


  • s

    Approval time

  • $0.00

    Application cost

Obtaining the Permit

Ready to get your permit? - Steps, Requirements, and Documents

  1. Complete a Joint Federal/State Application for the Alteration of any Floodplain, Waterway, Tidal or Nontidal
    Wetland in Maryland application.

  2. Mail the original plus four copies of the application, plans, vicinity maps, and any supporting documentation to the

    Regulatory Services Coordination Office.

Apply for the Permit

Agency/Contact

Permit Issuer - Information

Who issues the permit?

Maryland Department of Environment mde.maryland.gov

Contact Information

Brian Clevenger

Email: Brian.Clevenger@maryland.gov

Tel: (410) 537-3538