Non-Tidal Wetlands & Waterways Permit Details

 Does your project require work to be performed in a non-tidal wetland or the non-tidal wetland buffer? If so, this permit is required by the Maryland Department of Environment. 

Non-tidal wetlands are commonly known as marshes, swamps, bogs, wet meadows and bottomland forests. They are inland, freshwater areas usually covered or saturated with water for long periods during the growing season. Non-tidal wetlands help protect the Chesapeake and Coastal Bays and streams by filtering phosphorus, nitrogen, and other pollutants from upland runoff. They form natural flood retention areas able to store floodwater and slowly release them downstream, reducing flood damages. Non-tidal wetland vegetation helps stabilize stream-banks and reduce stream-bank erosion. They also provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including many rare, threatened and endangered species, and organic material for the food chain. Non-tidal wetlands are also areas of scenic beauty and provide recreational opportunities. The goal of the Non-tidal Wetlands Division is to manage non-tidal wetlands and to provide essential resource protection by authorizing only necessary and unavoidable impacts.