Complete Permit Application Guidance for Section 404, 401, and HPA Permits
The Complete Permit Application Guidance (pdf 169 kb) will help permit applicants for WSDOT projects reduce delays associated with the permitting process by developing a complete Joint Aquatic Resource Permit Application (JARPA). JARPA is a single permit application for development activities in or among aquatic environments. Multiple regulatory agencies (Federal, State, and Local) worked together to create one application that people can use to apply for more than one permit at a time.
Why should I use this guidance?
As a permit applicant, you need to understand what information is required when submitting a JARPA to the regulatory agencies. Each agency has different needs and requirements, depending on the permit you are seeking and the activities you are proposing. Simply filling out a JARPA form does not ensure that your permit application will be complete, because there are a number of regulatory requirements that require the applicant to attach technical reports to the application. This guidance was developed specifically for WSDOT and therefore it includes links to documents, processes, and protocols specific to WSDOT. If you adhere to this guidance, it will improve your likelihood of having a complete application, which in turn should reduce permitting delays and surprises associated with incomplete JARPA submittals.
How can I use this guidance?
Permit applicants for WSDOT projects should consider this guidance early in the design stage prior to the JARPA submittal. You can use this guidance to develop permitting schedules and timelines. You can also use this guidance to perform internal quality assurance and quality control checks just before submitting a JARPA to the agencies. You should also consider this guidance when developing a scope a work for consultants, hired by WSDOT to help obtain permits, to clearly define roles and responsibilities and to establish expectations.
Who will maintain and update this guidance?
The WSDOT Environmental Services Office, Permitting and Compliance Program Manager, Eric Wolin, will be responsible for maintaining and updating the guidance. The guidance will be updated on a yearly basis to incorporate comments and to reflect new policies and regulatory changes. If you have any questions or comments feel free to contact Eric Wolin at (360) 705-7487.
General Special Provisions (GSPs)
The following GSPs are to be used for painting and bridge washing covered under the General NPDES permit WA-0039039.
The first GSP is for the testing and analysis required from the permit. The second provides the condition requirements or limitations that will apply to the contractor. When including the GSP in the contract specifications, extract and include only the section which applies to your work--be it a bridge or ferry terminal transfer span.
Effluent Testing GSP (pdf 32 kb)
Paint Prep GSP (pdf 29 kb)
Section 401 Certification for 404 Nationwide Permits
Projects that are covered under the Army Corps Of Engineers nationwide permits may automatically receive 401 certification. The ACOE's Special Public Notice specifies whether a project must apply for individual 401 certification. ACOE's Special Public Notice has three parts. The first part describes the relationship between 401 certification and the section 404 nationwide permits. Pages 5 through 6 lists NWPs for which 401 certification is:
- approved for all projects--individual 401 certification is not needed.
- partially denied without prejudice-- some potentially covered activities will need individual 401 certification, whereas others will not.
- denied without prejudice--all covered activities will require individual 401 certification
For NWPs where 401 certification is partially denied without prejudice, refer to the second and third parts of the special public notice to determine if your project activities need individual certification. Note that the Chehalis and Puyallup tribes have 401 jurisdiction and require individual certification for all NWPs. The EPA, which handles federal and other tribal lands requires individual certification for essentially all NWPs.
Beaver Trapping on WSDOT Property
No Permit Required
If a live trap is used.... no permit is required. However, the person performing the trapping must have a Trapping license from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to perform the work. WSDOT staff should inform the local WDFW Area Habitat Biologist of the trapping operation and provide them with the location(s) and the trapper's license number. This is not a requirement, but is to our benefit if they receive a phone call from the general public. If you are going to be using live traps notify the Regional Maintenance Environmental Coordinator RMEC (pdf 17 kb) of when and where the beaver trapping will be done. Also, let the RMEC (pdf 17 kb) know if you want them to make the contact with the local WDFW Area Habitat Biologist.
Finally, prior to trapping you should familiarize yourself with WDFW’s trapping rules and other information on their website.
Permit Required
If any other type of trap is used, you will need to fill out the one page animal trapping application form for a permit. Be sure to read the animal trapping application instructions. Permit processing should only take a couple of days once WDFW receives the application.
The critical item in this application is the portion regarding 'public safety'. Under the law (initiative) passed in 2000, non live traps can only be used under specific criteria. Therefore we need to explain how the beaver is creating a public safety problem AND that it is on State property. In filling out the permit application, you can list multiple locations within your area where the beavers will be trapped. Don't worry about providing the Township, Range, and Section (Your RMEC (pdf 17 kb) will provide them with this information if they need it), just provide the State Route and Milepost.
The person performing the work must have a trapping license. Again, it is good practice to inform the local WDFW Area Habitat Biologist that you will be trapping beavers and provide the location, permit number, and the license number. If you elect to get the permit yourself, please provide your RMEC (pdf 17 kb) with a copy.
Finally, prior to trapping you should familiarize yourself with WDFW’s trapping rules and other information on their website.
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