PERMITTING
This guide is your roadmap through the complexities of acquiring the necessary permits for stream or watershed protection projects in Hawaiʻi. Navigating the permits required by various agencies can be daunting, but with the right information and steps, you can contribute significantly to the stewardship of Hawaiʻi's natural resources.
Understanding the Need for Permits
Permits act as safeguards for the environment, ensuring that projects align with established environmental and safety standards. Activities like....
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Installing septic systems
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Clearing vegetation near waterways
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Flood mitigation
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Construction near streams
...all typically require permits to minimize impacts on the environment, flood management, species habitats, and human health.
Navigating Permitting Agencies
Permitting involves multiple levels of government, each with specific areas of responsibility:
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Federal: United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) oversees waterway management and environmental protection.
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State: Hawaiʻi Department of Health Clean-Water branch (HDOH-CWB) focuses on water quality, alongside the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), which includes the Commission on Water Resources Management (CWRM).
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County: Local government departments such as Department of Public Works and the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) handle county-specific regulations.
Step-by-Step General Permitting Guide
1. Determine Your Project's Impact:
Assess activities like installing septic systems or clearing vegetation near waterways to understand permit requirements.
2. Know the Regulating Agencies:
Familiarize yourself with agencies at the Federal, State, and County levels that might be involved in your permitting process.
3. Permitting Do's and Don'ts:
Ensure you understand what to do (like thoroughly reviewing applications) and what not to do (such as starting projects that could harm protected species without approval).
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Do thoroughly review permit applications for unfamiliar terms.
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Do consult with agency staff if you need clarification.
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Don’t begin projects affecting protected species or alter stream flows without approval.
4. Identifying the Right Permit:
Use agency websites to find which permit applies to your project, such as....
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Conservation District Use Application (CDUA) for activities in conservation districts.
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Special Activity Permits for projects affecting protected aquatic resources.
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Stream Channel Alteration Permit for projects altering stream flows or ch
5. Application Process:
Prepare your application with detailed information about your project, including maps, photographs, and descriptions of the work to be performed. Ensure your application is complete and includes any other required permits or permissions, such as right-of-entry permits or approvals from the State Historic Preservation Division.
6. Submitting Your Application:
Submit your application to the appropriate agency, either online or in person, as specified by the agency’s submission guidelines. Keep in mind the timing of your submission, as government agencies have specific review periods and might be less responsive during certain times of the year.
7. Follow Up and Compliance:
After submission, stay in touch with the agency for any follow-up information or corrections needed. Once approved, ensure your project complies with all permit conditions to avoid penalties or revocation of your permit.
Additional Resources
Permitting Agency Resources
To dive deeper into specific permits and guidelines, explore the following resources:
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United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Honolulu District:
Overview of permits for waterway and environmental projects: USACE Honolulu
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Hawaiʻi Department of Health Clean-Water Branch (HDOH-CWB):
Guidelines for water quality and pollution control: HDOH Clean-Water Branch
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Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR):
Conservation and resource management permits: DLNR Permits
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Commission on Water Resources Management (CWRM):
Water resource management and stream alteration permits: CWRM Permits
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County Departments:
Local permitting processes vary by county, so check with your local Department of Public Works or Department of Planning and Permitting.
Remember, this guide serves as a starting point. For complex projects, consider consulting with environmental specialists or legal advisors. By understanding the roles of different agencies and following the recommended steps, you can effectively navigate the permitting process and contribute to the protection and stewardship of Hawaiʻi's natural resources.