AWC is seeking information and feedback on whether recent federal regulatory changes are causing significant delays in permitting for maintenance and repair activities for in-water structures, including docks and bulkheads. The National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS) now requires that typical repair and maintenance projects go through formal consultation; previously they were reviewed informally. Formal consultations require substantial additional documentation and increase the review period
by several months.
The new requirement has reportedly created a backlog of work as the agency does not have sufficient staff to conduct consultations on every project. To address the problem, the agency has established a consultation process to facilitate timely review.
In the meantime, it appears all processing of individual permits has been placed on indefinite hold.
AWC would like to hear from cities who are experiencing delays or difficulties because of this issue. Please contact AWC Government Relations Advocate Carl Schroeder to share your feedback.