Responsibilities of the 401 & Buffer Permitting Branch

Black River with Bald Cypress

The 401 & Buffer Permitting Branch is responsible for implementing water quality standards and other state regulations within the state's waters, such as lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands; riparian buffer regulatory programs; and assisting with compliance and enforcement procedures.

401 & Buffer Permitting Overview of Programs

The 401 & Buffer Permitting Branch is responsible for multiple water quality programs, including the riparian buffer regulatory programs and 401 certification programs for qualifying streams.

Click on the program links below to learn about 401 certification, isolated streams permitting, buffer authorization and buffer variance processes. Scroll down to access links to our public documents portal, Laserfiche; the permit application tracker map; and our application forms and other documents.

By navigating to the frequently asked questions menu on the right, you can link to learn more about North Carolina’s state's water resources including streams, wetlands, waters and riparian buffers.

401 & Isolated Streams & 401 Stormwater Program

Visit the 401 & Isolated Streams & Buffers page to learn about how to apply for a water quality certification or isolated streams permit and associated stormwater management planning.

Compliance Assistance Program

Learn about technical assistance provided on environmental compliance and enforcement issues across the state, how to access case files, and marina information.

Riparian Buffer Protection Program

Learn about the various riparian buffer protection programs that are implemented throughout the state.  Also find maps, clarification memos, and helpful documents.

Stream & Wetland Mitigation Program

Learn about the stream and wetland compensatory mitigation program implemented throughout the state. Also find templates, guidance documents, and mitigation bank information.

Nutrient Offset & Buffer Mitigation Program

Learn about the nutrient offset and buffer compensatory mitigation program and find templates, guidance documents, and mitigation bank information.

Application Forms & Documents

Find application forms and help documents for 401 certifications, isolated waters permits, stream determinations, shoreline stabilization and lake area residence work, and buffer authorizations and variances.

401 and Buffer-Wetlands ePayments

Wetlands ePayments will allow you to submit payment for Major and Minor water quality applications Fee Schedule: Major water quality applications: $767.00 Minor water quality applications: $323.00 In order to submit a payment, you will need the Project number and Version number

Recent Updates-Public Notices

Recent public notices include: As of Jan. 12, 2024, applicants must use the latest version of the Pre-Construction Notification Form for 401 Certifications As of Dec. 01, 2023, pre-filing meetings for 401 Certifications are not longer required; As of of Sept. 20, 2023, there are wetland rule changes.

Application Tracker Map

Check the status of pending permit applications or plan approvals via our clickable map. You may search by location, permit type, facility name, or permit number to track progress from the date of receipt of an application until a final decision is made.

401 & Buffer Permit Tracker Map

Find information on issued and completed projects with a 401 water quality certification, buffer authorization, and/or buffer variance for both Department of Transportation (DOT) and non-DOT projects on this clickable map.

Laserfiche

Find a DWR Document or Record: Laserfiche allows viewing and printing of files for projects including buffer impacts, stream determinations, mitigation, 401 certifications, and 401 stormwater management plans.

401 and Buffer Contacts

Contact information for the Central and Regional Offices