Waterways

Waterways

Protect the waters of the state

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Seeking Public Comment: 

The Waterways Program has prepared a draft reissuance of GP-15 for Stream Habitat Projects designed by government agencies. Please submit public comments to Crystal Von Holdt by December 21, 2022.  A virtual public hearing will be held on December 13, 2022.  Please see the DNR Hearings and Meetings Calendar for details.

You can help us preserve Wisconsin waters for current and future enjoyment.

Why We Regulate Waterways

Waterway regulations keep waterways safe and accessible to all Wisconsinites
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All Water Permits

Find the permits you need for your waterfront property projects in the DNR’s ePermitting system
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Construction Projects

Explore waterways regulations related to construction projects, including dredging, ponds and a variety of structures
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Shoreline Protection Projects

Explore waterways regulations for stream bank erosion control, lakeshore maintenance, and beach maintenance
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Waterways Contacts

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Waterway Cleanup FAQ

Determine what permits may be required for cleaning up debris on waterways from storms and other natural hazards
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Crossings

Explore waterways regulations for bridges, culverts, fords, and temporary crossings
Crossings

Water Levels

Find waterways regulations for lake levels, withdrawals and irrigation, and information about dams
Water Levels

Recreation Projects

Explore waterways regulations for boat structures, piers and docks, buoys, and more
Recreation Projects

Habitat Projects

Find waterways regulations for aquatic plant management, fish habitat projects, and other wildlife habitat activities
Habitat Projects

Waterways Permit Process

Review key aspects and timelines for general and individual waterways permit applications, such as fees and exemptions
Waterways Permit Process

Construction Projects

Construction
Dredging and Grading Project Permitting
Miscellaneous structures
Dry hydrants
Nonmetallic Mining and Cranberry Operations Projects Waterways Permitting
Pilings
Grading
Ponds and Fish and Wildlife Habitat Structures
Intake/Outfall, Pilings, Dry Hydrants, and Miscellaneous Structures Permitting

Shoreline Protection Projects

Stream bank erosion control
Vegetated armoring erosion control
Beach maintenance
Placing erosion control structures on Great Lakes
Stream realignment and enclosure
Shoreline Erosion Control Structures Permitting
Riprap Erosion Control
Weed rake
Lake shore erosion
Seawall erosion control
Biological shore protection

Water Levels Projects

Water levels
Water Withdrawals and Irrigation Permitting
Lake levels

Crossings Projects

Crossings Permitting

Recreation Projects

Piers and Recreational Structures Permitting
Water ski platforms
Piers, docks and wharves
Boat ramps (landings)
Boat shelter
Boathouse repair
Swimming rafts
Pea gravel blanket
Mooring buoys

Habitat Projects

Habitat
Beaver damage
Fish and wildlife habitat structures
Cranberry projects
Habitat and outdoor recreation contacts