Plan Approval and Permits

A number of local, state, and federal agencies regulate work in and around streams. Before beginning any stream enhancement, bank stabilization, landscaping or building project be sure to check with these agencies for guidance and permits that will be needed.

Stream project planning assistance

Start here before project design begins. Salt Lake County's Watershed Planning & Restoration Program provides technical information and guidance to ensure that stream-related projects are designed properly. Incorrect installations can aggravate existing problems or cause new problems downstream.

Contact Bob Thompson for more information about stream project planning.

Salt Lake County Flood Control Permit

Work that occurs within 20 feet (6.1 meters) of the top of the channel bank of any "flood control facility" (which includes most streams in Salt Lake County) will require a Flood Control Permit, per Title 17 of the Salt Lake County Code of Ordinances.

Contact Salt Lake County Engineering and Flood Control for more information about a Flood Control Permit.

State Stream Alteration Permit

Any work that will alter the bed or banks of a natural stream in Utah must obtain written authorization from the State Engineer. Projects may also require additional permitting from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

State Stream Alteration Permit
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Sovereign Lands General Permit

Work along the banks of the Jordan River may require a Sovereign Lands General Permit.

Contact Utah Division of Forestry, Fire & State Lands for more information about Sovereign Lands Permitting.

Salt Lake City Riparian Permit

Salt Lake City residents may also need a Riparian Permit, per the Salt Lake City Ordinance Riparian Corridor Overlay District (RCO).

Contact Salt Lake City Development Review for more information about a Riparian Permit.