Wetland Regulation & Permitting

Ramsey-Washington Metro Washington District regulates construction activities near or within wetlands. Any project that may temporarily or permanently impact a wetland requires a Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) application, unless specifically exempted under Rule E of the District’s regulations.  

If your project impacts a wetland, additional requirements under the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) may apply. The District processes WCA requests for all areas within our boundaries except in St. Paul. Please contact the city of St. Paul for WCA requirements within their boundaries.  

Ramsey-Washington Metro Washington District regulates construction activities near or within wetlands. Any project that may temporarily or permanently impact a wetland requires a Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) application, unless specifically exempted under Rule E of the District’s regulations.  

If your project impacts a wetland, additional requirements under the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) may apply. The District processes WCA requests for all areas within our boundaries except in St. Paul. Please contact the city of St. Paul for WCA requirements within their boundaries.  

Wetland Regulation and Permitting

To determine if your project is near a wetland, use our interactive wetland inventory map. Please note: 

  • This map does not represent all wetlands in the District.  
  • Wetland boundaries are approximate.  
  • A wetland delineation may be required for proposed development near a wetland.  

Wetland Violations

The Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District investigates reports of potential wetland violations under the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) and follows a structured process to ensure compliance.  

If a violation is suspected, staff will assess the report, conduct a site investigation if necessary, and reach out to the property owner. Enforcement actions may be taken to restore impacted wetlands and maintain compliance with regulations.  

For guidance on wetland regulations, permitting, or delineation requirements, see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) below or contact Nicole Maras nicole.maras@rwmwd.org.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 

  1. What is the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA), and why is it important? 
  1. What activities require a Wetland Conservation Act Application? 
  1. How do I know if my project is near a wetland? 
  1. What is a wetland delineation, and when is it required? 
  1. What documents do I need to submit with my WCA application? 
  1. Is there a fee for wetland applications?  
  1. Who processes WCA applications in St, Paul? 
  1. How long does the WCA permitting process take? 
  1. What should I do if I suspect a wetland violation?