Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 401

Under federal Clean Water Act (CWA) section 401 every applicant for a federal permit or license for any activity which may result in a discharge to a water body must obtain State Water Quality Certification (Certification) that the proposed activity will comply with state water quality standards. Most Certifications are issued in connection with U.S. Army Corps of Engineer (Corps) CWA section 404 permits for dredge and fill discharges.

Available Documents

• 401 Water Quality Certification General Information Sheet
• 401 Water Quality Certification Processing Time Lines
• Instructions for Completing the 401 Water Quality Certification Application (10/09/07)
• Application for 401 Water Quality Certification (10/09/07)
• Water Quality Certification for Discharges of Dredge or Fill Materials Under CWA Section 401
  • Questions and Answers
• Dredge and Fill Fee Calculator (Excel Spreadsheet)