The process of securing regulatory permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) can seem challenging and overwhelming. However, the ACOE’s goal is to earn and maintain the public’s trust and work together with applicants to improve the process.
Tips for permit success
Dudek regulatory specialist Laurie Monarres offers applicants five tips to expedite permit issuance:
ACOE permits are necessary for any work, including construction and dredging, in the nation’s navigable waters.
- Keep up – Familiarize yourself with the latest policies and technical guidance, and provide detailed and accurate applications.
- Kick off – Bring your projects to the ACOE in the early stages to gain and incorporate agency feedback, modifying projects as necessary to ensure they are able to be permitted.
- Work together – Working collaboratively with regulators is more effective than working in a vacuum. Communicate often to ensure you understand what they are asking for.
- Respond quickly – When the ACOE requests information, provide it in a timely manner. It’s easier for a regulator to process an application when they can focus on a project that maintains momentum.
- Speak up – If there are issues that need to be resolved, don’t be afraid to voice your opinion. Give positive feedback and praise. Let the ACOE know when something goes well.
Sharing knowledge at ACOE discussion
Recently, Monarres (former ACOE Regulatory North Branch Chief of the San Francisco District) participated in a panel discussion at the ACOE Executive Training Seminar, sharing with District Commanders and other staff from around the nation applicants’ and consultants’ perceptions and experiences with ACOE permitting. “The agency understands the challenges and wants to work with applicants to improve public perception of permitting,” Monarres said. “They want to make the process more collaborative and less overwhelming.”
Monarres’ experience being on both sides of the permitting process provides a unique perspective that is beneficial to both applicants and regulators. Implementing lessons learned from working with and for regulatory agencies, Dudek helps applicants navigate the permitting process so that projects are completed on time and within budget.
For more information or assistance with permitting and regulatory compliance, contact Laurie Monnares, permitting specialist, at lmonarres@dudek.com or 415.321.5315.