What is the purpose of this permit program?

To streamline the permitting process for restoration projects that directly benefit fish or their habitats. The applicant's project must meet certain requirements outlined in RCW 77.55.480.

If a project meets the qualifications of the HRPP, then it is exempt from review under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) and local and state permits or approvals, other than the permit issued under this program - Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) - and those minimally necessary as a requirement of participation in federal program.

Who issues this permit program?

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)

What activities require this permit program?

Any restoration activity for the benefit of fish or their habitats, that will use, divert, obstruct or change the natural flow or bed of any of the salt or fresh waters of the state.

How much will this permit program cost?

There is no charge for an HPA.

Where can I get the application for this permit program?

The application is called 'Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA)' is online and can be accessed at https://www.govonlinesaas.com/WA/WDFW/Public/Client/WA_WDFW/Shared/Pages/Main/Login.aspx.

Do I need to include anything with my application?

Yes. Your application must include general plans for the project and complete plans and specifications for: the proposed construction or work within the mean higher high water line in salt water or within the ordinary high water line in fresh water, and; the proper protection of fish life.

Your application must also include the HRPP supplemental application form and any additional documentation of proof requested therein. On the same day, you must provide a copy of the application and materials to the local government within whose geographical jurisdiction the project will be located, potentially affected federally recognized tribes, and to the members of the Multi-Agency Permitting (MAP) Team.

Is the decision on my permit program dependent on anything besides the information in my application?

The decision to accept your permit for review is not dependent on anything besides the information provided in a complete application.

How long will it take to review my application?

WDFW has 45 days to make a determination on the application. The local government within whose geographical jurisdiction the project will be located, potentially affected federally recognized tribes, and members of the MAP Team have 25 days to raise a concern regarding the project's impact to human health, public safety, or the environment or that the project's scope or complexity renders it inappropriate for streamlined review. The review process is detailed in RCW 77.55.480.

Where do I submit my application?

You must submit your application, including the supplemental form and any additional documentation, to WDFW using the online Aquatic Protection Permitting System (APPS). APPS will walk you through the steps to apply for an HPA, using the Standard Hydraulic Project application. For additional information on the application process, please contact APPS staff at apps.help@dfw.wa.gov or HRPP staff at hpapilotprogram@dfw.wa.gov. At the same time, you must submit a copy of your application to the local government within whose geographical jurisdiction the project will be located, potentially affected federally recognized tribes, and members of the MAP Team.

How long is my permit program valid?

The HPA permit is valid for up to 5 years.

What is the appeal process for the permit program?

If WDFW or the MAP Team, including the local government, determines that your project does not meet the requirements for the Habitat Recovery Pilot Program, you may file an informal appeal request to WDFW under WAC 220-660-460 or a formal appeal request to the Pollution Control Hearings Board under WAC 220-660-470. Alternatively, you may reapply for an HPA under the full permitting process as per Chapter 77.55 RCW, including any additional permits and approvals required by the local government and other state agencies.

Notes / Comments:

Please visit the HRPP webpage for additional guidance and information. We encourage early engagement with the local, state, federal and tribal governments, including the HRPP Coordinator and Habitat Biologists at WDFW.

Where can I get permitting assistance?

Web page URL: https://wdfw.wa.gov/licenses/environmental/hpa/types/pilot
Helpdesk phone: 360-902-2422
Subject matter expert phone: Gina Piazza - 360-890-0312
Subject matter expert email: gina.piazza@dfw.wa.gov
Other: HRPP webpage which includes the MAP Team roster, Permit Table, and Supplemental Application Form.

* Permit information last updated 1/3/2024