U.S. Army Corps finalizes 2026 nationwide permits affecting stream, wetland construction
(UI) — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has finalized the 2026 Nationwide Permits (NWPs), a regulatory framework that governs construction and maintenance activities in streams, wetlands and other waters of the United States—a key permitting pathway for many underground infrastructure projects.
The agency published the final rule in the Federal Register on Jan. 8, reissuing 56 existing nationwide permits and adding one new permit, designated NWP 60. The permits take effect March 15, 2026, replacing the 2021 NWPs, which expire one day earlier.
The nationwide permits authorize activities regulated under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, providing a streamlined approval process for projects with no more than minimal environmental impacts.
“Under President Trump's leadership, the Army Corps of Engineers has taken decisive action to cut bureaucratic red tape and refocus our mission on American prosperity,” said Adam Telle, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. “Ensuring that American citizens and businesses can chase their dreams and build our economy without needless delays is a clear victory for our ability to compete on a global stage during the 21st Century.”
The newly added NWP 60 authorizes discharges of dredged or fill material and related work tied to improving fish and aquatic organism passage, an area increasingly relevant for culvert replacements, stream crossings and drainage upgrades.
According to USACE, the 2026 permits largely mirror the 2021 versions, with no major changes to permit categories or scope. The program continues to support a wide range of construction activities, including stormwater facilities, road and highway projects, utility installations, and residential and commercial development.
“The nationwide permit program offers the regulated public a streamlined path to obtain timely authorization of activities that cause no more than minimal adverse impacts to the aquatic environment,” said Maj. Gen. Jason E. Kelly, USACE deputy commanding general for Civil and Emergency Operations. “These nationwide permits issued today authorize activities associated with a broad range of project types, while encouraging project proponents to avoid and minimize impacts to the nation’s aquatic resources.”
USACE division commanders may apply regional permit conditions following public review to address local environmental concerns, including protections for fisheries, wildlife habitat and ecologically sensitive areas.
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