In Virginia, a permit is required for stream crossings having watersheds greater than 3000 ac or where modification of wetland areas would occur. This is a joint permit process involving US Army Corps of Engineers, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and Virginia Marine Resource Commission.

Completion of the permit application requires some basic knowledge of the wetland delineation process, general construction techniques, and basic surveying skills. The permit itself is a 41-page document plus addendum, but not all sections are applicable. Submitting a copy to all three agencies simultaneously can accelerate the actual application process and the applicant should remember to answer all applicable questions as incomplete files are delayed. An on-line copy of the permit is available at the following Internet address: http://www.deq.state.va.us/.

It took approximately 12 man-hours to collect the data, fill out the forms and apply for a bridge permit.