A complete list of all programs within the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
Resources and information on utilizing RRD's data exchange and the Inventory of Facilities.
An interactive map displaying contaminated sites throughout Michigan regulated under Parts 213, 201, and 211.
EGLE's interactive calendar is designed to provide timely information on decisions before the Director, proposed settlements of contested cases, administrative rules promulgation, public hearings, meetings and comment deadlines, and environmental conferences, workshops and training programs.
The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides all persons (except persons incarcerated in correctional facilities) with access to public records of public bodies. Requests to inspect or receive public records from EGLE must be in writing and describe the requested records with enough detail to enable the department to identify and locate the requested records. Some records are exempt from disclosure under the FOIA or another statute and thus will not be provided. A fee may be charged to process your request. Please note that many records are available that do not require a formal FOIA request.
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Contact: For additional information, please contact your local district office.
1. What can I use as a time guide in planning and scheduling my project?
Generally it will take from 30 to 90 days from the time we receive a complete application until a decision is made on your permit. Other factors include:
2. How do I apply for a permit?
EGLE's Water Resources Division has transitioned to MiEnviro, a web-based permitting and compliance database. In 2019, the application process became fully electronic and the application is a form in MiEnviro and will be submitted through the system. You will also pay application fees online using MiEnviro.
Applications will be assigned in the system to District staff based on geographic location and project type (ex: Hydrologic Studies and Dam Safety Unit (HSDSU) and Transportation Review Unit (TRU)). Projects crossing District boundaries will typically be assigned to the District in which the majority of the work will be performed.
3. How can I know if my application has been received and is being processed?
EGLE's Water Resources Division has transitioned to MiEnviro, a web-based permitting and compliance database. MiEnviro can be used to check the status of your application. MiEnviro will send you notices when deadlines are approaching or information is required.
4. How soon will WRD staff begin working on my application?
Application processing begins when the application is received. Typically, review for administrative completeness begins within 0 to 14 days of receipt. The completeness review time ranges from 0 to 45 days, depending on how complete the application is when submitted, and the need for additional information, clarification, or fees. Once the necessary information is received, the application is processed as expeditiously as possible. Some projects may be posted for a 20-45 day public notice period.
5. What items must be submitted with an application so it can be determined "complete" as submitted, without requiring additional information?
6. Why and when would I receive a letter that requests more information?
If during the application review process your application is determined to be incomplete, you will receive notification in MiEnviro and be contacted by phone, email or letter requesting clarification, amplification, or correction of the application or additional fees, if necessary. More information may be required if the additional information provided is unclear inconsistent, or incomplete. You have a maximum of 30 days to provide all requested information to make the file complete, or the file will be closed due to administrative incompleteness. Fees are not refundable. In some instances extension requests are available and you will be notified if this is the case.
7. Once complete, how will my file be processed?
Technical review time usually ranges from 1 to 90 days. Processing times may be longer if a public notice is required or if a public hearing is held. Staff will begin the technical review and conduct a site inspection once the application is determined to be administratively complete. During the field inspection staff may determine that the application does not fully represent the proposed project and may contact you for additional information prior to making a permit decision. Decision extension requests are available, if requested by the applicant.
8. What if a federal permit is also required?
If the proposed activity is in Section 10 Waters (Great Lakes, Lake St. Clair, large navigable waters) a copy of the permit application will be sent to the Detroit District Office, US Army Corps of Engineers for processing at the federal level. (www.lre.usace.army.mil/ or call 313-226-2218). Outside of Section 10 Waters, if the permit application requires federal review due to impact, it will be sent to the US Environmental Protection Agency for comment.
9. Is there other information available to assist me in putting together a complete application?
Guidance and information is available online at EGLE/USACE Joint Permit Application Page. Additionally, pre-application meetings are available. You may contact your district office to make arrangements.
Additional Questions?
