Watercourse, Wetland and Buffer Zone Activity Permit

When do I need a watercourse, wetland, and buffer zone activity permit? 

Activities for which you need a permit include, but are not limited to:

• dredging;
• stream enhancement;
• impoundment maintenance;
• installing culverts/bridges;
• temporary stream crossings (forestry);
• constructing ponds;
• surface water irrigation;
• wharf/breakwater repair or construction;
• slipway repair or construction;
• tree cutting in a buffer zone; and
• landscaping in a buffer zone.

The Watercourse, Wetland and Buffer Zone Activity Guidelines [7Mb] document contains explanatory information which is intended to provide guiding principles for planning a watercourse, wetland or buffer zone activity or reviewing a proposed activity.

What do I need to apply?

Your application must have sufficient information to allow the department to evaluate the impact of your proposed activity on the environment. You must include a map or diagram that clearly shows the location of the proposed activity. Your application must also be signed by the registered property owner on whose land the activity takes place.

How long will it take to obtain a permit?

You should allow at least 4 weeks to process your request.

Incomplete applications cannot be processed and will be returned.

What is the cost of a permit?

Fees are outlined in the Watercourse, Wetland, and Buffer Zone Activity Permit Application Form. Make cheques payable to the Minister of Finance.

Who can I contact for more information?

Areas west of Hunter River:

Kevin Arsenault (Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Supervisor)
Communities, Land and Environment
Western Forest District Office
Telephone: (902) 854-7260
Fax: (902) 854-7448
Email: kxarsenault@gov.pe.ca(link sends e-mail)

Hunter River and east:

Jason Affleck (Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Technician)
4th FloorJones Building
11 Kent Street
Charlottetown, PEI
Telephone:  (902) 569-0589
Fax: (902) 368-5830
Email: jbaffleck@gov.pe.ca(link sends e-mail)