318 AUTHORIZATION
A 318 Authorization may be required for activities that cause temporary turbidity in state water. It applies only to work carried out in the water.
AGENCY: Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)
-
WHO IS THIS PERMIT FOR?
A 318 Authorization may apply to applicants completing work in state water that may temporarily increase turbidity.
If your project also requires a 310 Permit or SPA 124 Permit, the 318 requirement may be addressed during that review process.
-
DO I NEED A 318 AUTHORIZATION?
You may need a 318 Authorization if your project involves work carried out in state water that will temporarily increase turbidity.
If you are applying for a 310 Permit or SPA 124 Permit, do not submit the Joint Application directly to DEQ. You will be notified during that review if a direct 318 application is required.
APPLY & SUBMIT
BEFORE YOU START:
See what information, photos, plans and project details you may want to have ready.
Prepare Before You Apply →
-
1. COMPLETE THE JOINT APPLICATION FORM IN GILLY
Create an account, start your application and work through the required project information. Gilly saves your progress as you go.
-
2. SUBMIT TO MONTANA DEQ
If you are not applying for a 310 Permit or SPA 124 Permit, submit your completed Joint Application Form directly to Montana DEQ with the required fee.
If your project is also going through 310 or SPA 124 review, the 318 Authorization may be handled during that review process. DEQ says it may be obtained from DEQ or waived by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks during the 310 or SPA 124 review process.
-
REVIEW:
Montana DEQ reviews direct 318 applications. If the project is also going through 310 or SPA 124 review, the 318 requirement may be addressed during that process.
-
REVIEW TIME:
Typically 30–60 days after the application and required fee are received.
-
FEE:
$250 for a direct 318 application.
-
ADDITIONAL PERMITS NEEDED:
Other permits or agency approvals may also be required depending on the project.
318 AUTHORIZATION PROJECT EXAMPLES MAY INCLUDE:
-
Stream and Bank Projects
Bank Stabilization: Installing riprap, bioengineering or other stabilization that temporarily disturbs the stream or increases sediment.
Stream Restoration: Reshaping channels, restoring habitat or completing other stream enhancement work.
-
Crossings & Infrastructure
Culvert Work: Installing, replacing or repairing culverts where construction may temporarily increase turbidity.
Stream Crossings: Building or repairing crossings that require work within the stream channel.
-
In-Stream Construction
Excavation & Grading: Moving soil or sediment in or near the streambed.
Construction Activities: Other short-term work in or near surface water that may temporarily increase sediment or cloudiness.
318 AUTHORIZATION RELATED INFORMATION
Prepare Before You Apply →
Understand the Permit Process & the Joint Application Form →
Learn More About 318 Authorization →