33 U.S. Code 408, or Section 408, provides the authority for USACE to grant permission for alterations or modifications to existing USACE civil works projects. Any individual, organization, or government entity seeking to alter, modify, or use any part of a federal project must obtain permission from USACE. This review and permitting process ensures that the proposed changes do not impair the usefulness of the project and are not detrimental to the public interest.

Getting Started

• Section 408 & You – an overview of Section 408 and the process of seeking a permission.
• Seven Questions for Section 408 Success – a short guide with questions for permission seekers to consider as they begin their request to the program.
• Section 408 Pre-Application Meeting Guide – a one-page guide designed to help permission seekers get the most out of a pre-application meeting with their Section 408 coordinator.
• Section 408 Process Guide – an in-depth guide to the program and the process of seeking permission to alter a Civil Works project from start to finish.

Regional Categorical Permission (RCP)

• Regional Categorical Permission - Document that contains description of the categories and instructions on the program. This process allows the USACE to streamline reviews of the most common types of Section 408 requests.
• NEPA Document - Outlines and establishes programmatic environmental compliance for the RCP program.

Contact a Section 408 Coordinator

Section 408 requests begin at the district level. Use the District Civil Works Boundaries map to identify the supporting district office your project is located.