Help/Assistance

For assistance information and materials please visit http://www.dco.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Prevention-Policy-CG-5P/Marine-Transportation-Systems-CG-5PW/Office-of-Bridge-Programs/.

Other sources of help, information, and references:

Subject matter expert contact information:

(206) 220-7282 or (206) 220-7277

D13-SMB-D13-BRIDGES@uscg.mil

U.S. Coast Guard Bridge Permit

Description/Purpose

Federal law prohibits the construction of any bridge across navigable waters of the United States unless first authorized by the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard approves the location and clearances of bridges through the issuance of bridge permits or permit amendments, under the authority of the General Bridge Act of 1946, Section 9 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, and other statutes. This permit is required for new construction, reconstruction or modification of a bridge or causeway over waters of the United States.

Triggers and activities which would require this permit

Construction or modification of bridges over navigable waters. "Navigable" waters is a legal determination that is not contingent on the waterway actually being navigated. Contact the Coast Guard Bridge Program to determine if a waterway is "navigable" and if the project will require a bridge permit. No other agency has the authority or expertise to make this determination.

Explanation/Description of costs/fees, including statutory, regulatory, or other legal authority for fees

None.

Application Information

There are a number of items to be included with the application. The best source of information can be found at http://www.dco.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Prevention-Policy-CG-5P/Marine-Transportation-Systems-CG-5PW/Office-of-Bridge-Programs/ .

Project specific questions can be directed to the Coast Guard Bridge Administrator at (206) 220-7282.

Issuance of a permit is dependent on the impacts the proposed project will have on navigation and the environment. The project will need to demonstrate consistency with the Clean Water Act Section 401, Coastal Zone Management Act, Endangered Species Act, National Historic Preservation Act, and a NEPA determination.

Submit your permit application along with all requisite supporting documentation to:
   Commander (dpw)
   Thirteenth Coast Guard District
   Attn: Bridge Administrator
   915 Second Avenue Suite 3510
   Seattle, WA 98174-1067
   D13-SMB-D13-BRIDGES@uscg.mil

The permit is good for three years from the issuance date to start the project and five years from the issuance date to finish the project, but longer duration may be requested. Once the project is complete, the permit is good for the life of the unmodified, in-use bridge.

Denial of permit may be appealed to Commandant of U.S. Coast Guard within 60 days of District Commanders decision, and Commandant will take action within 90 days of receipt.

Legal authority
Notes / Comments

None.

Related Entries
Contacts
United States Coast Guard, Section 9 Bridge Permit
Commander 13th Coast Guard District
Attn: Bridge Administrator
915 Second Ave, Room 3510
Seattle WA 98174-1067
Website: http://www.pacificarea.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/District-13/District-Divisions/-dpw/-bridges/
Telephone: (206) 220-7282
Fax: (206) 220-7265
Triggering Questions
  • Will the project involve the construction or modification of bridges over "Navigable Waters of the United States"?
* Credential details last updated 4/9/2024
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