wetlands

Certain activities are allowed in Class I or Class II wetlands without a permit. Allowed uses must follow guidelines specified in Section 6 of the Vermont Wetland Rules, and must comply with all other applicable laws. Examples of allowed uses include certain agricultural and silvicultural activities, certain utility operations and maintenance, low-impact recreational activities, certain activities relating to scientific research and education, and ordinary residential activities in existing lawns.

The State of Vermont protects wetlands which provide significant functions and values and also protects a buffer zone directly adjacent to significant wetlands. Wetlands in Vermont are classified as Class I, II, or III based on the significance of the functions and values they provide.

This section of the Vermont Wetlands Program website is a clearinghouse of wetland resources from Vermont and beyond. Whether you’re a landowner, student, teacher, natural resources professional, or interested community member, the links below will provide you with the information you need to learn about, conserve, protect, and/or restore our valuable wetland resources. 

Mapping of hydric (poorly drained wet) soils and aerial interpretations of wetland locations are useful tools for land use planning. 

Wetlands serve a variety of functions and values beneficial to the general public and to the environment. The degree to which a wetland serves these functions depends on the hydrology, soil, vegetation, size, and location of the wetland in the landscape. Although a wetland may not serve all functions, each wetland works in combination with other wetlands as part of a complex integrated system.

Wetland Identification and Delineation
Wetland Functions and Values
Wetland Types in Vermont 

The Watershed Management Division participates in “special studies” when the need arises, such as: 

The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation's Watershed Management Division monitors the water quality of lakes, ponds, rivers, streams and wetlands across Vermont.

The Environmental Assistance Office provides permit assistance through Permit Specialists located in the Agency of Natural Resources' (ANR) five regional offices. The Permit Specialist’s primary job duty is to serve as the initial state contact for applicants and assist them in identifying all necessary state permits or approvals for any given project. This allows applicants to make informed business decisions about the cost and length of time required to comply with all state regulations.