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Allowed Uses and Best Management Practices (BMPs)

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.

See Section 6 of the Vermont Wetland Rules for a complete list of allowed uses and detailed guidelines. The following links provide additional guidance and best management practices for specific allowed uses:

Agriculture and Silviculture

Management and Harvesting of Plants and Wildlife

  • Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species in Vermont: Noncommercial harvesting of wild foods and collection of scientific specimens are allowed for plants and animals not on the State’s list of threatened and endangered species, and in accordance with all other state and federal laws. 
  • Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping in Vermont: Anyone engaged in fishing, hunting, trapping, or taking any wild animals must be properly licensed, except under specific exceptions. 
  • Invasive Species Management: Control of non-native invasive plants is considered an allowed use under the Vermont Wetland Rules, if conducted under a plan approved by the Secretary. The Vermont Invasives website is the State’s clearinghouse of information for identifying and managing invasive species. 
  • Beaver Conflicts: Beaver play a critical ecological role in Vermont. By damming streams, they create and enhance wetland habitat for many other animals and plants. Unfortunately, beavers sometimes create dams in places where they pose significant hazards to public safety or property. In such cases, removal of dams is allowed if conducted in accordance with a plan approved by the Secretary. Follow the links below for more information about beaver management. 

Utilities

  • Solar Power: Solar projects are often cited in areas which may contain wetlands.  If you are considering a solar energy project, this brochure will provide the information you need to protect wetlands. 
  • Utility Maintenance: The routine repair and maintenance of utility poles, lines, and corridors is allowed under the Vermont Wetland Rules, provided these activities are conducted in accordance with the BMPs presented in this document.
  • New Overhead Utility Lines: The installation of overhead utility lines is an allowed use under the Vermont Wetland Rules, provided the activity is conducted in accordance with the BMPs presented in this document. 

Other Allowed Uses and BMPs