Lakeshore Permitting Assistance

Whether you’re planning to fix storm damage, refresh your shoreline, rebuild a dock, or make improvements around your property, projects near the water often come with important steps, including determining if you need a Vermont shoreland permit.

The Orleans County Natural Resources Conservation District (OCNRCD) is offering a new, year-long pilot program in 2026 to help you figure it all out with confidence and clarity.

What This Program Does

Our goal is simple:
Make the shoreland permitting process easier to understand and easier to complete, while helping protect the lakes you love.

We provide:

  • Answers to questions about what activities require a state permit
  • On-site visits (when appropriate) to look at your proposed project
  • Help preparing application materials
  • Guidance on lake-friendly practices
  • Coordination with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
  • Support from start to finish, so you’re never stuck guessing what’s next.

This program focuses on responsible, well-planned lakeshore projects that keep properties safe and lakes healthy.

Why This Matters

Shoreline zones are some of the most dynamic and vulnerable parts of a lake environment. When vegetation is removed, slopes are altered, or soil is exposed, even small projects can unintentionally lead to erosion, runoff issues, water-quality impacts, and increased flooding risks—all of which can affect both the lake and the property itself.

These same natural features also support important wildlife habitat, from birds and pollinators to amphibians and small mammals. Small project choices can help maintain that habitat without limiting what a landowner wants to accomplish.

 

This program is designed to make things easier for landowners by helping you:

  • Avoid costly mistakes that come from misunderstandings or missed permit requirements
  • Prevent project delays caused by incomplete applications or follow-up requests
  • Reduce future property issues, such as erosion, washouts, or runoff problems
  • Protect your shoreline investment by using practices that improve long-term stability
  • Feel confident that your project aligns with state requirements from the start
  • Incorporate simple habitat-friendly options that support wildlife without complicating your build.
  • Have a knowledgeable local contact to help navigate questions and coordinate with DEC
     

 Our goal is practical and straightforward: support landowner in completing their projects smoothly, efficiently, and in a way that protects both their property and the lake they love.

How the Pilot Works

Timeline: January-December 2026

Model: Fee-for-service

Cost: This pilot uses a clear and consistent billing structure:

  • $305 flat rate, covering the first 4 hours of assistance. This amount is billed when the contract is assigned.
  • $76 per additional hour for time beyond the initial 4 hours, billed upon completion of the contract.

Getting Started is Simple:

  1.  Reach out early to talk through your project idea
  2. Schedule a consultation (virtual or on-site depending on need)
  3. Work together to determine whether a shoreland permit is needed
  4. Get help preparing a completed application
  5. Move forward confidently, knowing your plan considers both state requirements and lake stewardship

Contact Us

If you're considering lakeshore work in 2026, early planning is key. Reach out anytime.

Will Marlier, Lake Watershed Program Specialist

Will.Marlier@orleanscountynrcd.org

 

 FAQs

What is this pilot program? 

It's a year-long service offered by OCNRCD to help landowners understand whether their lakeshore project requires a shoreland permit, and to assist with the permitting process. This includes guidance, application preparation support, and coordination with DEC.

Why was the program created? 

Many lakeshore projects require state review, but the rules can be difficult to navigate. People often want to comply but aren’t sure where to start. The pilot provides local, accessible support.

Do you issue permits? 

No. OCNRCD does not issue permits. We provide assistance, while the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation handles permitting decisions.

Is this a regulatory program? 

No. OCNRCD is not a regulatory agency. Participation is voluntary.

What types of projects might require a state shoreland permit? 

Common examples include:

  • Deck expansions
  • Slope reshaping or grading
  • Removal of trees or vegetation
  • Shoreline stabilization work

Because rules vary, and circumstances differ across properties, we can help you figure out what applies to your situation. If something is uncertain, we will say so directly.

What if I’m not sure whether my project needs a permit? 

That’s exactly when to contact us. We can talk through your project and help determine next steps.

Do you offer site visits? 

Yes—when a site visit would help clarify questions about the project or property.

Is there a fee? 

Yes. The service uses a structured fee model:

  • $305 flat rate, which covers the first 4 hours of assistance. This amount is billed at the time the contract is signed.
  • $76 per additional hour beyond the initial 4 hours. Additional hours are billed upon completion of the contract.
Do you work with lake associations? 

Yes. If associations want to help share information or support outreach, we welcome collaboration.

Does this program guarantee that my permit will be approved? 

No. Final decisions are made by DEC.

What we can do is help ensure your application is complete, clear, and based on best practices, which can reduce delays and confusion

Does participating obligate me to move forward with a project? 

No. You can use this service simply to learn what would be required.

What lakes are eligible for the Lakeshore Permitting Assistance Program? 

Any lakeshore property in Orleans County. 

How do I sign up? 

Contact OCNRCD directly to describe your project and schedule a consultation.

Will Marlier, Lake Watershed Program Specialist, Will.Marlier@Orleanscountynrcd.org