Which federal law requires a permit for construction near wetlands?

The Clean Water Act is the federal law that mandates permits for construction activities near wetlands. This act aims to restore and maintain the integrity of the nation's waters, including wetlands, by regulating discharges of pollutants and requiring permits for various activities that could potentially harm water bodies. Under the regulations established by the Clean Water Act, activities such as filling, draining, or altering wetlands require a permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This ensures that any construction near wetlands undergoes careful evaluation to prevent damage to these sensitive ecosystems, which play a crucial role in water quality and habitat protection.

The Rivers and Harbors Act primarily addresses obstructions to navigable waters and focuses more on the regulation of activities impacting navigation rather than explicitly protecting wetlands. The Coastal Zone Management Act deals with coastal zone management rather than specifically targeting permits for wetland construction activities. The Army Corps Construction Regulations are a part of the enforcement mechanism under the Clean Water Act but do not represent a standalone law requiring permits.