Do I need to submit an application?

Per the By-Laws of the Town of Brookfield Chapter XVII Section III, the only activities exempt from wetlands permitting are:

• Maintenance or improvement of agricultural or aquacultural land
• Maintenance, repairs, or replacement of structures or facilities for public utilities, without substantially changing or enlarging them
• Emergency projects necessary for the protection of public health and safety

All other activities within the 100 foot wetlands buffer zone and protected resource areas require submitting a wetlands application.

Which wetlands application should I submit – an RDA or NOI?

Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA) is the application for smaller projects within the 100 foot wetlands buffer zone and not within protected resource areas. Such projects should not negatively impact protected resource areas.

The following example projects within the 100 foot wetlands buffer zone could be appropriate for an RDA:

• Building an accessory use to a residential structure (e.g., deck, shed, or pool)
• Removing a small quantity of failing trees
• Demolishing, repairing, or replacing an existing structure without increasing its footprint

Notice of Intent (NOI) is the application for larger projects within the 100 foot wetlands buffer zone, and for projects inside protected resource areas. Such projects have the potential to negatively impact protected resource areas unless appropriate measures or remedies are taken. It is highly recommended that you hire an engineer and/or wetlands specialist to assist with the planning and application for an NOI.

The following example projects within the 100 foot wetlands buffer zone or protected resource areas could be appropriate for an NOI:

• Building a large structure (e.g., single family home, garage, or commercial building)
• Constructing a new driveway, road, bridge, or culvert
• Installing a septic system, well, or underground utilities