Pea Gravel Blankets

Question: I want to place a layer of pea gravel in a lake to create a swimming area. Do I need to obtain a permit and/or pay a fee?

Answer: A permit is required for placement of pea gravel on the bed of a lake. This includes any areas below the ordinary high water mark, even if it is exposed lakebed. A fee is required.

Note that pea gravel blankets are not allowed on a stream, creek, or river bed because the material does not withstand the currents. Sand is not generally permitted, due to its movement from the site, and its impacts to habitat. Pea gravel is not permitted in wetlands or sensitive habitat areas of lakes. If you have any questions, please contact the Water Management Specialist covering the county where your project is located.

If your project design meets certain standards you may be elgible for a General Permit.

• Pea Gravel Blanket General Permit Application [Form #3500-53O, PDF 83KB]
• Fee Sheet [Form #3500-053A, PDF 105KB]

If you cannot meet the general permit requirements, Please follow the steps below to file your application for a Pea Gravel Blanket Permit. Open and print BOTH of the following files:

• Pea Gravel Blanket Permit Application [Form #3500-53O, PDF 83KB]
• Fee Sheet [Form #3500-053A, PDF 105KB]

Send the completed application materials, along with the fee and Fee Sheet, to the county where your project is located.

Notes

Applicable statutes and codes include Section 30.12(3)(a)1, Wis. Stats. [exit DNR], [PDF 627KB] and Chapter NR 329, Wis. Adm. Code [exit DNR], [PDF 42KB].

Local permits and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations may also apply. We advise you to contact your local zoning office and your regional U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office [exit DNR].