Permitting

The Coastal Use Permit (CUP) process is part of the Louisiana Coastal Resources Program (LCRP), which is an effort among Louisiana citizens, as well as state, federal and local advisory and regulatory agencies to preserve, restore, and enhance Louisiana's valuable coastal resources.

Purpose of the Coastal Use Permit Process

The purpose of the Coastal Use Permit process is to make certain that any activity affecting the Coastal Zone, such as a project that involves either dredging or filling, is performed in accordance with guidelines established in the LCRP. The guidelines are designed so that development in the Coastal Zone can be accomplished with the greatest benefit and the least amount of damage.

Applying for a Coastal Use Permit

Coastal Use Permits can be applied for and obtained from the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources. Coastal Use Permit Applications and most associated documentation are available to the public through the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources Strategic Online Natural Resource Information System (SONRIS) database.

To access information concerning permits and applications, follow these steps:

1. Visit sonris.com.
2. Click on the SONRIS Data Portal button.
3. Click on the arrow next to the Coastal Use Permits section.
4. Click on the image next to CUP Inquiry.
5. In the main page window, click Search Coastal Use Permit Database.
6. Enter as much or as little information as desired into the search fields and click Search.
7. To access basic information about a search result, click the permit number under the "CUP Number" column on the results page.
8. To access detailed information including complete permit application; application drawings; GIS information; interagency & public comments; and copies of public notices & correspondence between agencies, applicants, and application agents, click on Electronic Files under the "Documents" column on the results page.

Please Note:

• Only permits applied for in 2006 or later are filed online. If you need information on a permit that is not filed online, please call the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources Coastal Management Division at (225) 342-7591.