16 Apr 2025

Project Alteration Reviews: Section 408

Section 14 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 authorizes the Secretary of the Army to grant permission for alterations to existing U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects under certain circumstances. The authority is codified in 33 U.S. Code 408. Section 408 provisions apply to works that were built by USACE and are locally maintained, such as local flood control projects, and works that are operated and maintained by USACE, such as locks and dams. Proposals submitted for Section 408 review and approval undergo a rigorous engineering, policy and environmental review by USACE and, if required, independent external peer review.