How to Apply

Applying for a land use permit and/or water licence is a straightforward process.  Understanding and adhering to the following steps can help ensure that applications are complete and can be processed in a timely manner:

  1. Proponents should contact the appropriate Land and Water Board to meet the regulatory staff who will be managing/processing/adminstering the application. The appropriate AANDC Inspector will also be invited to participate in these initial discussions.
  2. Proponents will be given a list of reviewers/stakeholders whom they should contact. The level of discussions that should take place as well as the information that should be recorded during these discussions will be explained by regulatory staff. Community input may result in changes to the application which is why engagement needs to be started well in advance. Effective and timely engagement with communities can help clarify expectations and initiate the respectful dialogue that should continue throughout the project.
  3. Proponents should seek guidance from Board staff in order to ensure the appropriate level of detail is included in the application form and the supporting documentation. Note that there are more extensive information requirements depending on the nature and scale of the project (e.g. a type A water licence requires much more technical information than a type A land use permit). Supporting information should include:
    1. Evidence supporting the proponent’s right of access to the land and/or an agreement with the landowner;
    2. A spill contingency plan written in accordance with AANDC’s Spill Contingency Guidelines, 2007;
    3. A waste management plan developed in accordance with the MVLWB’s Guidelines for Developing a Waste Management Plan, 2010;
    4. For projects requiring a type A or B water licence, a closure and reclamation plan developed in accordance with the guidance provided by the respective Land and Water Board.
  4. Once the application undergoes review, the proponent has the opportunity to respond to reviewers’ comments in order to provide the Board with additional details that will help the Board consider the application.

Guide to the Gwich’in Land Use Permit and Water Licence Application Process

GLWB Land Use Permit Application Form

GLWB Water Licence Application Form