These maps show only those wetlands that are currently mapped or officially proposed for addition to the wetland maps and currently regulated under the New York State Freshwater Wetlands Act outside the Adirondack Park. They do not show ALL wetlands that may be present in an area. There may be additional wetlands on a site that may be protected under local or federal law. This map information is also available as paper maps or as digital data.
DEC occasionally amends the regulatory maps to correct errors, such as inaccurate boundaries or wetlands that are missing from the maps. These amendments are conducted through a formal process that includes public notice and an opportunity to comment on the accuracy of the amendment. When official notice of the amendment has been placed, the area proposed for addition becomes regulated and the proposed amendment changes will be included on the website. When new maps are completed, they are filed in the offices of local government clerks. At that time, the boundaries on this website are also updated.
Around every state-protected wetland is an “adjacent area” that is also subject to regulation in order to help better protect the wetland against surrounding disturbance. This adjacent area is a minimum of 100 feet, but has been extended for a limited number of particularly sensitive wetlands.
The map displayed in this application shows a “Check Zone”, which is an area surrounding a wetland, as depicted on the map, that may also contain wetlands. DEC strongly suggests that if you are considering buying land or undertaking a project within this “check zone” that you request a more precise delineation to determine where the actual wetland boundary may be. To request a delineation, please contact your Regional DEC Office.
Wetland classifications: Wetlands are classified from Class I (which provide the most benefits) to Class IV (which provide fewer benefits). The classification is based on the work that wetlands do, such as storing flood water and providing wildlife habitat. The system for classifying wetlands is contained in the New York State wetlands Classification System . Information about how any individual wetland was classified is contained in program files at the regional DEC office in which the wetland is located.
Information on how wetlands are mapped can be found at DEC's Freshwater Wetlands Mapping pages
Not all activities in wetlands are regulated. There are many exempt activities that landowners may undertake without permits, however, if you are not sure, please contact your regional DEC office to help you determine if a permit is required.
For additional information on NYS Freshwater Wetlands, see DEC's Freshwater Wetlands pages
For information on wetlands inside the Adirondack Park , please contact the Adirondack Park Agency .