Mississippi Coastal Wetlands Protection State Act

Under Miss. Code Sections 49-27-1 through 49-27-69 (Coastal Wetlands Protection Law), the Mississippi Commission on Marine Resources, through the Department of Marine Resources, has exclusive jurisdiction over the dredging, filling, alteration, or pollution of coastal wetlands in the three coastal counties. A coastal wetlands permit is required before any regulated activity, including bulkhead construction, pier extension beyond statutory limits, marsh fill, or channel dredging. Permits are evaluated against the public interest standard balancing economic benefit, ecological impact, and navigation. Local governments cannot authorize activities prohibited by the Act, though they may impose additional zoning controls outside wetland boundaries.

Unpermitted alteration of coastal wetlands carries civil penalties up to $10,000 per day, restoration orders, and misdemeanor liability under Miss. Code 49-27-65.