What types of construction projects do not require permits?
Certain activities within or along the Tennessee River are not considered obstructions and therefore do not require a TVA Section 26a permit if they are conducted on privately owned land. Activities may still require local, state, or federal permits. See list of activities below. Please note, however, that permission must be obtained from TVA before conducting any activities on TVA land. If you are planning an activity on TVA land, contact the appropriate TVA Watershed Team member first! • Removal of materials such as trees, tree stumps, brush, or sand and gravel from a streambed is not construction of an obstruction unless the material removed is piled in or along the stream, river, or reservoir in such a way as to create an obstruction. • Excavation (dredging) of a new channel or enlargement of an existing channel is not construction of an obstruction unless it involves blocking, restricting, or draining the old channel. • Excavation of a trench for a submarine sewer, telephone, or o
