Excavation permits and rules in Delaware

Anyone digging in Delaware has to notify Delmarva 811 before work starts. The notice period under Del. Code tit. 26, §§ 801 to 813: not less than 3 business days, but no more than 12 business days, prior to the day of the commencement of such work.^{1, 2, 3}

Delaware licenses contractors through the Delaware Division of Revenue. Who needs a license: Any person engaging in business in the state as a contractor; $75 license fee. Mandatory contractor business license registration with the Division of Revenue, with no trade exam; nonresident contractors also post a bond.^{4, 5}

A stormwater permit is needed at 5,000 sq ft for an approved sediment and stormwater plan; 1 acre, or less if part of a larger common plan, for Construction General Permit coverage. Coverage is under the Delaware Construction General Permit, NPDES DE 0051268 (state permit WPCC 3082/20, effective March 11, 2026), under the Delaware Sediment and Stormwater Regulations 7 DE Admin. Code 5101.^{6, 7, 8}