Meeting with BLM staff before filing an application is not required, but it is strongly encouraged because it can save time and expense.  Applicants can discuss and describe their proposals in person and in detail, and the BLM can explain how applications are processed and what information is necessary. 

Reviewing the application form SF-299 before the meeting familiarizes someone planning to apply for a ROW with the topics s/he can expect to discuss during the meeting.  A filled-out form may be brought to the meeting, may be filled out during the meeting, or submitted later, if additional time is needed to complete it.

A map of the project area can be helpful during the meeting and is required in Item 8 of the application form.  The BLM realty specialist or land law examiner will explain the fee schedules associated with ROW proposals, potential safety issues, work schedules, and other specifics of the application. 

The meeting may take place at the site of the proposed ROW or in the BLM Field Office that has jurisdiction over the lands involved in the proposal. 

> "Obtaining a Right-of-Way on Public Lands" | brochure (PDF)
>   for Applicants | BLM ROW Application homepage

      During the pre-application meeting, the BLM can begin to consider:

• possible constraints on the proposed route for the ROW
• whether the lands are located within an existing ROW or previously designated corridor
• processing and monitoring fees, rents, and other costs
• how long it might take to process this application (tentative estimate)

      For more complex applications, a BLM planning specialist, resource 
      specialists and an agency manager may join the realty specialist 
      and the applicant during the pre-application meeting.
     

Case Examples

APPLICANT #1: An individual holding a small linear ROW grant that is about to expire wishes to renew the grant.

The applicant visits the BLM Field Office and meets with a realty specialist before filing the renewal application.  The expiring ROW was originally granted 30 years ago, and there have been notable changes in the process since that time.  The realty specialist takes time to explain these changes and discuss options for right-sizing the ROW.

APPLICANT #2: A telecomm provider plans to erect a tower on BLM-managed land.

The pre-application meeting gives the realty specialist an opportunity to explain the need for environmental and cultural clearances and the timeline for processing the application so the commercial applicant can make sound business decisions on the project.