The Metropolitan River Protection Act (MRPA) was enacted in 1973 to protect the water quality and environs of the Chattahoochee River.

Any project proposing land-disturbing activity or the addition of impervious surface within 2,000 feet of the Chattahoochee River bank must first be approved by staff for compliance with MRPA. Approval must be obtained before any permit for construction or land disturbance can be issued.