Do you need a water authorisation
In Scotland controls over activities which may affect Scotland’s water environment are regulated by The Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 (as amended) (or CAR). It may be necessary to obtain the permission of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) before carrying out an activity.
The level of authorisation required will depending on the type and scale of activity you are carrying out. The different types of authorisations are:
- General Binding Rules (GBR)
- Registration
- Licence
You should refer to the CAR Practical Guide to determine what type of authorisation you may require.
CAR Practical Guide: SEPA: Controlled Activities Regulations (CAR) A Practical Guide
In Northern Ireland controls over activities which may affect Northern Ireland’s water environment are regulated by The Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999 and The Water Abstraction and Impoundment (Licensing) Regulations (Northern Ireland 2006, as amended by The Water Abstraction and Impoundment (Licensing) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007. The Water Framework Directive(external link opens in a new window / tab) places controls over water abstractions and impoundments to make sure the directive’s objectives for water bodies are met.
It may be necessary to obtain the consent of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) before carrying out an activity.
You should refer to the DAERA website for further information: Water | Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (daera-ni.gov.uk)
You are responsible for ensuring that you understand and comply with all applicable legislation wherever your site is located. If you have any concerns, or require clarification, contact your environmental regulator before taking action.
Further Information
Sector/activity specific guidance for water authorisations - https://www.netregs.org.uk/environmental-topics/permits-licences-and-exemptions/water-authorisations-by-sector-or-activity/