Water affecting activities permits

Water affecting activities may require a permit. You need to apply for your permit at least two months before you intend to undertake the activity. Permits are usually valid for one year from the date of issue. Please note that some activities may require other approvals:

• The clearance of common reeds and bulrushes may require a water affecting activities permit or a Native Vegetation Council authorisation. Find out which approval you need.
• Some dams may require development approval from your local council. Find out which approval your dam needs.
• Wells, imported water, using effluent and commercial forestry require the approval of the Minister for Environment and Water. Find application forms for these activities.
• Private water management works require the approval of the South Eastern Water Conservation and Drainage Board. An application form can be requested by calling 08 8733 3533.

Applying for a water affecting activities permit

The process of applying is detailed in the guide to applying for a water affecting activities permit.

Step 1. To apply for a water affecting activities permit, the first step is to complete the relevant application form. Hard copies of the forms can be requested by contacting us. All applications require clear and detailed information, including a certificate of title, any plans and photographs of the proposed activity and site location, GPS coordinates if available, and consultants or engineering reports where applicable.

• Permit application form for the erection, construction or enlargement of a dam, wall or other structure to collect or divert water
• Permit application form for all other water affecting activities

Step 2. Permit application forms must then be lodged with the prescribed fee as per the instructions on the form.

Step 3. Permit applications will be assessed against the principles and objectives outlines in the Water Affecting Activity control policy and relevant Water Allocation Plan. You may be required to provide additional supporting information and receive a visit from a Landscape Officer to assist with assessing your application. Step 4. You will be notified in writing regarding your application, and you may be required to undertake additional actions in accordance with the conditions of an approved permit. If your permit application is not approved, or you disagree with any of the permit conditions, you may appeal to the Environment, Resources and Development Court within six weeks of the decision. Step 5. Upon completion of works you must notify us, and a Landscape Officer may conduct a further site visit to ensure permit conditions have been met.

Further information

• Guidelines for culverts fact sheet