Check if you need permission to do work on a river, flood defence or sea defence
You may need permission to do work on or near a river, flood defence or sea defence.
These rules apply to England only. There are different rules for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
There are different ways of getting permission, depending on whether you’re working on:
- a sea defence or main river (including its flood plains and flood defences) - check which are main rivers
- other watercourses
You can be prosecuted and may be fined or go to prison if you do not get permission when you need it.
Main rivers and sea defences
Check if you need a permit - you might just need to tell the Environment Agency about your work.
If you already have a flood defence consent you do not need to apply for a new permit.
Other watercourses
For work on or near all other watercourses you must apply for Ordinary Watercourse Consent.
Apply by contacting either:
- the internal drainage board (IDB) in your area
- your lead local flood authority through your local council or the Environment Agency
Environment Agency
enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk
Telephone: 03708 506 506
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Find out about call charges