Licence

Abstract and/or impound water (Northern Ireland)

You need a licence to abstract and/or impound water in Northern Ireland

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You need a licence from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to abstract and/or impound water in Northern Ireland.

Abstraction is defined as the removal of water from the natural environment by mechanical means, pipe or any engineering structure or works. It applies to water removed or diverted permanently or temporarily, even if the aim is to transferring the water to another part of the natural environment.

Obtaining a licence does not give you legal rights to the water or access to land. This should be obtained prior to applying for the licence.