General rules: what you need to know

General rules apply to certain activities within our working area. In such cases, you do not need authorisation request authorisation from the water board. The general rules are designed to ensure safe, clean, and sufficient water. On this page, you can read about when general rules may apply, how you can check whether your activity falls under these rules, and what your responsibilities are.

Would you like to know more about certain activities that are subject to general rules? Then visit our information pages about activities.

What are general rules?

General rules are conditions set out in the Water Board Regulations. These apply to certain activities without you first authorisation . By complying with these rules, you contribute to maintaining water quality, water safety, and a properly functioning water system.

Examples of activities with general rules:

  • Planting or removing trees and shrubs near waterways.
  • Placing structures near waterways
  • Scattering the ashes of a deceased person on the water.

Duty to provide information

General rules often apply in combination with a duty to provide information. See the page Duty to provide information: what you need to know.

What are general rules about?

General rules apply to activities that affect the water system. Examples include maintaining ditches, installing small structures, or temporarily using water. These rules ensure that you can work safely and responsibly without disrupting the water system.

How do I know if general rules apply?

To determine whether general rules apply to your situation, you can perform a Permit Check via the Omgevingsloket (Environment Desk). This will provide an overview of what applies to your activity. 

What general rules apply?

You can find the general rules that apply to your situation on our information pages about activities or at Tailored measures in the Omgevingsloket.

What are my responsibilities in situations involving general rules?

Although you do not authorisation , you remain responsible for the consequences of your activity. This means that you:

  • carries out the activity safely, without causing risks to water quality, water quantity, or water safety;
  • the water board requests customized regulations if your activity does not (fully) comply with the general rules;
  • adjust or discontinue the activity if it turns out that it does have negative consequences.

authorisation ownership

Is the location where you carry out the activity (partly) owned by someone else? Then you will authorisation private law authorisation from the (co-)owner. If that (co-)owner is the water board, please contact the Land Use Team via our contact form or via our general telephone number 072 582 8282. 

The land properties of the water board can be found on this map:

Frequently asked questions

What happens if the general rules or permit requirements are violated?

If someone carries out an activity without complying with the general rules or without the required licence, we can take (enforcement) action.

Can I ask the water board for advice?

Yes, you can always contact us for advice about your activity.

Questions or need help?

Do you have any questions or are you having trouble figuring something out? Feel free to contact us via our contact form or our Customer Contact Center (KCC) at 072 582 8282. 

We are happy to help you. Together, we can ensure safe, clean, and sufficient water!