Prohibition: what you need to know

Within our management area, certain activities may be prohibited. This applies to activities that under specific circumstances or at specific locations have a major negative impact on water safety, water quantity or water quality. On this page you can read what a prohibition means, what activities it may apply to and what you can do if you are faced with a prohibition.

Want to know more about certain activities where bans may apply? Then visit our activity information pages.

What is a ban?

A prohibition means that a certain activity may not be performed. This may be because:

  • the activity is not permitted at a specific location, or
  • the activity is prohibited under certain circumstances.

A prohibition cannot be waived, even with a permit or custom rule.

When can a ban be in effect?

The State Water Board currently has bans in only a limited number of cases. Examples of activities where a ban applies:

  • Commercial discharges of domestic wastewater: Discharges are prohibited in specific waters to protect water quality.
  • Groundwater withdrawals for other purposes: An extraction ban applies in sensitive groundwater areas to protect the water balance.

These prohibitions were established to prevent serious risks to water quality, water safety and water quantity.

Permit Check

We recommend always using the Environment Counter via the Permit Check check. This allows you to check whether your situation is subject to a ban and what other rules apply.

What can I do in the event of a ban?

When faced with a ban, it is wise to investigate why the ban is in place. Possible solutions include:

  • Modify location: Consider performing the activity at a different location.
  • Changing conditions: Investigate whether the activity is possible under modified conditions.

If in doubt, please contact us. We are happy to think with you and offer tailored advice.

Questions or need help?

Still have questions or can't figure it 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 ensure safe, clean and sufficient water!