Permit requirement: what you need to know

A permit is the document that gives you permission from the State Water Board to perform an activity. The permit contains Requirements you must adhere to. These prevent your activity from negatively impacting water safety, water quality and water quantity. This is how we protect the water system together.

A permit states:

• What you will do: a clear explanation of the activity;
• what is important for the site: the Requirements depend on the location, such as near a dike, waterway or protection zone;
• How you may perform it: for example, what materials or methods you may use;
• measures to prevent damage: such as protecting against pollution or flooding;
• What you should check and report: during and after the activity is performed.

Not all activities within our scope require a permit. You need a permit for activities that pose risks to water management. Examples of activities that may require a permit are:

• discharges to surface water: for example, wastewater or other substances;
• placing structures in or along waterways: such as bridges or dams;
• Groundwater withdrawals: where water is taken from the ground;

Not only what you do, but also where you do it, is important. For example, a permit is needed more often near water barriers than at locations with only surface water. If there is no permit requirement, general rules often apply. Often this is in combination with a duty to provide information.

Permit Check

We recommend always using the Environment Counter via the Permit Check check. This allows you to check whether your activity requires a permit and what other rules apply.

You can apply for a permit via the Omgevingsloket. Here you log in with your DigiD or eHerkenning (for companies). In the Environment Counter you must:

• indicate the location of your activity;
• Choose the form associated with your activity;
• fill in the required data and add documents, such as Maps or reports.
• indicate how you involved the surrounding area in your plans and how they responded to your plans.

Importance of a complete application

A complete application is important for prompt processing. Missing information may cause your application to be temporarily halted. Therefore, check carefully that you have included all information and documents. 

Draft request

Do you want to have your application checked for completeness first? Then make a draft request first during your application. This way you will avoid missing important information in your final application. 

Learn more

Do you have more questions about how to apply for a permit through the Environment Counter? Please consult the Help Center of the Environment Counter for additional support. Want more information about a particular activity? Then visit our activity information pages. There you will find a step-by-step explanation for common activities and what requirements apply there.

Procedure

Once you have sent your application via the Environment Counter, you will receive a confirmation of receipt. We will then check whether your application is complete. If any mandatory information is missing, we will temporarily halt processing until you provide the missing information. Once your application is complete, we will assess whether your activity fits within the rules and whether additional measures are required.

Guideline

In reviewing your application, we use a guideline. This document provides us with clear frameworks for assessing whether your activity is compliant and safe for the water system. You can view the guideline via the following link: [link to permitting guideline].

Terms

The standard time limit for processing an application is eight weeks. Sometimes it can be longer or extended. This happens, for example, if additional information is needed or your activity is complex. We will inform you of this.

Cost

To apply for a permit, you pay a fee. How high these costs are depends on the nature and scope of your activity. Current rates can be found in our fee regulations.

Note: Even if your application is denied, you must pay the application fee.

Objection  

Would you like to object to (a decision about) a permit? You can do so within six weeks after publication. We publish granted permits on officielebekendmakingen.nl. You can read how to object on the page Object to an administrative decision.  

Permission to use property 

Is the location where you perform the activity (partially) owned by someone else? Then you need private permission 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.  

Water Board land properties can be found on this Map:

• Land properties HHNK

Do I always have to apply for a permit?

No, it depends on the activity you want to perform and especially on the location. For example, at a water barrier, a permit requirement often applies, while the same activity at a location with only surface water, for example, may have an information requirement.

Therefore, do the Permit check on the Environment Counter to check whether a permit is required for your activity.

What happens if I don't apply for a permit?

If you perform a licensed activity without a permit, we can take (enforcement) action. 

Can I add to my application after I submit it?

Yes, you can supplement your application while it is still pending via 'My Environment Counter'.