Ordinary watercourses - applying for consent for works

Did you know that if you wish to undertake certain types of work on a watercourse, you need to obtain consent before you commence?

What type of work needs consent?

Both permanent and temporary works affecting a watercourse may require consent. Temporary works could be the damming of a watercourse to allow permanent work such as the installation of a bridge.

Only certain types of work require consent. When considering if your works require consent, consider if they would affect the flow of the watercourse when it's full to the top of the bank. If the flow of the watercourse, when it's full to the top of the bank, will be affected the work will need consent.

If you're not sure if your proposals will need consent, please contact us. If you wish to get advice on whether it's possible to carry out a scheme without the need for consent, please contact us. Work can often be undertaken in more than one manner. Our guidance, which is attached to this page, gives examples of consentable and non-consentable works.

Does the consent have a time limit?

Depending on your proposals, a conditioned consent may be given for you to carry out the work, for example a certain time of year, in order to reduce flood risk and potential ecological damage.

Your consent will also only be valid for a period of three years. This is because the resultant effects of the scheme may change due to other factors that have developed since the application was first made.

How do I apply?

To make an application, complete the application form (available to download on this page) and return it to us. Sufficient additional information must be included in order for us to determine the suitability of your proposals. You must demonstrate that your proposals won't have an adverse effect on flood risk or the environment. You must also submit an application fee. This is currently £50.

Your application will be determined within two months of receiving a valid application. A valid application includes a completed application form, appropriate details of your proposals and the application fee.

Please read our guidance notes to ensure you include all the relevant information required for validation.

How do I pay?

You can pay the application fee by card by calling us on 01743 255493 (7am-3pm Monday to Thursday).

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