Use surface water legally

In the interests of the environment, the community and fairness, it's important to understand and follow the rules regarding taking and using surface water.

Most water users are responsible and follow the conditions of their water licence.

However, each year a small number of people break the law when they 'take and use' water from a dam, stream, river, creek or irrigation channel. They may take water without an entitlement or licence, build an illegal dam or interfere with a water meter.

Sometimes these offences are deliberate, and sometimes they're because people aren't aware of the law.

The laws concerning surface water use are outlined in The Water Act 1989.

Many people taking and using surface water illegally may not realise they're doing so.

It's essential that you, as a surface water user, understand your rights and obligations concerning water resources.

If you take and use water from sources such as a dam, stream, river, creek, or irrigation channel, check your water entitlement (licence) to make sure you understand what you're allowed to do.

If you're unsure, contact us! We can help you find out if you need to alter your water entitlement.

Water is a precious and limited resource. It is critical to our economy, environment and communities. This is why water needs to be managed fairly for all water users. To ensure fair and equitable access to the region's water supply for our customers, communities and the environment, we administer a risk-based approach to our compliance and enforcement activities, ensuring they are conducted in a responsive, open, accountable and consistent manner.

To find out more see our Compliance and Enforcement Strategy