Water impoundment licence
Water impoundment refers to structures within inland waters that can permanently or temporarily change the water level or flow, such as:
- Dams.
- Weirs.
- Fish passes.
- Hydropower turbines.
- Sluices.
- Penstocks.
- Culverts.
- Lock gates.
- Retaining walls.
- Flumes.
- Reservoir embankments.
- Temporary diversions during construction work.
Ref https://www.gov.uk/guidance/water-management-abstract-or-impound-water#impoundment
It is necessary to have an appropriate licence before work begins on a water impoundment structure - even in the case of an emergency. For more information, see Apply for a water abstraction or impoundment licence. There are certain impoundment activities with low environmental risks or other conditions where exemptions to this rule may apply.
The Environment Agency may take enforcement action against those who do not apply before impounding water. Further details are available from Water management: abstract or impound water
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Environment Agency.
- Environmental engineering.
- Environmental impact assessment EIA.
- Hydrogeological Impact Appraisal HIA.
- Passive dewatering.
- Raising awareness of dewatering regulation.
- Water abstraction licence.
- Water engineering.
- Water management.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.
The importance of early engagement
Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.
Mayors are to be given planning call in powers
Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.
The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.
Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.
Building Safety Regulator, 19 August
Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.
Connecting knowledge, technology and conservation
Building competence for the future of built heritage.