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Environment
Water planning
In 2007 all surface water areas within the Augusta - Margaret River Shire were proclaimed due to the increasing pressures on these water resources and a need for better management. All groundwater resources in the region have also proclaimed.
Proclaimed Areas
In proclaimed areas under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 it is illegal to take water from a watercourse or groundwater aquifer without a licence. Applications for water licenses are made through the regional offices of the Department of Water.
Are you planning to construct a Dam
Prior to applying to the council for a dam development it is important that you contact the regional office of the Department of Water to determine if a water licence is required. Contact details are:
Department of Water (DoW)
South West Office
35-39 Mc Combe Rd, Bunbury WA 6231
PO Box 261, Bunbury, WA 6230
ph: 08 9726 4111
fax: 08 9726 4100
Geographe-Capes District Office
72 Duchess Street, Busselton
PO Box 269 Busselton WA 6280
ph: 08 9781 0188
fax: 08 9754 4335
Through the proclamation process the Department of Water set allocation limits for the amount of water that can be extracted from each creek line within the Shire. The Department of water assessment will determine if there is sufficient water available in the system to take. This takes into consideration water requirements to maintain environmental flows in the creek line to maintain the ecological function of the system. If granted a water licence you will be given security over that water.
Will all water use need licensing?
Domestic use and stock watering do not require licensing however it is always a good idea to talk to the Department of Water to ensure that the correct process is followed
For more information contact:
Customer Service Officer, Customer Service Centre
- Hours
- Mon - Fri: 8.00am to 4.30pm
- Telephone
- 08 9780 5255
- Fax
- 08 9757 2512