Under the Water Management Act 1999 a dam permit is generally required for all dams except in circumstances such as:
- a dam that is not on a watercourse and that holds less than one megalitre of water
- a dam constructed for the primary purpose of storing waste as defined in the Act.
In addition to a barrier across a watercourse, a "dam" includes an excavation in a water course and a flood levee, both of which also require a permit under the Act.
As a general rule, any works in a watercourse may require a permit and should be referred to the Department of Primary Industries and Water. Your local Regional Water Management Officer can assist you in determining if a permit is required under the Water Management Act 1999.
Applyling for a Dam Permit