NSW Government
Water

Licensing and approvals

Before you use, take, or trade water, or start work on waterfront land in NSW, you must obtain all necessary licences and approvals.

Close up of a water meter

Water Assist

Not sure where to start with your water licence or approval enquiry?

Water Assist is an easy step-by-step tool to help you find the information and support you need for water licensing and approvals.

Start here

Undertake activities on waterfront land

Controlled activity approvals
Coastal floodplain drainage approvals

Take or use water

Water supply work and/or water use approvals
Water Act 1912 licence
Basic landholder rights bore

Obtain water

Zero share access licence
Specific purpose access licence
Water licence options for Aboriginal peoples

Divert floodwater on a floodplain (e.g. build a bank or levee)

Flood work approvals

Groundwater dewatering or build a dam

Dewatering
Dams

Trade water

Trade

Referrals

Integrated development
State significant development and infrastructure
Strategic and statutory planning

Related links