Water Use License Applications
The National Water Act and subsequent licence requirements apply to all persons in South Africa. To make this more understandable and better managed, the National Water Act specifies 11 water uses, in Section 21, that require
licencing. Any person that engages in any of the 11 water uses needs to be authorised to do so. However, two water uses referred to as Section 21(c) and (I) require greater attention. These two water uses are designed
to prevent pollution or changes in the water resource that could render the water resource harmful or unfit for its’ purpose.
Whether you are a private homeowner or a developer that is planning on any development
near to a water resource, you may be required to obtain authorisation. If you are planning on extracting water, storing water, reducing the flow of a water resource, discharging or disposing of waste or water into a
water resource or from underground, or if you are planning on using water for recreational purposes, you may be required to obtain authorisation before engaging with the task.