Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999 SI 662 (NI 6)

The Water (Northern Ireland) Order sets out measures to combat and prevent pollution of waterways and groundwater in Northern Ireland.

The Order applies in Northern Ireland only.

What is the Water (Northern Ireland) Order?

The Water Order sets out the role, functions and responsibilities of the Department of the Environment and their duty to protect the environment from water pollution. It gives the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) powers to:

  • issue notices to businesses and apply for a court order to prevent or remedy pollution
  • introduce regulations to further prevent pollution
  • regulate the abstraction and impounding of water
  • introduce charging schemes
  • carry out engineering or building operations and acquire land.

Who does the Water (Northern Ireland) Order affect?

The Order applies to all businesses and individuals in Northern Ireland.

What do you have to do?

You must gain consent from the NIEA to discharge effluent into waterways or groundwater or to abstract or impound water.

See our guidance on:

How are the regulations enforced?

The NIEA enforces the Water Order. The NIEA may issue notices and apply for a court order to prevent pollution or remedy it. If you are guilty of an offence, you risk imprisonment for up to three months or a fine of up to £20,000, or both.

Further information

  • Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999 SI 662 (NI 6)

    Revokes and replaces the Water Act (Northern Ireland) 1972 and makes provision for discharge consents. Enables the DoE to set water quality objectives and prevent pollution from anti-pollution works.