If you wish to extract groundwater in more than just minor quantities, you need a permit under water law. You can apply for this permit from the competent authority. The authority will review your application and decide whether to grant you a permit.

If a formal permit is to be granted, the authority must conduct a formal administrative proceeding. During this process, interested parties have the opportunity to comment on the project. The authority publicly announces the project for this purpose and, if necessary, holds an oral hearing.

The permit specifies the type and extent of use. It may be subject to conditions and ancillary provisions. Unlike an authorization, a permit can be revoked by the authorities. A formal permit does not confer a legal right to use groundwater.

You do not need a water law permit if you extract groundwater only in small quantities and without adverse effects on the water balance, for example, for

• your own household,
• watering your garden,
• agricultural operations,
• watering livestock, or
• draining property.