Surface water
Overland flow
Overland flow water is water that runs across the land after rainfall, either before it enters a watercourse, after it leaves a watercourse as floodwater, or after it rises to the surface naturally from underground.
Dams
In Queensland, under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008, dam safety is the responsibility of the owner. The owner may be liable for loss and damage caused by dam failure or loss of water, so knowledge of correct design and construction techniques is essential.
Protocol - Authorised Taking of Water without a Water Entitlement under the Water Regulation 2002
The Protocol - Authorised Taking of Water without a Water Entitlement under the Water Regulation 2002 may only be used by a constructing authority as defined under section 2 of the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 (such as state government departments or local governments), to take water in accordance with sections 52AAA and 52AAB of the Water Regulation 2002 without the need for a water permit or water licence. Water may be taken in accordance with the Protocol for projects that are for the construction or maintenance of infrastructure that the constructing authority may lawfully construct or maintain.
Riparian water access
Under Section 20 (3) of the Water Act 2000 an owner of land adjoining a watercourse, lake or spring is authorised to take water for stock or domestic purpose without an entitlement.
To see if your land meets this criteria, see the Riparian Water Access (PDF, 114K)* fact sheet.
Operational works (e.g. pump) used to take water for stock and domestic purposes under Section 20(3) of the Water Act 2000 are self-assessable developments. Refer to Self-assessment code for riparian access works on a watercourse, lake or spring for more information.
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Last updated 30 March 2012
