Water Protection Zone Exemption

If your business is located in or near a water protection zone (waterbeschermingszone), you need an exemption from the province before carrying out certain activities. Water protection zones surround groundwater extraction points and other drinking water sources, and strict rules apply to prevent contamination.

You apply for the exemption at the provincial government (provincie). The province evaluates whether your activity poses a risk to the drinking water supply and may grant the exemption with conditions, such as restrictions on the use of chemicals or requirements for soil protection measures.

Requirements

  • Location: Your activity takes place within a designated water protection zone
  • Activity description: Detailed description of the planned works and substances used
  • Environmental impact: Justification why the activity will not have harmful consequences for the drinking water supply

Procedure

  • Competent authority: Province of Fryslân
  • Application method: Submit application to the province, possibly via the Omgevingsloket (Environmental Permit Desk)
  • Assessment: The province assesses whether the activity is compatible with groundwater protection
  • Conditions: Conditions may be imposed to protect the drinking water

Restrictions

  • Prohibited activities: Certain activities may be completely prohibited in water protection zones
  • Use of substances: The use of harmful chemicals may be restricted or prohibited
  • Inspection: The province may conduct inspections to ensure compliance with conditions