Works on Waterways Approval
The CMA is committed to protecting and enhancing waterway health. Works undertaken on or near a designated waterway require approval from the CMA.
Applying for approval before you undertake works helps the CMA to ensure that waterways are managed responsibly. The CMA works to protect and care for waterways ensuring conservation and preservation of flora, fauna and habitat throughout the catchment.
Do I need approval?
Works and activities on or near a designated waterway require approval from the CMA. Works and activities can include:
- Building a crossing – culverts, bridge or ford
- Connecting to a waterway by pipe or drain
- Building a jetty
- Cleaning out the waterway – removing weeds and silt
Check whether you have a designated waterway on you property.
Dams and rural water use are licensed through Southern Rural Water in our region.
Water quality issues including pollution of a waterway are reportable to the Environmental Protection Authority Victoria.
Why do I need approval to do works?
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What are the guidelines for works on waterways?
- General Works on Waterways Guidelines
- Biosecurity
- Bridge
- Culvert
- Service crossing
- …………
What are the costs involved?
Base fee for approval: $275.00 inc. GST
Base fee for Waterway Advice: $165.00 inc. GST
Concession available: 15% off
Additional fees
- Approval renewal: $275.00 inc. GST
- Complex application: $220.00 inc. GST
- On site assessment/meeting request: $220.00 inc. GST
- Priority Response Request (please check if available): $220.00 inc. GST
What do I need to apply?
Files to have on hand prior to filling out application form:
- At least three photos of the site: including a view of the waterway at the proposed works location, and upstream and downstream views.
- Aerial plan indicating location of works.
- Construction plans and drawings including a cross section of the waterway, an overhead plan (detailing rock work, etc) and a side elevation view. Neat sketches will suffice for most farm or minor works.
- Crown land consent (if works are on Crown land).
- Process list generated upon completion of the Aboriginal Heritage Planning Tool – http://www.aav.nrms.net.au/aavQuestion1.aspx
- Evidence of concession (if applicable).
Are there other approvals I also need to obtain before commencing works?
As part of the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, named waterways and land within 200 metres of a named waterway are defined as areas of cultural heritage sensitivity. As such, an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) may be required to complete your work. Use this checklist to determine whether your work needs a CHMP.
If works are on Crown Land, consent will be required from the designated land manager. There may also be other approvals required. Please refer to the Works on Waterway Guidance Note (PDF).
Who can I contact with questions?
Issues or questions about applying? Contact us at:
Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority- Waterways Planning Team
A: PO Box 502 Hamilton Vic 3300
T: 03 5571 2526
E: planning@ghcma.vic.gov.au
Related information
Floodplain management
As the Floodplain Management Authority, we aim maintain the natural functions of floodplains and waterways and minimise the risks flooding poses to life, property and community assets.
Works issue notification
If you would like to report potential works undertaken on a designated waterway without Works on Waterways Approval, please complete the notification form blow and forward to the Glenelg Hopkins CMA.
Data request
Waterways and flood modelling files are available. This is a fee for service product. If you would like to request a copy of flood modelling files or other forms of data from the CMA, please complete the Date Request Form to lodge your request.
Rural Drainage Strategy
The 2018 Victorian Rural Drainage Strategy clarifies arrangements for management of Rural Drainage in Victoria. Click the link below for more information.
