Ordinary watercourse consent

Information about the consent required to work on or near to any ordinary watercourse in the borough.

Under section 23 of the Land and Drainage At 1991, there is a legal requirement to seek consent from the LLFA before carrying out works on or near to an ordinary watercourse even of the works are temporary and not permanent.

Consent is also required for any repair or maintenance works carried out to any existing structures within or adjacent to a waterbody that may have an impact on the risk of flood within the area.

If any works that require consent are to be carried out on a main river, as defined by the Environment Agency (EA), you should discuss directly with the EA or find further information on the EA website.

How to apply?

Applications for consent to carry out works on or adjacent to an ordinary watercourse should be submitted directly to the LLFA, including the correct fee and supporting documentation.

You can download an application form and guidance notes below

To avoid any unnecessary delays, please make sure you have checked the following;

  • The watercourse is not defined as a 'main river';
  • You have provided all the relevant information required on the application form in accordance with the watercourse consent guidance notes;
  • Provided supporting documents including a site ​location plan;
  • Send the correct fee with your application. Failure to supply supporting documentation and/or fee may result in your application being invalid.

How much does it cost?

Fees will be charged at £50 per structure or activity, please ensure cheques are made payable to Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council. Please do not send cash with your application.

Should you require any assistance with your application please contact Lyndsey.hall@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk or telephone 01287 612343.​