What you need to know if you use water from a well
During prolonged power outages, autonomous water supply becomes an important advantage. However, improper use of subsoil resources may lead to fines or even an obligation to liquidate a well.
When a Permit Is Not Required
A permit is not required if the well:
- is located on private land;
- is used exclusively for personal household needs;
- has a water intake of up to 5 m³ per day.
Formally, the limit for general water use is up to 300 m³ per day, but it is the 5 m³ per day threshold that determines whether water abstraction is considered special water use.
Up to 5 m³ per day — no permit is required.
When a Permit Is Required
Any water abstraction exceeding 5 m³ per day is considered special water use.
In such cases, a special water use permit is required.
Who May Apply
- an individual;
- a legal entity;
- a sole proprietor (individual entrepreneur).
How to Submit an Application
An applicant may submit documents:
- in person;
- through an authorised representative;
- by post (registered letter);
- online via the Ministry of Environment portal:
- https://eco.mepr.gov.ua/services/dozvil-na-specialne-vodokoristuvannya
Required Documents
- Application for issuance of a permit.
- Justification of water demand with a monthly standard calculation of water use and wastewater discharge.
- Description and scheme of water intake points and wastewater discharge points.
- Standards for maximum permissible discharges of pollutants (separately for each outlet).
- Approved individual technological standards for drinking water use (for public utilities and water supply / wastewater entities).
- Copy of title documents for the water body (if the applicant is a lessee).
Result
- Special water use permit (in case of a positive decision);
- Refusal letter (if there are legal grounds).
The result may be obtained in person, through a representative, by post, or online at:
https://e-services.davr.gov.ua/
Is a Water Meter Required?
Yes. A water metering device is mandatory for all wells, regardless of whether a permit is required.
The meter records actual water abstraction and protects the owner during inspections.
Consequences of Violations
The consequences may prove much more costly than obtaining the permit itself.
Ukrainian legislation provides for fines and, in certain cases, even criminal liability.
Administrative Liability
In cases of significant pollution, criminal liability may apply: a fine of up to 500,000 UAH or imprisonment for up to 5 years.
Conclusion
A private well provides autonomy but requires compliance with legal requirements.
Proper water use helps avoid fines, preserve natural resources, and ensure stable water supply for households.
This information material has been produced as part of a project implemented by the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) with funding from the European Union. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the DRC. Neither the European Commission nor the DRC can be held responsible for the content of this material.
