Published: 2023-06-06
Hungary plans to remove the requirement for a permit in the construction and use of domestic, garden, and agricultural irrigation wells. Currently, the government obliges individuals to notify authorities and apply for permits before any construction takes place.
New Regulations for Shallow Wells: What’s Changed?
As of January 2024, people will no longer need an official permit for the construction and use of shallow wells, which are no deeper than 50 meters and only meant for domestic and agricultural use. These wells should not affect the first aquifer or be located in a protected area that requires special attention owing to water resource preservation reasons. The government will consider any previously constructed shallow wells without a permit automatically regular and permitted from 2024.
Previous System Failures
The current system has not prevented unauthorized wells from being installed incorrectly, as several homeowners chose not to follow the complicated authorization process. It has become difficult to estimate how many of these wells are in operation in Hungary.
Free, Filtered Water App in Budapest
An application is available to guide Hungary's capital city's inhabitants to locations where they can access free and filtered water. Perfect for those concerned about maintaining healthy drinking habits and protecting the environment. Featured photo via Pixabay
Questions & Answers
What is the current regulation regarding private wells in Hungary?
Currently, an official permit is required for the construction and use of a well in Hungary because the groundwater resource is the exclusive property of the state. Even a simplified procedure has been possible since 2020, but the permit procedure has been maintained.
What changes will come into effect in Hungary regarding private wells?
From January 2024, the obligation to notify the authorities of the establishment of domestic, garden, and agricultural irrigation wells will be abolished, and no permit will be required for digging such wells. Shallow wells previously constructed without a permit will automatically be considered regular and permitted from 2024.
Which wells will be fully exempt from the official procedure in Hungary after the new regulation comes into force?
The above-mentioned wells, which are no deeper than 50 meters, do not affect the first aquifer, are for domestic and agricultural use, and are not located in an area that needs to be protected for water resource protection reasons, will be fully exempt from the official procedure.
What is the purpose of the new regulation in Hungary regarding private wells?
The new regulation aims to resolve the prior inconsistency in the installation of shallow wells and to make it easier for individuals to install wells that do not pose a risk to the water resources in Hungary.
What should the owners of privately owned shallow wells pay attention to according to the new regulation in Hungary?
The owners of privately owned shallow wells, mainly garden wells, should pay attention to the limitation of the amount of water used according to the amended rules in Hungary.
