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  • Borehole abstraction for testing or sampling less than 150m³ water per year

Borehole abstraction for testing or sampling less than 150m³ water per year

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This General Binding Rule (GBR) applies to the abstraction from a borehole, and any subsequent discharge of the abstracted water, if the total volume of water abstracted is less than 150m3 in any period of one year and the purpose of the abstraction is either –

  1. to test the yield of the borehole or well or the hydraulic properties of the aquifer, or
  2. to sample the water quality.

Authorisation level

General Binding Rule (GBR)

Rules

The abstraction of water from a borehole of less than 150m3 per year for testing and sampling is covered by General Binding Rules. If you intend to carry out this activity, and you comply with the rules set out below, your activity will be authorised. You don’t need to apply to SEPA for an authorisation.

If you carry out an activity under this authorisation you must comply with the rules. It is an offence to if you do not comply with the rules.

If you cannot comply with the rules, you will need a different type of authorisation.

General Binding Rule (GBR) for borehole abstraction for testing or sampling less than 150m³ water per year

  1. The abstraction must not cause the introduction to any body of groundwater of-

    1. any substance or heat which may give rise to harm to the water environment, or
    2. water of a different chemical composition,

  2. when the borehole is not being used for abstraction, it must be back filled or sealed to the extent necessary to avoid loss of groundwater from any aquifer.

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