Guidance

Preparing a hydrogeological impact assessment

When and how to prepare a hydrogeological impact assessment (HIA) before you apply for a groundwater abstraction licence.

Applies to England

Documents

Details

You must prepare a hydrogeological impact assessment (HIA) before you apply for a groundwater abstraction licence to: 

  • work out the risks 
  • design mitigation measures which manage the impact to other abstractions and the environment  

This guidance explains when and how to prepare a HIA before you apply for a groundwater abstraction licence.

Updates to this page

Published 13 March 2025
Last updated 20 July 2026 Show all updates
  1. Removed the list of appropriate accreditations for someone carrying out a HRA to avoid confusion if the accreditation held was not on the list. Instead, added that the appropriate accreditation must be specialising in hydrogeology.

  2. First published.

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