Water Management Act 1999

A person must not, without a licence, take – water from a watercourse, lake or well; or dispersed surface water; or water from a tidal area that a declaration under section 5A relates to. Fine not exceeding 500 penalty units and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further fine not exceeding 50 penalty units for each day during which the offence continues.

However, subsection (1) does not apply to the taking of water under and in accordance with – Part 5; or an exemption under section 11; or a permission under section 90; or an authorisation under section 90A; or a direction under section 280D; or an irrigation or other right under the Irrigation Clauses Act 1973.

Also, subsection (1) does not apply to the taking of water directly from a dam or other works if the water in the dam or works has previously been taken under and in accordance with this Act.

A person may apply for a licence under section 62 or a special licence under Division 6.