Water Use Permitting
What is it?
Water Use Permits (WUPs) or Consumptive Use Permits (CUPs) is a regulatory authorization from a Water Management District required to withdraw a specific amount of groundwater or surface water for reasonable-beneficial uses, such as public supply, agriculture, or industrial irrigation. It ensures water resources are protected, sustainable, and new usage do not harm existing legal users or the environment.
Who needs this service?
- Agricultural/Irrigation: Large-scale crop, nursery, and golf course irrigation.
- Commercial/Industrial: Businesses requiring large volumes, including beverage processors and power generation.
- Public Water Suppliers: Utilities supplying drinking water to the public.
- Dewatering/Mining: Large-scale construction dewatering or mining activities.
- Large Wells: Wells with an inside diameter of 8 inches or greater.
What does it include?
- Demand Calculations: Projecting water needs for 20 years.
- Impact Modeling: Groundwater modeling to assess drawdown impacts on wetlands and neighbors.
- Conservation Plans: Strategies to minimize waste.
Why is it important?
In “Water Use Caution Areas” (e.g., CFWI, SWUCA), water is scarce. Expert permitting is required to prove that the withdrawal is sustainable. Operating without a permit can lead to well shutdowns and ignoring this requirement can lead to costly delays, enforcement actions, or permanent impacts on project viability.
Deliverables
- WUP/CUP Application: Completed agency forms.
- Limiting Conditions Compliance: Plans to meet permit rules.
Let’s Get Started
Don’t invest in land without knowing the facts. Contact us today to schedule your Water Use Permitting and ensure your investment aligns with your goals.
