Your responsibilities as owner of a private watercourse

​If you own a watercourse, you are responsible for ensuring that:

• litter and pollutants do not enter the watercourse
• there are no obstructions or impediments to the flow of water
• grates or outlets within your property are kept clear of debris at all times
• any work you do in relation to a watercourse must comply with the Stormwater Bylaw
• any related earthworks must comply with the provisions of the Unitary Plan and the Stormwater Code of Practice.    

Examples of works done on a watercourse

• Design and construction of pipes or other structures (requires a building consent[link])
• Earthworks around or in your watercourse
• Maintenance.

If you don't comply

If you do not carry out your responsibilities as a watercourse owner, we could serve you notice under:

• section 511 of the Local Government Act
• sections 13 and 14 of the Litter Act 1979
• the Resource Management Act 1991.

You could also face:

• civil proceedings with an affected property owner if you don't carry out your responsibilities and cause damage to their property
• notice from us for any breach of the Stormwater Bylaw
• an environmental infringement notice and fine
• a litter notice and fine.