In addition to bores constructed for Domestic and Stock and Commercial use, you may need a licence to construct an investigation or observation bore.
An investigation bore is constructed for the purpose of investigating the potential to access underground water resources at a specified location. Groundwater from an investigation bore may not be taken or used for any purpose apart from water quality testing.
An observation bore is constructed for the purpose of monitoring groundwater levels at a particular site. Bores may only be constructed to a maximum diameter of 130mm unless specifically approved by the Agency. Water may only be extracted from these bores for the purpose:
- measurement of offsite impacts
- as part of a state or authority measurement network
- observation of environmental issues
- undertaking hydro geological assessments if directed as part of an application for a licence to take and use water.