Poland's Water Authority Sets Limits on Unlicensed Water Withdrawal Amid Drought

The State Water Holding Wody Polskie issued new guidance on water extraction as Poland faces prolonged drought and rising demand. Individuals and landowners may draw water without a permit for domestic or agricultural use provided the average annual withdrawal does not exceed 5 m³ per day. Private wells up to 30 m deep can be constructed without a permit; deeper wells or larger extractions require a water‑right permit issued by Wody Polskie.

Exceeding the 5 m³ /day limit or using water for purposes beyond household or farm needs classifies the activity as a water service, obligating the holder to obtain a permit. The agency stresses that over‑extraction lowers groundwater levels, risks well drying, and intensifies drought impacts, urging rational water management to protect resources for current and future generations.