How to obtain a permit for special water use?

Water resources are a national treasure in Kazakhstan, and their use is regulated by law. If you want to use water for more than just personal needs (such as gardening, livestock, or industrial purposes), but in larger quantities, you must obtain a special water use permit.

A permit is required if you:

• take water from rivers, lakes, wells, boreholes or other natural sources for household, farm or industrial purposes;
• discharge wastewater into bodies of water;
• use water for irrigation of agricultural land;
• use water for industrial, energy or municipal needs.

Important: If you use water only for personal needs in the home (drinking, cooking, household purposes), a permit is not required.