Obtaining a Groundwater NOC (No Objection Certificate) is essential for anyone planning to use groundwater in the state, as it helps regulate extraction and ensure long-term availability. The smart use of groundwater resources is a major concern in Uttar Pradesh, given its vital role in supporting agriculture, industry, and domestic needs. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the application process, requirements, and compliance measures for securing a Groundwater NOC in Uttar Pradesh.
What is a Groundwater NOC?
The Groundwater NOC is a permit issued by the Uttar Pradesh Groundwater Directorate (UPGWD) or the Groundwater Department, granting permission for groundwater extraction from approved areas. It aims to ensure sustainable and regulated use of water resources, prevent overexploitation, maintain the ecological balance, and provide equitable access to water for various sectors.
By obtaining a Groundwater NOC, individuals and entities:
- Operate legally and avoid penalties associated with unauthorized extraction.
- Ensure sustainable use of groundwater for future generations.
- Prevent contamination and maintain the purity of drinking and irrigation water.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Groundwater NOC in Uttar Pradesh
1. Determine the Type and Purpose of Groundwater Extraction
Before starting the application, identify the purpose of extraction—agriculture, industrial use, irrigation, or domestic consumption.
Your groundwater usage type will dictate the application process and documents required.
2. Identify the Concerned Authority
The Uttar Pradesh Ground Water Directorate (UPGWD) is the regulatory body overseeing groundwater management. This department is responsible for issuing NOCs.
For details, visit the UPGWD official website or contact your local Groundwater Department office.
3. Prepare Necessary Documents
The documentation varies slightly depending on the purpose and scale of extraction, but here’s a general list of what you’ll need:
- Application Form (available from the UPGWD)
- Proof of Ownership – Land ownership documents or a lease agreement.
- Proof of Identity – Aadhaar card, voter ID, or other valid ID proof.
- Site Map – A layout plan indicating the extraction site location.
- Hydrogeological Report (if applicable) – Groundwater data for large-scale extraction.
- Proposed Extraction Details – Type and capacity of the equipment to be used.
- Impact Assessment Study (for industrial users exceeding 100 cubic meters/day) – A report analyzing the social and environmental effects of groundwater use.
4. Submit the Application
Complete your form and submit it along with the required documents. Here are the submission methods available:
- Online – Apply via the UPGWD online portal.
- Offline – Submit physically at the local office of the Groundwater Department or District Council.
Pro Tip: Always keep a copy of your filled application for future reference.
5. Application Review and Site Inspection
Your application will be reviewed by the authorities. A site inspection will likely follow to ensure that the details provided in your application align with the ground realities. During this inspection, officials may verify the depth of your well, the feasibility of location, the proposed equipment, and its environmental impact.
Ensure your site is compliant with rainwater harvesting guidelines and other state-dictated sustainability codes. It is essential to implement proper Rainwater Harvesting Systems to comply with regulatory requirements. NIPSTec provides expert consultancy for free, site surveys, installation, and maintenance of groundwater harvesting systems. Now that we understand why it’s essential, let’s break down how to get your NOC in Uttar Pradesh.
6. Pay the Required Fees
Once the application is approved, you’ll need to pay the prescribed fee outlined by the UPGWD. The amount depends on factors like the scale of extraction, purpose (domestic vs. industrial), and location.
Fee payments are usually processed digitally through the online portal or manually at the department office.
7. NOC Issuance
If approved, you’ll receive your Groundwater NOC. The certificate outlines the following details:
- Permitted groundwater extraction quantity.
- Duration for which the NOC is valid.
- Specific conditions to adhere to (e.g., rainwater harvesting system installation).
Ensure you follow all instructions detailed in your NOC to maintain compliance.
8. Compliance and Reporting
After receiving the NOC, you must ensure ongoing compliance with the specified conditions. Key responsibilities include:
- Regularly reporting groundwater usage statistics to the UPGWD.
- Maintaining digital water recording systems (flow meters) where required.
- Conducting scheduled maintenance of rainwater harvesting systems.
Failure to comply may lead to fines, cancellation of the NOC, or legal action.
Applications for Issuance of No Objection Certificates
Securing a NoC is mandatory before using groundwater for any commercial, industrial, construction, or individual purposes. Here’s how specific user types can apply.
A. New Users
- Notified Areas:
Groundwater access is not allowed. - Non-notified Areas:
- Apply for a fresh NoC through Form 8A.
B. Existing Users with Valid NoC (Needs Renewal)
- Notified & Non-notified Areas:
Submit Form 8B for NoC renewal.
C. Existing Users Without Any NoC (Not Previously Applied)
- Notified Areas:
Such applications are not allowed. - Non-notified Areas:
Submit Form 8A to apply for a fresh NoC.
D. Existing Users with Expired NoC (Pending Renewal with CGWA)
- Notified & Non-notified Areas:
- Apply for renewal through Form 8B.
- District Councils process these cases with validation from the Directorate, Ground Water Department, and CGWA.
E. Existing Users with Expired NoC (Not Applied for Renewal with CGWA)
- Notified Areas:
Applications will be rejected. - Non-notified Areas:
1. Apply for fresh NoC using Form 8A.
2. Upon receiving the NoC, submit Form 1A for registration.
By adhering to these guidelines, applicants can ensure compliance and expedite their approval process.
Compliance Checklist for Online Applications
Here’s a quick compliance overview for each form type, ensuring your application isn’t delayed or rejected.
(Applicable to All Forms):
- Separate application forms for each individual well.
- The application form must be fully completed.
- Incomplete applications will be rejected.
- Any corrections/alterations must be authenticated.
- Any incorrect information during verification or post-approval will result in the cancellation of registration/NoC.
Checklist for Form 1A (Well Registration)
Documents Required:
- Proof of land ownership.
- Photocopy of Aadhaar card/voter ID/ration card/any other proof of identification.
- A map indicating the location of the existing well, the command area, and the well mentioned in item 2(a), 2(b), and 2(c).
- Affidavit for Extension of Rainwater Harvesting System: A declaration on a ₹10 non-judicial stamp paper stating that the existing rainwater harvesting system will be extended within one year if it does not meet the required annual recharge capacity (as per item 7(i)).
- Affidavit for Installing a Rainwater Harvesting System: A declaration on a ₹10 non-judicial stamp paper confirming that a proper rainwater harvesting system will be installed within one year if it was not already set up at the time of application (as per item 7(ii)).
Field Inspection Criteria:
- Verify well diameter and pumping devices.
- Status of RWH and effluent treatment systems (industries).
- Status of Flow meter verification and digital water level recorders.
- Verification of Discharge against submitted in Form
Checklist for Forms 8A and 8B (NoC Issuance and Renewal)
Documents Required:
- Requires similar documents as Form 1A.
Additional Requirements for Form 8B
- Copy of N.O.C. (item no.3)
- Affidavit for Compliance with NOC Conditions: A declaration on ₹10 non-judicial stamp paper confirming that the rainwater harvesting system has been installed as per the required capacity and that all other conditions imposed at the time of NOC approval have been met (as per item 5).
- Affidavit for No Modification of Well: A declaration on ₹10 non-judicial stamp paper stating that no changes or modifications will be made to the well, as per the details submitted in the NOC application (as per item 7).
Additional Requirements for Industrial Users:
- Affidavit on Non-Judicial Stamp Paper
A declaration on ₹10 non-judicial stamp paper confirming that no water supply is available from local government agencies, applicable when groundwater usage is up to 10 cubic meters/day.
- Certificate of Water Availability
A certificate from the local government water supply agency confirming non-availability or partial availability of fresh or treated wastewater, is required when groundwater usage exceeds 10 cubic meters/day.
- Groundwater Quality Report
Groundwater quality test results from NABL-accredited or government-approved laboratories for existing industries using bore wells, tube wells, or dug wells.
- Rainwater Harvesting Proposal
A plan for rainwater harvesting and recharge within the premises, in accordance with the Model Building Bye-Laws issued by the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs.
- Impact Assessment Report
Industries extracting or planning to extract more than 100 cubic meters/day of groundwater (in both notified and non-notified areas) must submit:
- An assessment of the impact of groundwater withdrawal on the groundwater regime.
- A report on the socio-economic effects of the extraction.
- The report must be prepared by accredited consultants.
Additional Requirements for Commercial Users:
- Impact Assessment Report (For Dewatering Projects)
If dewatering is required, a detailed impact assessment report must be submitted, including:
- A pumping plan.
- Proposed use of pumped water.
- An evaluation of its impact on groundwater levels.
- Potential environmental risks, such as groundwater decline or land subsidence.
- Management strategies to address environmental concerns.
- Affidavit on Non-Judicial Stamp Paper
A declaration on ₹10 non-judicial stamp paper stating that no other water source is available, applicable if groundwater is needed for construction in safe and semi-critical areas.
- Certificate on Treated Sewage Water Availability
A certificate from a government agency confirming the non-availability of treated sewage water for construction within a 10 km radius in notified areas.
- Certificate of Water Availability from Local Authorities
A certificate stating that water is not available from local government water supply agencies for commercial use across all assessment units.
- Water Requirement Calculation
A detailed water requirement report as per the National Building Code (NBC) 2016 (Annexure I), considering the recycling and reuse of treated water for purposes like flushing.
- Completion Certificate
A completion certificate from the relevant authority for infrastructure projects requiring groundwater for commercial use.
Navigating the Inspection Process
Field inspections play a vital role in application reviews. The District Council Task Force evaluates several factors, including:
- Dimensions and specifications of your well.
- Operational status of rainwater and effluent treatment systems.
- Data from flow meters and water level recorders.
Failing an inspection can lead to delays, so ensure your systems and documents are fully compliant beforehand. Proper maintenance of the rainwater harvesting system is essential to comply with government norms. NIPSTec specializes in comprehensive rainwater harvesting maintenance services.
Take Charge of Your Groundwater Usage
The process of groundwater registration in Uttar Pradesh ensures responsible usage and compliance with sustainable water management practices. By understanding the required documents, field inspections, and application procedures, individuals and businesses can efficiently complete their registrations without delays.
If you’re planning to register a well, ensure that you have all necessary documents ready and follow the guidelines to avoid rejections or penalties. To meet compliance and ensure sustainable water management, install a high-quality Rainwater Harvesting System. Choose the best rainwater harvesting service in Uttar Pradesh.
For more information, visit the Uttar Pradesh Ground Water Department’s official website or contact your local District Council.
