Boreholes and other drilling works may require planning permission, depending on their purpose, location and the nature and scale of the works involved.

Some boreholes, such as those associated with ground source heating, water abstraction, site investigations or mineral exploration, may benefit from permitted development rights. However, these rights are subject to limitations and conditions and may be more restricted within the National Park.

Other permissions or consents may also be required, for example from the Environment Agency for the abstraction of groundwater.

If you are considering installing a borehole and would like advice before carrying out the works, you should submit a pre-application enquiry to us.

If you require formal confirmation that the proposed works do not need planning permission, you should apply for a Certificate of Lawfulness for Proposed Development.