The Environment Agency has issued a warning against unauthorised building near rivers and flood defences in Bassetlaw, North Nottinghamshire.
- Unauthorised works prompts warning to residents, landowners and developers
- Environmental permits may be needed before works can begin
- Offenders could face an unlimited fine or two years imprisonment
The Environment Agency is reminding residents, landowners and developers in Bassetlaw about the law for carrying out work near main rivers and flood defences.
Among the Environment Agency's statutory duties are powers to manage flood risk from the sea and main rivers.
These types of works, known as flood risk activities, may need an environmental permit before they can begin.
The warning comes after the Environment Agency has become aware of unauthorised works in the Bassetlaw district in north Nottinghamshire.
The environment permitting process ensures that proposed works are not going to increase flood risk or cause other environmental harm.
A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said:
We are encouraging anyone planning work near a river or flood defence to seek advice early.
People may need an environmental permit before they can begin the work.
It is a criminal offence to undertake unauthorised flood risk activities and offenders could face an unlimited fine and up to 2 years imprisonment.
If people have concerns about works being carried out near a river or flood defence they should call our hotline on 0800 807060.
