Flood Risk Activity Permit - What is it, and do I need one?

The specific type of FRAP you require will depend on the nature and complexity of your project. The Environment Agency primarily issues two types of Flood Risk Activity Permits:

Standard Rules Permit

These permits are designed for lower-risk activities that align with pre-defined rules set by the Environment Agency. If your project falls within these standard rules, the application process is generally simpler and faster. These are for specific activities and are not for complex projects. They have strict rules that must be followed. These are usually for smaller projects.

General Guidelines for Standard Rules Permits

Standard Rules Permits are typically suitable for activities that:

• Are low-risk: The activity has a minimal potential to impact flood risk.
• Adhere to pre-defined rules: The activity falls within specific parameters the Environment Agency sets.  
• Are relatively simple: The project is straightforward and doesn’t involve complex engineering or environmental considerations.
• Are small in scale: The activity affects a limited area and has a limited impact on water flow or floodplain storage.
• Routine Maintenance: Many routine maintenance tasks are performed on existing structures or small-scale works.
• Specific pre-defined works: The environment agency has very specific works that fall under these rules.

Examples of Activities That Might Qualify for Standard Rules Permits

• Minor repairs to existing structures.
• Small-scale bank protection works.
• Simple culvert maintenance.
• Some small land drainage projects.
• Works that fall within particular environment agency guidelines.

Bespoke Permit

Required for more complex or higher-risk projects that don’t fit the standard rules. Involves a more detailed assessment and tailored conditions to adequately manage flood risk. The Environment Agency will assess your project’s specific risks and set out conditions that must be followed. These are required for complex projects that do not fit the standard rules criteria.

General Guidelines for Bespoke Permits

Bespoke Permits are typically required for activities that:

• Are high-risk: The activity has a significant potential to impact flood risk.
• Deviate from standard rules: The activity doesn’t fit within the pre-defined parameters set by the Environment Agency.
• Are complex: The project involves intricate engineering, environmental, or hydrological considerations.
• Large in scale: The activity affects a substantial area and significantly impacts water flow or floodplain storage.
• Novel or non-standard activities: Activities that are not commonly encountered or covered by standard rules.
• Works that alter flood storage capacity: Any works that will reduce the area’s ability to store flood water.
• Works that change the flow of a main river: Any works that will alter the natural flow of a main river.

Examples of Activities That Likely Require Bespoke Permits

• Construction of new structures within a floodplain.
• Significant alterations to riverbanks or channels, such as sheet piling.
• Large-scale culvert installations or modifications.
• Major land drainage projects.
• Bridge construction or modifications.
• Dredging of a river.
• Flood defence construction.

Explanation of the required permit type

Determining whether your project requires a Standard Rules or Bespoke Permit is crucial. We can help you assess your project and identify the appropriate permit type, ensuring a smooth and compliant application process.

Key Considerations

• Proximity to Main Rivers: Activities closer to main rivers or within floodplains are more likely to require Bespoke Permits.
• Impact on Water Flow: Activities that significantly alter water flow or levels are more likely to require Bespoke Permits.
• Floodplain Storage: Activities that reduce floodplain storage capacity are more likely to require Bespoke Permits.
• Environmental Sensitivity: Activities in environmentally sensitive areas are more likely to require Bespoke Permits.
• Environment Agency Guidance: Always refer to the Environment Agency’s official guidance and consult with their representatives for specific advice.

Recommendation

• A Standard Rules Permit might be suitable if your project is small-scale, routine, and fits within the Environment Agency’s pre-defined rules.
• A Bespoke Permit is likely required if your project is complex, large-scale, or has a significant potential to impact flood risk.
• When in doubt, always seek professional advice.

View the detailed guide on each permit type.