Water Act.

This Act regulates the ownership, management and use of waters on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, including surface waters, groundwater and marine waters, as well as the ownership and operation of water management systems and facilities. It establishes the objectives of integrated water management, protection of water resources, reduction of pollution, and prevention or mitigation of the harmful effects of water on human life, health, the environment and economic activities. The Act defines principles for water governance, including basin-based management, prevention of pollution at source, sustainable use of water resources, and application of economic instruments.
The Act sets out the legal regime governing ownership of waters, water bodies and water management infrastructure, distinguishing between state, municipal and private ownership. It specifies categories of public state property, including rivers, lakes, groundwater, marine waters, major reservoirs and water infrastructure of national importance, as well as municipal and private ownership arrangements. It also establishes rules on acquisition of property rights, co-ownership, restrictions on ownership, and servitudes related to water use and infrastructure.
The document regulates the use of waters and water bodies, including general and individual use, and establishes a system of permits for water abstraction and use of water bodies. It defines the conditions under which water abstraction, discharge of wastewater, construction of water-related infrastructure, and other water uses may be carried out. The Act sets out procedures for issuing, amending, extending and terminating permits, including requirements for documentation, public notification, consideration of objections, and compliance with water management plans.
It further provides rules on water management planning, including river basin management plans and flood risk management plans, and defines the responsibilities of national and local authorities, including the Ministry of Environment and Water, basin directorates and municipal authorities. It establishes obligations for water users, including monitoring, reporting and compliance with permit conditions, and provides for concessions, control measures, liability, and administrative sanctions related to violations of the Act.