Decree No. 179/1999/ND-CP stipulating the implementation of the Law on Water Resources.

This Decree implements various provisions of the Water Resources Law of 2 May 1998.
Its provisions are divided into 5 Chapters: General provisions (I); Protection of Water Resources (II); Exploitation and Use of Water Resources (III); State Management over Water Resources (IV); Implementing provisions (V).
The Decree makes provision with respect to the management, protection, exploitation and use of water resources. It also aims at prevention of marine and freshwater pollution and of harmful effects caused by water. Article 2 further defines "river basin zoning" introduced by article 5 of the Law. Chapter II defines tasks of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in relation with protection of water resources and combating of water pollution. Article 5 provides for granting of pollution permits. Article 7, forming part of Chapter III, further regulates the distribution of water resources in accordance with article 20 of the law. It also provides for circumstances of drought. Permits for the exploitation of water resources are granted in accordance with article 24 of the Law and articles 9 to 12 of this Decree. The State management of water resources is assigned to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development under article 13. Article 15 specifies tasks of People's Committees of provinces and cities, whereas article 16 defines tasks of the National Water Resources Council. Article 17 concerns the management of river basins.