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Class C: Development by drainage bodies
Class C permits a drainage body to carry out works in, on or under a watercourse or land drainage works where required for their improvement, maintenance or repair.
The definition of drainage body excludes the Environment Agency, which has a separate right under Class D. This Class does not give every drainage body a general right to build new structures.
Need help with permitted development?
Permitted development can avoid a full planning application, but only if the right applies and every relevant limit and condition is met. Planning Geek can check the planning history, Article 4 directions and other restrictions, and help with a lawful development certificate or prior approval where needed.
Scope of the right
Identify the body doing the work, the watercourse or land drainage works and how the proposed operations are required for improvement, maintenance or repair. The Environment Agency should consider Class D instead.
Read Part 13, Class C and check the general GPDO limits and any other applicable consent.
Legislation
Class C – development by drainage bodies
Permitted development
C. Development by a drainage body in, on or under any watercourse or land drainage works required in connection with the improvement, maintenance or repair of that watercourse or those works.
Interpretation of Class C
C.1 For the purposes of Class C, “drainage body” has the same meaning as in section 72(1) of the Land Drainage Act 1991 (interpretation) other than the Environment Agency.
Page updated: 24th September 2026