vattenskyddets

Vattenskyddets is the Swedish term referring to protective measures around drinking-water sources to prevent contamination and safeguard public health. The concept encompasses land use planning, pollution control, and water resource management intended to ensure safe, clean drinking water and to protect both surface and groundwater.

Protection is typically achieved by designating vattenskyddsområden around a water intake. The designation is made by the municipality with guidance from the County Administrative Board and in accordance with the environmental code and related water protection regulations. The area is generally divided into zones that impose progressively stricter restrictions on activities that could pollute water sources.

Within the inner or core zone, activities with a high risk of contamination—such as storage of hazardous substances, fueling, waste disposal, and certain construction—are usually prohibited or heavily restricted. In outer zones, permitted activities may require permits and adherence to conditions, for example limits on pesticide or fertilizer use, septic systems, or drainage works. Large-scale developments near an intake are subject to scrutiny and potential additional restrictions.

Implementation involves dialogue with landowners, permit procedures, and ongoing monitoring. Municipalities administer the zones and enforce rules, while the County Administrative Board and national agencies provide oversight and technical guidance. Violations can lead to penalties or injunctions, and there may be arrangements to adjust zones or compensate landowners when necessary.

Vattenskyddet intersects with broader water policy, including European Union directives, and is integrated with planning, public health, and environmental protection under national legislation. See also Miljöbalken; Vattenlagen; Vattenmyndigheterna; vattenskyddsområde.