The glossary to understand and take action

Water Management Administration (AGE)

The AGE is involved in water management and protection. Certain works, abstractions, discharges or business developments may be subject to water-related authorisation.

Administration ou organisme professionnel · Luxembourg Fiduciaries Editorial Team · Reviewed on

Understand the scope

Its role for your business

The need for a procedure depends on the project and its location. A building permit or another authorisation should not be regarded as automatically covering water-related aspects.

In your file

When to contact them and what to prepare

Prepare plans, technical descriptions and information on the relevant flows. Also review the requirements and validity period of decisions obtained. Any change to the project must be assessed against the authorised conditions. The application must follow the procedure specified by the competent authority.

A scenario to help you understand

Educational example

A company is developing a site and planning discharges: it has the water-related aspects checked in parallel with the other required authorisations.

Fictitious situation, presented to illustrate the concept.

Prepare for what comes next

Points to check

  • Identifier les impacts sur l’eau
  • Préparer les pièces techniques
  • Suivre les prescriptions de l’autorisation

Connecting concepts

Terms to know as well

Continue with the concepts, contacts and procedures related to this topic.

Operating permit — commodo/incommodoThe classified establishments regime governs certain facilities and activities in order to protect, in particular, the environment, workers and neighbouring residents. The process depends on the establishment's classification.Environment Agency (AEV)The AEV is involved in environmental protection and procedures within its remit. Businesses may be concerned by classified installations, waste, emissions or other obligations linked to their activity.Building permit and urban planningA building permit regulates construction, alteration or demolition work in accordance with the applicable rules. For a business, the intended use of the premises must also be compatible with urban planning requirements.Nature and Forests Administration (ANF)The ANF is involved in nature protection and forest management in Luxembourg. A business project affecting natural areas may require assessment under nature protection rules.Business permitThe business permit allows the pursuit of activities subject to it, where the conditions relating to the business and its manager are met.Professional reputeA condition for access to or exercise of a profession or activity, assessed according to the rules of that profession or activity and separate from technical skills.

Put it into practice

Explore further with our guides

Practical guideBusiness permit: preparing a coherent application

Sources and verification

References consulted on 20 September 2026. Official procedures specify the applicable conditions and exceptions.

This guide explains a general process. The applicable rules depend on your situation; it does not constitute personalised advice. Report a correction.

A definition gives you a reference point. To examine your situation, clarify your question with a professional.