Water Framework Directive (consolidated)

The Water Framework Directive binds Member States, not companies: they must designate river basin districts, produce river basin management plans and achieve good status for their waters. No company files anything under it. A small dyeing works or water utility is affected only when a national discharge permit, made under national law, sets a limit, and that permit is what binds the business.

The current river basin plans run from 2022 to 2027, and amendments made by Directive (EU) 2026/805 must be transposed by 21 December 2027.