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If you鈥檙e building a new obstruction (like a dam, weir or mill) on a river containing migratory fish and eels you may need to include a fish pass. The Environment Agency will tell you if a fish pass is needed and if so, must approve its design.

The rules also apply if you鈥檙e making major changes to an existing obstruction or making it harder for fish to pass an obstruction.

Design a fish pass

You should consult a specialist when designing a fish pass.

Fish passes help migrating fish get past a weir or other obstruction. They must be suitable for the species and size of fish found in the river and should be built where they have the best chance of fish using them.

Get fish pass approval

1. Submit your fish pass design and description to your local Environment Agency office using the the application form and guidance notes.

2. Designs are reviewed by an independent group of fish pass specialists who recommend whether the pass should be approved.

3. Your local Environment Agency office issues approval.

It鈥檚 free to apply - allow up to 6 weeks.

You should get approval for your fish pass design before you start building.

If you do not get approval you can re-submit your plans when recommended changes have been made.

Provisional approval

If the pass is in an important location (such as a tidal barrage) or is a new design, the Environment Agency may issue provisional approval.

Final approval may only be given when the fish pass has been shown to be working satisfactorily.

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