Who owns a stream or ditch? Can I make changes to it?



Owning a watercourse (e.g. stream or ditch) and what that means is not something many people think about, and we often find that ownership comes as a surprise to homeowners and landowners alike.

These responsibilities are not included within the deeds to a property and are not routinely flagged up during the conveyancing process.

This page aims to address the questions we are often asked about watercourse ownership and the responsibilities that brings.



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