Registering a natural spring in Costa Rica is essential if you wish to legally utilize the water for housing, farming, or development purposes. This guide explains the process step by step, helping you comply with local environmental laws and unlock the full potential of your land.
📝 Step-by-step guide
1. Identify the spring and intended use
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Permanent or temporary spring?
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For human consumption? You need to register it with SENARA/MINAE.
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Protection zones:
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100 m for general use
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200 m for human consumption
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2. Environmental impact assessment (SETENA)
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Needed if you plan to build any infrastructure.
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Use Form D1 or D2, depending on the environmental impact.
3. Apply for a water use concession
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Processed through the Water Directorate (MINAE).
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Requires:
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Property ownership certificate
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Cadastral plan showing water intake
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SETENA approval
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Legal entity documents (if applicable)
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4. Publish in La Gaceta
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Legal publication of your request three times.
5. Annual fee payment
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Based on the requested volume.
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Typical duration: up to 30 years.
6. Municipal construction permit
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Submit plans, water concession, and forms.
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It may also require health permits.
7. Protect and maintain the area
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Avoid contamination within a 100 m or 200 m zone.
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Comply with environmental and forestry laws.
8. Construction and operation
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It can begin only after all permits are secured.
📄 Key documents
| Document | Responsible entity |
|---|---|
| Environmental impact form D1/D2 | SETENA |
| Water concession | MINAE / SENARA |
| Edicts publication | National Printing Office |
| Construction permit | Local Municipality |
| Sanitary permits | Ministry of Health |
💰 Estimated costs and timelines
| Step | Estimated cost (USD) | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Field visit and GPS mapping | $200 – $400 | 1 week |
| Environmental consulting | $600 – $1,200 | 2 – 4 weeks |
| Hydrogeological study | $700 – $1,500 | 3 – 5 weeks |
| Certified cadastral plan | $150 – $300 | 1 – 2 weeks |
| Water concession request | $45 + optional agent | 3 – 6 months |
| La Gaceta edicts | $75 – $100 | 2 – 3 weeks |
| Annual water fee | $20 – $50 | — |
| Municipal construction permit | $200 – $500 | 1 – 2 months |
| Basic catchment system | $1,500 – $3,500 | 3 – 5 weeks |
Total cost: $3,500 – $7,500
Total time: 4 to 12 months
💡 Pro tips
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Hire an experienced environmental consultant.
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Register early if your project depends on legal water access.
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Keep all legal documents backed up and organized for easy access.
