Dredge and Work Licences
Dredge Licence Applications
The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is responsible for the licencing of dredging and disposal of dredge material in the UK. Applying for dredge and disposal licences from the MMO can be a lengthy process but there are some measures in place that attempt to reduce the burden on small operators. Check the MMO’s website for the most up-to-date information, including exemptions for some scientific research, very small navigational dredges, extended licence periods and an accelerated licence process.
The MMO encourages applicants to engage with them as early as possible to discuss the need for marine licences and other statutory consents.
Contact the MMO on: 0300 123 1032 or email marine.consents@marinemanagement.org.uk
If you wish to carry out any dredging in Cowes Harbour you will also need to submit a ‘Dredge Licence Application‘ to Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC). CHC will consider the application with regard to the likely impact on the safety of navigation and also as one of the statutory consultees of the MMO.
Dredge licence applications advertised for consultation are published in the News section of the CHC website.
CHC will work with harbour users and statutory authorities to ensure the balance between the use of the estuary and its environment is maintained. We do this through the Medina Estuary Baseline Document which aims to streamline the maintenance dredging application process within sites like the Medina that are designated for nature conservation.
Works Licence Applications
In order to carry out works within the jurisdiction of Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC), consents and licences may be required from several authorities. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Cowes Harbour Authority – Grant licences (under the Cowes Harbour Revision Order 1989 – Harbour Works and Dredging) to construct, alter, renew or extend works within the harbour up to the mean high water springs (MHWS) mark. A Works Licence Application must be completed and submitted to the CHC before any works can commence. Post: Harbour Office, Town Quay, Cowes, PO31 7AS or Email: chc@cowes.co.uk
Marine Management Organisation (MMO) – A Marine Licence is required for many activities involving a deposit or removal of a substance or object below MHWS, or in any tidal river to the extent of the tidal influence and up to the boundary of the UK territorial seas.
You will also need to seek the applicable planning permission from the Isle of Wight Council and the consent of the landowner.
Hot Work Permit
Before carrying out any hot work within Cowes Harbour, operators are required to obtain a Hot Work Permit from CHC. This applies to hot work undertaken on vessels, quays, pontoons, jetties, or any other structure within the harbour area. Hot work includes activities such as welding, flame cutting, grinding, brazing, or any process that generates heat, sparks, or naked flames.
Hot work presents a heightened risk of fire, explosion, and injury, particularly within a busy harbour environment where vessels may be carrying fuel, flammable materials, or other hazardous substances. The permit process enables CHC to assess the proposed work, ensure appropriate control measures are in place, and coordinate activities where necessary to minimise risks to people, property, navigation, and the environment.
The permit system also helps ensure that emergency arrangements are considered before work begins, including fire-fighting equipment, suitable supervision, and effective communication with CHC. By notifying and obtaining approval before commencing hot work, operators contribute to maintaining a safe working environment while reducing the likelihood of incidents that could affect other harbour users or disrupt harbour operations.
Bulk Liquid Transfer Notification
Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) requests that operators complete a Bulk Liquid Transfers Notification Form (bunkering form) before undertaking significant fuel transfer operations, such as bunkering commercial vessels or transferring fuel to fuel barges or large storage facilities on the river. These activities involve substantially larger volumes of fuel than routine refuelling and therefore present a greater potential risk to navigation, the environment, and other harbour users if not properly planned and managed.
The notification process enables the Harbour Authority to be aware of when and where bulk fuel transfers are taking place, allowing it to assess any potential impacts on harbour operations and coordinate vessel movements where necessary. It also helps ensure that appropriate safety and pollution prevention measures are in place, reducing the risk of spills and supporting a prompt and effective response should an incident occur.
This requirement applies only to large bulk liquid transfer operations and does not apply to leisure vessels taking fuel as part of normal marina or fuel berth operations. The form is intended to support safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible harbour operations while minimising disruption to commercial activities.
