PUB3099
Water Resources Program fact sheet
Missouri Geological Survey Director: Carey Bridges, RG

What is the law that requires a permit for water exportation?

Chapter 640 Section 406 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri (RSMo) protects Missouri’s water resources by restricting water export methods, requiring a permit for water exportation. It also allows Major Water Users (as defined in Section 256.400, RSMo) to request reevaluation of permits, reevaluation of permits during state of emergency drought conditions, and requiring annual reporting from water exporters.

Whom does the law affect?

Any person or entity that exports water out of the state of Missouri.

Are there any exemptions to the law?

Yes, two exemptions are written into the law. If the withdrawal and end use of water resources being exported are within 30 miles of Missouri’s border, a person is exempt from needing a permit to export water but must annually report their water usage. Exportation of bottled water or water packaged in containers intended for single use is also exempt from the permitting process.

When was the law passed?

The statute was signed into law July 2025, and the statute became effective on Aug. 28, 2025.

Does the law apply to persons exporting water prior to August 2025?

Yes, any person exporting water out of the state of Missouri prior to August 2025 that continues to do so on or after Aug. 28, 2025, must complete the application to apply for a permit. A few exemptions apply and include bottled or packaged water intended for single use, and withdrawal and exportation within 30 miles of the Missouri’s borders. If you are unsure if you are exempt, please contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Water Resources Center.

Who administers the law?

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources administers the law in conjunction with the Missouri Soil and Water Districts Commission.

Do other states have a similar law?

Yes, many states have an application process and require a permit for water allocation.

How long does the application process take?

Once the application is received, the statute allows 270 days to approve or deny the permit. Following the receipt of the application, the department is required to notify the county commission of the county where water will be exported from, within 30 days. The department also has 120 days to review the application and determine if the applicant is in compliance with the statute. Following review, a public comment period will be held for 30 days, then the department has 60 days to make a recommendation and submit all comments along with a recommendation to the Missouri Soil and Water Districts Commission. The commission will hold a public hearing within 30 days of receiving the department’s recommendation and then shall approve or deny the permit application within 30 days of the hearing. Renewal of a valid exportation permit follows the same procedures and timeline.

How long is my permit good for?

A water exportation permit is valid for three years; it is recommended a person holding a permit reapply for permit renewal no later than 271 days before their permit expires. If a state of emergency is declared by the governor, for all or any part of the state based on drought conditions, the department must reevaluate any existing water exportation permits.

Can I export water by a pipeline facility?

It is unlawful for any person to withdraw water from any water resource for exportation outside the state of Missouri by use of a pipeline facility, unless the withdrawal and end use of the water by the pipeline facility is within 30 miles of the Missouri border.

What are my responsibilities as a water exporter with respect to the law?

Every person who is exempt, and every permittee, is required to annually report the amount of water that is being transported outside of Missouri. The reporting form is available online and may be emailed, mailed or faxed.

When is annual reporting due each year?

Annual reporting is required for permit holders and exempt exporters. The annual reporting form must be completed and submitted between January 1 through January 31 for the previous calendar year. For example, water used between January 1 and December 31 of 2025 should be reported between January 1 and January 31 of 2026. The following form is the preferred method of reporting and may be emailed to mowaters@dnr.mo.gov. The reporting form may also be mailed or faxed:

Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Missouri Geological Survey
Water Resources Center 
P.O. Box 250
Rolla, MO 65401-0250
United States

Fax
573-368-2193

Can I submit my annual report online?

No, online reporting is not available for annual reporting.

What will happen if I do not submit my annual report?

Failure to report may result in referral to the Missouri Attorney General.

I’m a Major Water User and would like to request the department reevaluate a permit; how do I make a request for reevaluation?

Major Water Users may request the department reevaluate permits. If you would like to submit a request, please email mowaters@dnr.mo.gov and reference your Major Water Users identification number, identify the exporting activity for which a reevaluation is requested, and provide justification for the need of the reevaluation.

Nothing in this document may be used to implement any enforcement action or levy any penalty unless promulgated by rule under chapter 536 or authorized by statute.

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