Environmental Permits in Costa Rica

National Environmental Technical Secretariat (SETENA)

At Geo Costa Rica we handle procedures with SETENA to obtain the project's environmental viability, complying with current legislation and reducing negative impacts on the environment. Our team prepares the required studies and documents based on the project's characteristics, whether it is of low, medium, or high environmental impact.

SETENA - National Environmental Technical Secretariat

D1 Form: Used for projects with medium and high environmental impact. Includes the Sworn Declaration of Environmental Commitments (DJCA).
D4 Form: Replaces the former D2 Form. Applies to timber use activities and other projects with specific low impact.
Environmental Management Plans (PGA): Technical document to ensure environmental sustainability during project execution. Includes mitigation, monitoring, and compliance measures.
Environmental Impact Studies (EIA): Detailed and objective evaluation of the project's environmental impact. Essential for large-scale works.
Environmental Supervision Reports: Monitoring of acquired commitments. Prepared by an authorized Environmental Supervisor, including site inspections and periodic reports.

We provide technical support from the initial evaluation to the final resolution, maintaining direct and continuous communication with SETENA to streamline and ensure the success of the process.

Water Directorate of MINAE (DA)

At Geo Costa Rica we manage procedures with the Water Directorate of MINAE for the legalization of groundwater and surface water use. Our team works alongside drilling companies and landowners to ensure that wells or water intakes meet all technical and legal requirements.

Well drilling permit: Mandatory for any water extraction structure. A hydrogeological study may be required depending on the location.
Water concession: Legal authorization for the use of water resources from wells, springs, or surface sources, as water is considered public domain.
Hydraulic power concession: Applies to projects that use water flow as a driving force, either for productive activities or electricity generation.

Geo Costa Rica supports its clients throughout the entire process: from the initial evaluation to the final resolution, ensuring technical accuracy and regulatory compliance.

National Service of Underground Water, Irrigation and Drainage (SENARA)

At Geo Costa Rica we manage procedures with SENARA to comply with the technical requirements that protect aquifers and regulate the use of groundwater resources. We prepare studies that allow our clients to move forward with their projects in compliance with current regulations.

SENARA - National Service of Underground Water, Irrigation and Drainage

General opinion and certifications: Official document for validations in recharge areas or aquifer protection zones.
Detailed opinion: Specific evaluation of a site's hydrogeological conditions based on vulnerability and intended use.
Hydrogeological study for vulnerability change: Allows requesting adjustments to the protection category assigned in the matrix, based on updated technical studies.
Opinions for the generic aquifer protection matrix: Requirement in regulated zones to define land use and the feasibility of certain developments.

We have technical expertise in preparing the studies and opinions requested by SENARA, with a strong focus on protecting water resources and providing solid technical support for decision-making.

National Emergency Commission (CNE)

At Geo Costa Rica we prepare the studies required by the CNE for geological risk assessments, ensuring that projects comply with national regulations and that the safety of works is guaranteed against natural hazards.

Geological risk assessment: Technical analysis of the site to identify natural hazards that may affect project feasibility.
Slope stability: Geotechnical studies that evaluate the safety of slopes and embankments.
Additional factors: Consideration of geological faults, volcanic activity, and hydrometeorological threats.

Our team conducts comprehensive geological and geotechnical studies that support procedures before the CNE, facilitating decision-making in urban, rural, and infrastructure projects.

Directorate of Geology and Mines (DGM)

At Geo Costa Rica we handle procedures with the DGM related to mining exploitation, the use of public riverbeds, and the installation of material processing plants. Our technical support ensures that each procedure complies with national regulations and is carried out in an environmentally responsible manner.

Mining concession: Procedure to obtain permits for the exploration and exploitation of mineral resources.
Public riverbed authorization: Permits for the regulated use of rivers and streams under state jurisdiction.
Crusher plant installation: Authorizations for the operation of rock and aggregate crushing facilities.

We provide technical and legal support throughout the entire process before the DGM, contributing to the development of mining and infrastructure projects under a regulated and sustainable framework.

Water and Sewer Institute (AyA)

At Geo Costa Rica we conduct the studies required by AyA for projects that request sanitary sewer exemptions, ensuring that wastewater is properly treated and preventing the contamination of water resources.

Sanitary sewer exemption: Procedure that allows replacing the obligation to connect to a public sewer system with the use of alternative systems, such as septic tanks or individual drains, depending on the site's geological conditions.

Our hydrogeological studies determine the travel time of wastewater through the subsurface. If the results meet the established regulations, AyA may grant the sanitary sewer exemption for the project, enabling viable solutions in areas without public sewer coverage.

Geo Costa Rica - Environmental Consultants

Environmental processing, monitoring, and consulting in hydrogeological studies, natural hazards, well drilling, water concessions, and Environmental Impact Studies.