ABSTRACT
The construction and exploitation of small hydro besides the disposable energy in the nature and energy requirements depends considerably on the state policy on energy exploitation. This chapter considers legislation and measures related to small hydro in Croatia. The Croatian laws allow for private construction of small power plants. As with all other constructions it is necessary to fulfill some requirements and collect necessary permissions. All waters in Croatia are public good and they are controlled by some institutions in the name of the state. The use of waters and objects on them is subject to concessions given through public soliciting for funders. The biological minimum is the quantity of water which must be preserved in the river on which a power plant is to be built. Water catchment for a small power plant is usually of a small height and it does not prevent fish migrations. If this could happen in some location, a fish path must be provided.
