What is the difference between riparian and prior appropriation water rights?

Riparian and prior appropriation water rights are two different types of water right that are regulated by water law in Arizona. Riparian water rights are based on the principal of riparian rights, which states that those who own bordering land along rivers, streams, and other bodies of water have the right to use the water found on their land. This right includes the use of water for domestic, agricultural, and recreational purposes, and those with riparian rights do not need to obtain a permit from the state in order to make use of the water in a reasonable way. This right is also based on the notion that the water must be used in a manner that does not hurt other riparian landowners. In contrast, prior appropriation water rights are based on the notion of “first in time, first in right.” This means that the first person to take water from a body of water and put it to beneficial use will have priority rights over anyone who takes the water after them. Prior appropriation water rights can be obtained by applying for a permit from the state, and the permits can be bought and sold like property. The main difference between riparian and prior appropriation water rights is that riparian rights are based on the principle of “first in line” while prior appropriation water rights are based on the principle of “first in time, first in right.” Riparian rights are also automatic and do not require a permit from the state, while prior appropriation water rights must be granted through a permit and can be bought and sold.

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What is the difference between riparian and prior appropriation water rights?

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