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

Riparian and prior appropriation water rights are two types of water rights in South Carolina. A riparian right is a right that is given to property owners that border a river or stream. This right gives property owners the ability to draw a reasonable amount of water from the river or stream for any purpose. It’s important to note that the right is limited to a reasonable amount so other property owners also have access to the water. Prior appropriation water rights are based on the idea that the first person to use the water is the one with the right to it. This means that, if a property owner puts water to beneficial use first, they have the right to use it even if other property owners need it. South Carolina doesn’t recognize prior appropriation rights. The main difference between the two is that riparian rights give property owners the right to a reasonable amount of water, whereas prior appropriation rights give the first user the right to the water. Additionally, riparian rights are recognized in South Carolina, while prior appropriation rights are not. Both types of water rights ensure that water is used responsibly and that everyone has access to it.

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

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