What is groundwater law?

Groundwater law is an important component of water law in California. Groundwater is water that is found beneath the surface of the Earth, usually in underground aquifers and streams. Groundwater supplies drinking water for many communities in California, and is used for agricultural irrigation and other activities. Groundwater law in California is established by the state under the California Water Code. These laws regulate the exploitation and control of groundwater, and they protect groundwater resources from over-exploitation and pollution. The Water Code establishes the rules and regulations for the management of groundwater resources, including the rights of landowners to use and manage their own groundwater. Groundwater management is complicated because the supply of groundwater is not always easily determined. The California Water Code has established the California Groundwater Monitoring and Management Plan, which provides guidelines for state and local governments to manage groundwater resources. The plan establishes water rights for landowners, allows for the regulation of groundwater withdrawals, and provides for the monitoring of groundwater quality. The California Water Code also provides rules and regulations to protect the quality of groundwater, such as bans on certain types of contaminates or pollution. All groundwater users must abide by the rules established in the California Water Code, and all groundwater users must obtain a permit to use groundwater. This permit is issued by the Department of Water Resources after a review of the applicant’s plans for use and management of the groundwater.

Related FAQs

What is water pollution law?
How does the doctrine of public trust apply to water?
How is water rights ownership evaluated?
What is water rights adjudication?
What is the role of the United Nations in international water law?
What is riparian law?
What is the law of navigable waters?
How does the law of water conservation affect water use?
What is water scarcity?
How does the Endangered Species Act affect water law?

Related Blog Posts

What is Water Law: A Comprehensive Guide - July 31, 2023
How to Effectively Negotiate Water Rights - August 7, 2023
Exploring the Different Types of Water Rights - August 14, 2023
An Overview of the Laws and Regulations Governing Groundwater - August 21, 2023
A Guide to the Doctrine of Prior Appropriation - August 28, 2023