What is riparian law?

Riparian law is a legal doctrine relating to the use of and control of water, specifically on the banks or along the edges of rivers and streams. In Washington, riparian law is part of the general water-rights system and applies to some of the water-related issues faced by the state. This doctrine provides that riparian owners have certain rights to the waters that border their property. These rights typically include the rights to the reasonable use of the water, the right to a certain amount of access, and the right to compensation for any interference with the water. The exact rights granted to riparian owners depend on the particular facts of the case, such as the type of water being used and the impact that the use of the water has on neighboring land. Generally, the amount of water that can be taken from a stream or river is based on the amount needed for a reasonable use, provided that it does not significantly impact other riparian land owners. Riparian law is very important in Washington and is used to protect the rights of property owners located along or near rivers and streams.

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What is riparian law?

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