What are the types of water rights held by users?

In Pennsylvania, the different types of water rights held by users are divided into two categories: those based on riparian law and those based on appropriation law. Under riparian law, a user holds a right to use the water for reasonable purposes if that user is located on a water source. This means that the water rights depend on the proximity of the user to the water source. Under appropriation law, users can obtain rights to water based on first-in-time, first-in-right (FTFR) principles. This means that the user who obtains water rights first is entitled to use the water more than a user who obtained water rights later. In Pennsylvania, water rights can also be obtained through the transfer of water use. This type of water right allows holders to transfer the right to use the water to another user. This transfer is usually supplied by a temporary permit, and holders must follow the rules and regulations specified in the permit. In addition, water rights can also be obtained through a state agency or municipality. In Pennsylvania, the Department of Environmental Protection is responsible for issuing permits for the use of water. These permits are granted based on certain criteria, such as a user’s need for the water and the effects of its use on the environment. Overall, Pennsylvania’s water law provides users with a number of ways to obtain and retain water rights, which depend on their proximity to a water source, the transfer of water use, or the approval from a state agency or municipality.

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What are the types of water rights held by users?

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