What is the law of navigable waters?

The law of navigable waters, or riparian rights, are rights given to those who own land bordering a waterway, such as a river, stream, or lake. This law gives the owners of such land access and rights to use the water for various activities, like fishing, swimming, and irrigation. The law also regulates the use of water from navigable waterways to ensure that the water is used responsibly. In California, the riparian rights are written into the Water Code. The California Department of Water Resources has several regulations that elaborate on the law of navigable waters. These regulations are designed to protect existing water bodies, while also granting landowners the rights to use the water in a way that is beneficial to both the environment and the public. In general, those with riparian rights are allowed to take reasonable amounts of water from navigable waterways for domestic use. This includes activities like irrigation of crops, gardens, and other agricultural uses. The amount of water taken is subject to regulation, however, and it is important to follow any rules set forth by the Department of Water Resources. In addition to riparian rights, those with navigable waterways may be able to get water rights from the state. This allows the landowners to access water from a different source, like an aquifer, and store it for uses like irrigation and drinking water. This can be beneficial to both landowners and the environment, as it allows for increased water usage without depleting the navigable waterways.

Related FAQs

What is the potential for international water conflict?
How is water quality regulated?
What is the procedural mechanism of enforcing water law?
What is the public trust doctrine in terms of water?
How does international water law differ from domestic water law?
How does water law interact with energy law?
What are the main principles of international water law?
How does the doctrine of reasonable use affect water rights?
What is the doctrine of water appropriation?
How is ground water harvested?

What is the law of navigable waters?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts