Riparian rights are legal privileges granted to landowners whose property borders a body of water, such as a river, lake, or stream. These rights typically include the use and enjoyment of the water, such as for fishing, swimming, and boating, as well as access to the water for domestic and agricultural purposes, such as irrigation. Riparian rights also encompass responsibilities to use the water reasonably and without interfering with the rights of other riparian landowners. The allocation and regulation of riparian rights may vary depending on state or regional laws, as well as specific legal doctrines, such as the prior appropriation doctrine in some western states. Riparian rights are an important aspect of property law, particularly in areas where water resources are scarce or subject to competing interests.
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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.
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