====== Water Rights ======

Water rights regulate the use and ownership of water associated with land.

===== 1. Riparian Rights =====
Rights of landowners whose property borders a natural watercourse.

  * Water may be used for domestic and agricultural purposes
  * Must be reasonable and beneficial use
  * Cannot divert water away from the watershed
  * Rights run with the land

===== 2. Littoral Rights =====
Rights of landowners whose property borders a lake, ocean, or sea.

  * Right to reasonable use of the water
  * Includes access, boating, and recreational use
  * Does not include ownership of the water itself

===== 3. Appropriative Rights =====
Rights based on taking water for use on non-adjacent land.

  * Based on first in time, first in right
  * Requires permits from the state
  * Common for irrigation, mining, and municipal use

===== 4. Percolating Water =====
Groundwater that flows beneath the surface and is not part of a defined watercourse.

  * Belongs to the landowner
  * Use must be reasonable and beneficial
  * Subject to local groundwater regulations

===== 5. Surface Water =====
Water found in rivers, streams, and lakes.

  * Governed by riparian and appropriative rights
  * Subject to state regulation

===== 6. Licensee Disclosure =====
Water rights and access may affect value and use.

  * Disclose known water rights issues
  * Do not provide legal interpretations beyond licensee scope
  * Recommend expert consultation when appropriate