§ 1200 Surface Water Definition

Water Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law says that when people talk about water in applications or permits, they only mean water you can see on the surface or underground rivers that flow in clear paths.

Key Takeaways

•Only surface water (like rivers and lakes) counts in water permits.
•Underground water only counts if it flows in a clear path, like an underground river.
•This rule helps decide what water people can legally use.

Example

A farmer wants to use water from a river for their crops.

The law says the farmer can only use water from rivers or lakes you can see, not just any water underground.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 1200 Surface Water Definition

Whenever the terms stream, lake or other body of water, or water occurs in relation to applications to appropriate water or permits or licenses issued pursuant to such applications, such term refers only to surface water, and to subterranean streams flowing through known and definite channels. (Enacted by Stats. 1943, Ch. 368.)

Last verified: January 11, 2026

Key Terms

stream lake other body of water water surface water subterranean streams flowing through known and definite channels

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Water Code. Section 1200.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References