§ 1201 Public Water Appropriation

Water Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law says that all water flowing in natural streams belongs to the state and can be taken for use, unless it is already being used in a useful way on land next to the water.

Key Takeaways

•All flowing water in natural channels is considered public water.
•Water that is already being used beneficially on riparian land is protected.
•New uses of that water require state approval.

Example

A farmer uses river water to irrigate his crops.

The water is already being used for a beneficial purpose, so it stays protected. If someone else wants to divert that same water for a new project, they must get permission from the state.

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

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 1201 Public Water Appropriation

All water flowing in any natural channel, excepting so far as it has been or is being applied to useful and beneficial purposes upon, or in so far as it is or may be reasonably needed for useful and beneficial purposes upon lands riparian thereto, or otherwise appropriated, is hereby declared to be public water of the State and subject to appropriation in accordance with the provisions of this code. (Enacted by Stats. 1943, Ch. 368.)

Last verified: January 11, 2026

Key Terms

public water natural channel useful and beneficial purposes riparian lands appropriated

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Water Code. Section 1201.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References