Water Rights: Riparian and Littoral
Definition
Riparian rights concern properties bordering flowing bodies of water (rivers, streams), while littoral rights concern properties bordering non-flowing bodies of water (lakes, oceans).
Example
An owner of land bordering a river has riparian rights to use the water for irrigation, as long as it doesn't unreasonably interfere with downstream users. An owner of land bordering a lake has littoral rights to swim, boat, and fish in the lake.
Exam Tip
Associate 'riparian' with 'river' and 'littoral' with 'lake/ocean'. Remember that these rights are appurtenant (attached) to the land and transfer with the property.
Related Ownership Terms
Real Property vs. Personal Property
Real property is immovable land and anything permanently attached to it, while personal property (also called chattels) is movable.
Joint Tenancy
Joint tenancy is a form of co-ownership in which two or more persons hold equal, undivided interests in property with the right of survivorship. When one joint tenant dies, their interest automatically passes to the surviving joint tenants.
Tenancy in Common
Tenancy in common is a form of co-ownership in which two or more persons hold separate, undivided interests in property without the right of survivorship. Each owner can hold unequal shares and can independently transfer their interest.
Tenancy by the Entirety
Tenancy by the entirety is a form of co-ownership available only to married couples that includes the right of survivorship and protection from individual creditors. Neither spouse can unilaterally sell or encumber the property.
Community Property
Community property is a form of ownership recognized in certain states where property acquired during marriage is considered equally owned by both spouses, regardless of who earned the money or whose name is on the title.
Condominium Ownership
Condominium ownership involves owning a unit of airspace within a multi-unit building plus an undivided interest in the common elements shared with other unit owners. Each unit is separately taxed and financed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Test Your Ownership Knowledge
Practice with exam-style questions to make sure you can apply Water Rights: Riparian and Littoral and other ownership concepts.