riparian right

noun

, Law.

1. a right, as fishing or use of water for irrigation or power, enjoyed by a person who owns riparian property.

Word History and Origins

Origin of riparian right¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

The legislation expressly authorizes the State Water Resources Control Board to investigate all water rights claims — including riparian rights and pre-1914 rights — and to determine whether the rights are valid.

From Los Angeles Times

California still recognizes water rights based on those old claims, as well as riparian rights based on land ownership next to rivers and streams.

From Los Angeles Times

Some properties on the water come with “riparian rights” pertaining to the ownership and use of the waterfront.

From Washington Post

Workshops will deal with subjects such as natural shoreline design, invasive species and riparian rights.

From Washington Times

In the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, growers with riparian rights volunteered last month to reduce their use by 25% this summer — a deal that headed off possibly more severe cuts by the state board.

From Los Angeles Times