Print this page Riparian Rights
Thomas Strong, P.L.S.
Course Outline
This course covers
the topic of Riparian Rights and their effect on Real Property. It is important
for the Land Surveyor to understand the legal principles of water rights and
to be able to make intelligent decisions with respect to water boundaries.
This course includes
a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding
of the course materials.
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Have a greater understanding of the different concepts of water boundary law;
- Understand the importance of locating evidence in the field;
- Be familiar with the ways water can change boundaries;
- Understand the different types of riparian ownership;
- Learn about tidal boundaries;
- Learn how to establish the mean high water line at a site;
- Understand datums;
- Understand how to determine navigability;
- Be familiar with littoral rights;
- Understand why riparian rights are important;
- Be familiar with the definitions used in describing water boundaries; and
- Learn to appreciate
this complex area of boundary location.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for Land Surveyors.
Benefit to Attendees
After finishing this course the student will have a better understanding of the different concepts of water boundary law. He will understand the importance of the location of evidence in the field, which may influence decision-making with respect to water boundaries.
Course Introduction
Bodies of water
are usually permanent and unmistakable. They are considered natural monuments
that delineate the location of boundaries. They lack however a very important
characteristic of a monument - stability. A myriad of legal principles exist
which deal with the different aspects of water boundaries and court decisions
vary considerably on a case by case basis, as a result water boundary location
is probably one of the most complex areas of boundary location a land surveyor
must deal with.
Course Content
Riparian
Rights (PDF
file 23 KB)
You
need to open or download the above document to study this course.
Course Summary
The legal issues presented in this course and the rights of the riparian landowners
are varied and complex. Any attempt to deal with all of them would fill many
volumes and is beyond the scope of this course.
The purpose of this course is not to provide legal advise on particular issues,
but rather to provide a basis for understanding the general legal principles
associated with the topics presented.
Since the resolution of a particular riparian issue almost always depends on
the specific facts pertaining to that issue, the land surveyor is encouraged
to consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable in riparian law in your state
before relying on the broad principles set forth herein.
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
