Sec. 2. (a) Water in a natural stream, natural lake, or another natural body of water in Indiana that may be applied to a useful and beneficial purpose is declared to be:
(1) a natural resource and public water of Indiana; and
(2) subject to control and regulation for the public welfare as determined by the general assembly.
(b) Diffused surface water flowing vagrantly over the surface of the ground is not considered to be public water. The owner of the land on which the water falls, pools, or flows has the right to use the water.
[Pre-1995 Recodification Citation: 13-2-1-2.]
As added by P.L.1-1995, SEC.18.
Structure Indiana Code
Title 14. Natural and Cultural Resources
Article 25. Water Rights and Resources
Chapter 1. Water Rights; Surface Water
14-25-1-1. Legislative Findings Regarding Use of Surface Waters
14-25-1-2. Waters Declared Natural Resource
14-25-1-3. Riparian Rights to Water for Domestic Purposes
14-25-1-4. Impoundment of Excess Waters
14-25-1-5. Use of Increased Flowage of Waters Due to Release From Impoundment
14-25-1-6. Standards of Measurement
14-25-1-7. Diversion of Floodwaters
14-25-1-8. Mediation of Disputes
14-25-1-9. Reports to Commission Regarding Volume of Water Used
14-25-1-10. Public Policy Regarding Regulation of Public Waters
14-25-1-11. Findings; Requirements for Diversion of Water Outside the Basin; Rules