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Water Rights

Under Oregon law, all water is owned by the State. With some exceptions, cities, farmers, factory owners and other users must obtain a permit or water right from the Oregon Water Resources Department to use water from any source — whether it is underground, or from lakes or streams. Landowners with water flowing past, through, or under their property do not automatically have the right to use that water without a permit from the State.

Water rights are obtained in a three-step process. The applicant first must apply to the Department for a permit to use water. Once a permit is granted, the applicant must construct the necessary improvements and begin using water. When the water is completely applied, or the permit specified completion date arrives, the permit holder must hire a Certified Water Rights Examiner to complete a final proof survey of water use, and submit to the Department a map and report detailing how and where water is being applied. If water has been used according to the provisions of the permit, a water right certificate is issued based upon the report findings.

Our Certified Water Rights Examiner staff can help you through this process. We have been preparing applications, completing Final Proof surveys and Claims of Beneficial Use reports for our clients since 1987.

Water Rights Transfers are required when a Water Right Certificate holder wants to change the water right. Again, staff experience with transfers and long standing working relationship with the Oregon Department of Water Resources will expedite your applications.