Water, Resources and Environment: Illinois Water Use Law
Using Groundwater
D. L. Uchtmann
September, 2000
Abstract
Illinois follows the doctrine of reasonable use for groundwater withdrawals. This brief article describes that doctrine. It also describes the impact of the Water Use Act of 1983 and the Water Authorities Act on one's rights to withdraw groundwater, and the role of the courts in resolving disputes. Links to the Water Use Act and Water Authorities Act are provided.
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Using Water From Streams
D. L. Uchtmann
September, 2000
Abstract
In Illinois, rules for the use of stream water and ground water differ somewhat. For stream water, Illinois follows the Riparian Doctrine - Reasonable Use Rule: Each person owning land next to a stream is entitled to use all the stream water necessary to satisfy natural needs (e.g., to meet household needs), but is limited to reasonable use of the water to meet artificial needs (e.g., irrigation). Disputes about what is a reasonable share of the available stream water are resolved in the courts if they cannot be resolved informally.
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