Property OwnershipIntermediateArizona Exam

In Arizona, the prior appropriation doctrine governs water rights. Under this doctrine:

AAll landowners adjacent to a water source share equal rights to its use
BThe first person to put water to beneficial use has the superior rightCorrect
CWater rights are automatically transferred with the sale of real property
DThe state government owns all surface water rights

Why The first person to put water to beneficial use has the superior right Is Correct

Answer B: The first person to put water to beneficial use has the superior right

Arizona follows the prior appropriation doctrine ('first in time, first in right'). The first party to divert and put water to beneficial use has priority over later appropriators.

Exam Tip: Property Ownership

Property ownership questions test the bundle of rights and different forms of ownership. Know the differences between joint tenancy, tenancy in common, and community property, including the right of survivorship.

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