Property OwnershipIntermediateArizona Exam

Riparian rights in Arizona govern:

ARights to extract and sell minerals, oil, gas, and other subsurface resources located beneath the surface of the property

BWater rights related to surface water flowing through or adjacent to a propertyCorrect

CAir rights above the property extending upward from the surface, including the right to build improvements and control the use of the airspace

DRights to harvest and sell timber growing on the property, which in Arizona are classified as a separate category of real property rights

Why Water rights related to surface water flowing through or adjacent to a property Is Correct

Answer B: Water rights related to surface water flowing through or adjacent to a property

Riparian rights deal with a landowner's right to use water from a river, stream, or other body of water that borders or runs through their property. Arizona primarily follows the prior appropriation doctrine for water rights.

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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Key Terms to Know

Easement

A non-possessory right to use another person's land for a specific purpose.

Joint Tenancy

Co-ownership where two or more people hold equal, undivided interests with the right of survivorship — when one owner dies, their share passes to the surviving owners.

Deed

A written legal instrument used to transfer ownership of real property from one party (grantor) to another (grantee).

Encumbrance

Any claim, lien, charge, or liability attached to real property that affects its value or limits its use.