Property OwnershipIntermediateColorado Exam

In Colorado, 'riparian rights' (rights related to waterways) are:

AThe primary water rights doctrine in Colorado, though specifics can vary by situation

BSecondary to Colorado's prior appropriation doctrine for most consumptive water useCorrect

CUsed exclusively for groundwater allocation

DOnly applicable to navigable rivers

Why Secondary to Colorado's prior appropriation doctrine for most consumptive water use Is Correct

Answer B: Secondary to Colorado's prior appropriation doctrine for most consumptive water use

Although common law riparian rights exist in Colorado, they are largely superseded by the prior appropriation doctrine for consumptive water use. Colorado's water law is primarily based on prior appropriation ('first in time, first in right').

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.

People Also Study

Key Terms to Know

Tenancy in Common

Co-ownership where two or more people hold undivided interests that need not be equal and pass to each owner's heirs — no right of survivorship.

Option Contract

A contract giving the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to purchase a property at a specified price within a specified time period.

Right of First Refusal

A contractual right giving a party the opportunity to match any offer received before the owner can accept it from a third party.

Deed

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

Study This Topic

Property Ownership Guide

Practice More Colorado Real Estate Questions

1,400+ questions covering all exam topics. Start free — no signup required.

Take the Free Colorado Quiz →