Environmental
Texas Water Code governs water rights. Under the 'rule of capture' for groundwater in Texas, a landowner:
ACan only pump the amount of water allocated by the state
BHas the right to capture and use groundwater beneath their land without liability to neighboring landowners unless there is negligence or malice✓ Correct
CMust obtain a permit before drilling any water well
DShares equal rights to groundwater with all adjacent landowners
Explanation
Texas follows the 'rule of capture' (or 'law of the biggest pump') for groundwater, which generally allows a landowner to pump as much groundwater from beneath their land as they wish, even if it reduces water available to neighbors, absent negligence or malice. Groundwater Conservation Districts can regulate pumping in their areas.
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