Water School

Emergency use of water is an exemption to the state’s water rights permitting that allows counties and rural fire departments to draw water from surface water sources in the event it is needed for an emergency situation.

Domestic and Livestock use is available only to those whose property adjoins a stream or river.  This use is for water utilized by livestock, household needs and to irrigate a yard or home garden.  This same exemption to Texas water rights allows property owners to impound or store water in stock tanks on larger than 200 acre-feet of storage volume.

Yes, there are exceptions to the need for a surface water permit or contact to access water in Texas.  The Texas Water Code states four “exempt uses” under which water may be made available without the need for a permit or contract.  These are domestic and livestock use, wildlife management, and emergency use.

Yes, permission is required in order to ensure that there is enough water for all in need.  The state has established procedures and requirements for obtaining access to state surface water.  Water use may be sought through application for a state permit through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) or through the contract purchase of water from an already permitted entity.The Brazos River Authority holds numerous state issued permits for water use and provides this water to other...

Surface water in Texas is owned by the state and held in trust for the citizens of Texas. The state grants the right to use water to public and private interests, industry, businesses, cities and farmers or ranchers.

Water planning in Texas is the process where officials take a long-term look at Texas’ water needs and how to meet them. The current method of water planning stems from the passage of Senate Bill 1 by the 75th Texas Legislature in 1997. This bill set its goals providing for the development, management, and conservation of water resources and preparation for responding to drought conditions.The planning process takes place to ensure that sufficient water will be available at a reasonable co...