10.31 Riparian Basics for Lakes

• Library: Real Estate Practice Deskbook (2019 Ed.)

1. (§10.31) Riparian Basics for Lakes

By and large, the principles of riparian law and use of water relating to streams are also applicable to lakes.

When land is bounded by a non-navigable lake, the abutting proprietor's title extends to the center of the lake provided the proprietor's grantor had owned to the center of the lake. [citations omitted] The owner of land adjoining a non-navigable lake may convey the land while retaining title to the property within the lake. If the description in a deed discloses an intention not to convey to the center of a non-navigable stream or lake, that intention will control.

Wallis v. St. Louis County, 621 S.W.2d 720, 723 (Mo. App. E.D. 1981).

Once a lake is created, disputes arise, such as the following on Lake...