Arizona § 45-451 - Groundwater rights and uses in active management areas
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 45-451 — Groundwater rights and uses in active management areas, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 45-451. Groundwater rights and uses in active management areas
A. In an active management area, a person may:
1. Withdraw and use groundwater only in accordance with the provisions of articles 5 through 12 of this chapter.
2. Store water in a storage facility, as defined in section 45-802.01, only in accordance with chapter 3.1 of this title.
B. This chapter shall not be construed to affect decreed and appropriative water rights. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to affect the definition of surface water in section 45-101 and the definition of water subject to appropriation in section 45-141 or the provisions of article 9 of chapter 1 of this title.
C. Notwithstanding subsection B of this section, solely in the Santa Cruz active management area:
1. The withdrawal of water, other than stored water, from a well and the distribution and use of water, other than stored water, withdrawn from a well shall be subject to any applicable conservation requirements established by the director in the management plans for the active management area pursuant to article 9 of this chapter.
2. The withdrawal of water from a well shall be subject to any applicable well location requirements contained in article 10 of this chapter.
Source: official Arizona text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 45-451
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 45-451 cover?
Section 45-451 ("Groundwater rights and uses in active management areas") is part of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Arizona. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arizona § 45-451?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 45-451" (Arizona). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arizona law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arizona official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arizona attorney.
How does Arizona § 45-451 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arizona can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.