Indiana § 14-26-2-5 - Public rights
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 14-26-2-5 — Public rights, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-26-2-5. Public rights
Sec. 5. (a) As used in this section, "natural scenic beauty" means the natural condition as left by nature without manmade additions or alterations.
(b) As used in this section, "recreational purpose" means the following:
(1) Fishing.
(2) Boating.
(3) Swimming.
(4) The storage of water to maintain water levels.
(5) Any other purpose for which lakes are ordinarily used and adapted.
(c) The:
(1) natural resources and the natural scenic beauty of Indiana are a public right; and
(2) public of Indiana has a vested right in the following:
(A) The preservation, protection, and enjoyment of all the public freshwater lakes of Indiana in their present state.
(B) The use of the public freshwater lakes for recreational purposes.
(d) The state:
(1) has full power and control of all of the public freshwater lakes in Indiana both meandered and unmeandered; and
(2) holds and controls all public freshwater lakes in trust for the use of all of the citizens of Indiana for recreational purposes.
(e) A person owning land bordering a public freshwater lake does not have the exclusive right to the use of the waters of the lake or any part of the lake.
[Pre-1995 Recodification Citations: 13-2-11.1-1 part; 13-2-11.1-2.]
As added by P.L.1-1995, SEC.19.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 14-26-2-5
What does Indiana Code § 14-26-2-5 cover?
Section 14-26-2-5 ("Public rights") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. 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 Indiana § 14-26-2-5?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 14-26-2-5" (Indiana). 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 Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 14-26-2-5 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana 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 Indiana.