Louisiana § RS 38:23 - Permit or consent required
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 38:23 — Permit or consent required, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 38:23. Permit or consent required
A. All dams, as described in R.S. 38:22, both federal and nonfederal but excluding the Toledo Bend Dam, and the locks and dams on the Red River, Ouachita River, Black River, Mississippi River and tributaries under the jurisdiction of the United States Army Corp of Engineers, shall be under the jurisdiction of the state acting through the chief engineer of the Department of Transportation and Development, office of engineering. The chief engineer, or his authorized representative, shall have supervision and overview of the construction, modification, operation, and maintenance of the dams to the extent required to protect life and property and to provide for the safety and welfare of the public. No person, partnership, association, corporation, agency, or political subdivision shall construct any such dam or make, construct, or permit to be made or constructed any modification of the dam without first obtaining the written consent or permit of the chief engineer. No permit is required for routine maintenance.
B. All designs for new dams or for modifications or removal of existing dams under the jurisdiction of the state shall be designed by a professional engineer registered in Louisiana and shall be in compliance with all rules and regulations promulgated under the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act. The engineer providing professional services shall notify the owner in writing of the owner's obligation to obtain a permit or written consent of the chief engineer before the start of construction of a new dam or modification or removal of an existing dam.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 733, §1, eff. July 23, 1981; Acts 2012, No. 753, §5; Acts 2022, No. 687, §1, eff. June 18, 2022.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 38:23
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 38:23 cover?
Section RS 38:23 ("Permit or consent required") is part of the Louisiana Civil Code, the codified statutory law of Louisiana. 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 Louisiana § RS 38:23?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 38:23" (Louisiana). 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 Louisiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Louisiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Louisiana attorney.
How does Louisiana § RS 38:23 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Louisiana 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 Louisiana.