Louisiana § RS 38:215 - Obstruction of drainage prohibited
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 38:215 — Obstruction of drainage prohibited, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 38:215. Obstruction of drainage prohibited
No person shall wilfully obstruct any natural or artificial drainage canal, creek, bayou, or small river, or any public or private drainage.
Whoever violates this Section shall be fined not less than twenty-five dollars nor more than one hundred dollars and in default of payment of fine and costs shall be imprisoned for not less than thirty days nor more than six months.
Each obstruction shall constitute a separate offense.
Failure on the part of anyone who has felled or cut trees in such manner that the tops obstruct any drainage or has placed any other obstruction in any drainage to remove the obstruction shall constitute prima facie evidence of wilful intent within the meaning of this Section.
The word drainage as used in this Section means any natural drain or any artificial drain which has been used for the purposes of drainage for at least ten years.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 38:215
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 38:215 cover?
Section RS 38:215 ("Obstruction of drainage prohibited") 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 38:215?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 38:215" (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 38:215 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.