Hessen Water Law.

The present Law applies to surface waters and related banks as well as to groundwater and parts thereof. Waters are to be secured as part of the natural environment and living space for human beings, animals and plants. They have to be managed in such a way that they meet the well being of the community; once such a principle is complied with, their use may also suit individual interests. Adverse influence on eco-systems has to be avoided and in general a sustainable development has to be guaranteed. In view of the paramount necessity to safeguard the climate, a high degree of protection for the whole environment shall have to be ensured. The text consists of 94 articles divided into 6 Parts as follows: Principles (I); Surface waters (II); Protection of groundwater, water supply (III); Waste water disposal, hazardous substances harmful to water, cases of damage (IV); Common provisions for waste water facilities (V); Competent authorities, compulsory right of passage, proceedings (VI). Four Annexes are enclosed.