The Water Code's main objectives are (art. 2): (1) to establish the basic principles and framework relating to the appropriation and conservation of water resources, (2) to define the extent of the rights and obligations of water users and owners including the protection and regulations of such rights, (3) to adopt a basic law governing the ownership, appropriation, utilization, exploitation, development, conservation and protection of water resources and rights to land related thereto and (4) to identify the administrative agencies which will enforce this Code. All waters belong to the State. The State may allow the use or development of waters by administrative concession.; Chapter II provides for the ownership of water, whereas Chapter III provides for the appropriation of waters. Other Chapters: Utilisation of waters (IV); Control of waters (V); Conservation and protection of waters and watersheds and related land resources (VI); Administration of waters and enforcement of the provisions of this Code (VII); penal provisions (VIII); Transitory and final provisions (IX).
Water Code 1976.