Water Rights Petitions Program

Welcome to the State Water Board's Water Rights Petitions Program webpage.

A petition is needed to make changes to a water right permit, license, or a pending application.  A petition can also be filed to extend the time needed to put water to use under a permit. To make a change to a water right registration, please refer to our Registrations Program website.

This page provides on overview of the overall petitions program, and links to the various types of processes available to change water rights. Please review the different types of petitions to determine which process best meets your needs.

  General Program Information

Petitions Flow Chart

Petitions Forms and Guides

Water Right Terms

The following are the typical terms in a water right. Review the types of petitions and which process best meets your need. Changes will be evaluated based on how they affect other right holders and the environment.

The following can be changed:

  • Place and purpose of use
  • Due diligence deadlines
  • Point of diversion
  • Public trust terms
  • CEQA mitigation measures
  • Other conditions

The following can not be changed:

  • Source
  • Quantity of diversion or use
  • Season of diversion
  • Priority date

  News and Announcements

On February 22, 2024, the State Water Board received a water right change petition from the Department of Water Resources for the Delta Conveyance Project. Due to an expected need for a water rights hearing to resolve contested factual issues related to the petition, ex parte (off the record) communication limitations are now in effect. On February 29, 2024, the State Water Board issued a notice of the water right change petition submitted by DWR for the Delta Conveyance Project.  The notice includes details on how to protest the petition and the prohibition on ex parte communications. On April 18, 2024, the State Water Board extended the protest submittal deadline for the water right change petition from the Department of Water Resources for the Delta Conveyance Project and issued a revised notice.

  Change Petition Types

Standard Change Petition

If a right holder determines that they wish to change the conditions of their permit or license, they generally must petition for approval by the Division of Water Rights. Parties must also file petitions to modify the project requested in their application.

Transfers

Used by buyers and sellers to supply water where it is needed most.

Minor Change

A streamlined request when changes are simple and limited.

Permit Time Extension

Extension to time to complete projects still being diligently pursued.

Instream Flow Dedication

Petition for adding preservation of fish and wildlife as purpose of use.

Wastewater Petition

Petitions to allow wastewater facilities to reduce discharges and use the treated water.

Temporary Urgent Change

Used to temporarily modify a permit or license for up to 180 days.

  Stay informed

Email Subscription List

Subscribe to our "Water Rights Petitions" email list to receive notifications and the latest updates.

Check your email account for a confirmation email to complete your subscription.

See our Subscription page for additional email lists.

Contact Us

  • Water Rights General Phone Line: (916) 341-5300