Which term refers to the rights that extend to the water's edge?

The term that refers to the rights extending to the water's edge is "littoral." Littoral rights apply specifically to properties that border large bodies of water, such as oceans, seas, and large lakes. These rights typically include the use and enjoyment of the water and the land within the high water mark, ensuring property owners can access the waterfront.

Navigable waters are those that can be used for transportation by boats and ships, which is an important consideration in determining the rights associated with bodies of water; however, littoral rights are distinctly focused on the ownership and usage of land immediately adjacent to these large water sources. In contrast, riparian rights pertain to properties along rivers and streams, which involve different legal principles regarding water use.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for real estate professionals, as they directly impact property values, usage rights, and development potential along waterfronts.