Tide Lands Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Tide Lands, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Tide Lands?

The wet sand area between the high and low water points that the tidal action covers each day. It is here where the basis of the access to the water is derived. Normally this land is owned by the person who owns the property fronting the sea. Initially these were taken to be the property of State.

History and Meaning of Tide Lands

Tide lands refer to the area between the high and low water lines that are covered by tidal action every day. It is also known as the intertidal zone. Previously, this land was considered to be the property of the state, and access to water was considered a basic right. However, it is now generally owned by the person who owns the property that fronts the sea.

Examples of Tide Lands

  1. A property owner who wants to develop their land but is legally obligated to maintain public access to the nearby tide lands for fishing and other recreational activities.
  2. A court case involving a dispute about the ownership of tidal lands and the rights of the public to access them.
  3. The development of a marina or pier that requires dredging and excavating of tidal lands to accommodate boats.

Legal Terms Similar to Tide Lands

  • Riparian Rights: The rights of a landowner whose property borders a river or stream.
  • Water Rights: The legal rights of a person or entity to use water from a river, stream, or other source.
  • Easement: The legal right to use someone else's land for a specific purpose, such as crossing it to access a body of water.