We use cookies to improve security, personalize the user experience,
enhance our marketing activities (including cooperating with our marketing partners) and for other
business use.
Click "here" to read our Cookie Policy.
By clicking "Accept" you agree to the use of cookies. Read less
Understanding Marine and Coastal Waters: A Legal Perspective
Definition & Meaning
The term marine and coastal waters refers to various bodies of water that are influenced by the ocean and its tides. This includes:
Estuaries
Waters in the estuarine zone, including wetlands
Any waters located seaward of the historic height of tidal influence
The territorial seas
The contiguous zone
The ocean
These areas are crucial for environmental conservation and play a significant role in marine research and resource management.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
Marine and coastal waters are often referenced in environmental law, conservation efforts, and resource management. Legal professionals may encounter this term in contexts such as:
Environmental regulations
Coastal zone management
Marine resource protection
Users can manage related legal matters using templates from US Legal Forms, which are designed to assist with various legal processes involving these waters.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are a couple of examples illustrating the concept of marine and coastal waters:
Example 1: A local government implements regulations to protect a coastal wetland that serves as a habitat for endangered species.
Example 2: A fishing company must obtain permits to operate in an estuary to ensure compliance with environmental laws. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
Key laws related to marine and coastal waters include:
Clean Water Act
Coastal Zone Management Act
National Marine Sanctuaries Act
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Regulatory Focus
California
Strict regulations on coastal development
Florida
Focus on protecting wetlands and marine habitats
Texas
Emphasis on oil and gas exploration in coastal areas
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Wetlands
Areas where water covers the soil, either permanently or seasonally.
Wetlands are a subset of marine and coastal waters, specifically characterized by saturated soil.
Estuaries
Where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean.
Estuaries are included in marine and coastal waters but focus on the mixing of water types.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are involved in activities related to marine and coastal waters, consider the following steps:
Research local regulations that may apply to your activities.
Consult with a legal professional if you face complex issues.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you navigate legal requirements.
Find the legal form that fits your case
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.