The Surface Water Division allocates the right to use surface water resources in a fair and equitable manner; promotes, protects, and manages the rights and interests of Arizona’s water resources; and manages floodplains and dams in order to reduce loss of life and damages to property.

The Surface Water Division consists of the Dam Safety Program, Flood Warning Program, Floodplain Management Program, and Surface Water Rights Program.  These four programs work closely together to meet statutory requirements described in the State Water Code (applicable portions of Arizona Revised Statutes).

Willow Springs in Coconino County

Dam Safety

The Dam Safety Program is responsible for the safety of all nonfederal dams in Arizona through the review of applications for proposed new dams, and monitoring of construction of new dams and repairs for existing structures.  Program personnel inspect and evaluate operating dams to determine if safety deficiencies exist and develop actions to remove the deficiencies. 

    Dam Safety Program

Flood Warning

The Flood Warning Program is responsible for assisting in the planning, design, and construction of flood warning systems.  Program personnel coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies during times of flood emergencies.

    Flood Warning Program

Floodplain Management

The Floodplain Management Program collaborates with other state and local entities to administer the National Floodplain Insurance Program (NFIP), the Community Assistance Program, and the Map Modernization Program.  Floodplain Management personnel assist with the development of State Standards for floodplain management.

    Floodplain Management Program

Surface Water Rights

The Surface Water Right Program issues permits and certificates for rights to use surface water within the State of Arizona, excluding the Colorado River.  The program also manages and maintains accurate and updated surface water right registries.

     Surface Water Right Program