                                 CODE OF VIRGINIA

DEFINITIONS (§ 62.1-242)

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:
		&#8220;Beneficial use&#8221; means both instream and offstream uses. Instream
beneficial uses include but are not limited to protection of fish and wildlife
habitat, maintenance of waste assimilation, recreation, navigation, and cultural
and aesthetic values. Offstream beneficial uses include but are not limited to
domestic (including public water supply), agricultural, electric power
generation, commercial, and industrial uses. Domestic and other existing
beneficial uses shall be considered the highest priority beneficial uses.
		&#8220;Board&#8221; means the State Water Control Board. However, when used
outside the context of the promulgation of regulations, including regulations to
establish general permits, pursuant to this chapter, &#8220;Board&#8221; means
the Department of Environmental Quality.
		&#8220;Nonconsumptive use&#8221; means the use of water withdrawn from a
stream in such a manner that it is returned to the stream without substantial
diminution in quantity at or near the point from which it was taken and would
not result in or exacerbate low flow conditions.
		&#8220;Surface water withdrawal permit&#8221; means a document issued by the
Board evidencing the right to withdraw surface water.
		&#8220;Surface water management area&#8221; means a geographically defined
surface water area in which the Board has deemed the levels or supply of surface
water to be potentially adverse to public welfare, health and safety.
		&#8220;Surface water&#8221; means any water in the Commonwealth, except ground
water, as defined in § 62.1-255.

HISTORY: 1989, c. 721; 1992, c. 812; 2022, c. 356.