The present Law applies to surface waters, coastal waters, groundwaters and parts thereof. Waters are to be secured as part of the natural environment and living space for human beings, animals and plants. They have to be managed in such a way that they meet the well being of the community; once such a principle is complied with, their use may also suit individual interests. Adverse influence on eco-systems has to be avoided and in general a sustainable development has to be guaranteed. In view of the paramount necessity to safeguard the climate, a high degree of protection for the whole environment shall have to be ensured. The text consists of 114 articles divided into 12 Parts as follows: Introductory provisions, management of waters, measures to be taken and economical plans (I); Property of waters (II); Use of waters, authorization of installations (III); Maintenance and construction of surface waters, dykes and dams (IV); Installation in and on surface waters, securing water discharge (V); Monitoring of waters (VI); Compulsory rights (VII); Compensation proceedings (VIII); Competences, formal proceedings (IX); Water Book (X); Penalties (XI); Transitional and final provisions (XII). Three Annexes are enclosed.