What must a river be for property lines to extend to its center, according to navigable law?

For property lines to extend to the center of a river under navigable law, it is crucial that the river is classified as both navigable in fact and navigable in statute.

Navigable in fact means that the river can be used for transportation of goods or people; it is physically capable of being used for commerce. This designation ensures that the body of water is practically navigable, which is an important factor in determining property rights.

Navigable in statute refers to the legal definitions established by statutes that determine what is considered navigable for the purpose of law, often applicable for claims of public access and rights. Different jurisdictions may have specific statutes that clarify which waterways are legal navigable waters.

Together, these two classifications confirm that the river is recognized as navigable by both its physical characteristics and legal standards, allowing for property lines to be determined outward to the center of the river. In the absence of either classification, property lines might not automatically extend to the river's center.