What line generally defines the boundary between navigable tidal waters and bordering uplands?

The defining line between navigable tidal waters and bordering uplands is generally established at mean high water. This is important in the context of property law and land ownership, particularly in coastal regions where the interactions between land and water influence legal rights.

Mean high water represents the average height of high tide over a specific period, typically 19 years. It provides a consistent and scientifically backed reference point that considers fluctuations in tidal patterns. This line is essential because it determines the extent of public ownership of tidal waters and establishes property rights for upland owners. Areas above this line are usually considered private property, while the waters below are public.

In contrast, mean sea level relates to an average height of the ocean's surface and is not specific to tidal influences. The highest tide in the winter and mean low water provide different perspectives on tidal heights, but they do not serve as the standard for determining the boundary between navigable waters and uplands. Mean low water, for instance, considers the average of low tides, which might not reflect the area that is relevant for navigable waterways and associated legal boundaries.