Article 3. Emergency Work of California Water Code >> Division 3. >> Part 1. >> Chapter 4. >> Article 3.

The department shall immediately employ any remedial means necessary to protect life and property if either:
  (a) The condition of any dam or reservoir is so dangerous to the safety of life or property as not to permit of time for the issuance and enforcement of an order relative to maintenance or operation.
  (b) Passing or imminent floods threaten the safety of any dam or reservoir.

In applying the remedial means provided for in this article, the department may in emergency do any of the following:
  (a) Lower the water level by releasing water from the reservoir.
  (b) Completely empty the reservoir.
  (c) Take such other steps as may be essential to safeguard life and property.

The department shall continue in full charge and control of such dam or reservoir, or both, and its appurtenances until they are rendered safe or the emergency occasioning the action has ceased.

The cost and expenses of the remedial means provided in this article, including cost of any work done to render a dam or reservoir or its appurtenances safe, shall be recoverable by the state from the owner by action brought by the department in the superior court of the county wherein the dam or reservoir or any part thereof is situated.