Vt. Stat. tit. 10 § 1276
Nothing contained in this subchapter shall be construed to prohibit or require a permit for the proper use of waters for customary sport and recreational purposes such as fishing, swimming, and boating if the classification of the water permits that usage. In the event of an irreconcilable conflict between the provisions of this subchapter and 3 V.S.A. chapter 25, the provisions of this subchapter shall prevail. Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to affect, impair, or abridge the right of riparian or littoral owners or others to sue for damages or injunctions or exercise any other common law or statutory remedy to abate and recover damages for water pollution. If a permit holder is required to pay such damages by judgment or order of a court, the amount of damages shall be a credit against any pollution charges due under this subchapter. Any permit granted under this subchapter shall not be construed as a vested right and shall be subject to continuing regulations and control by the State.
10 V.S.A. § 1276