Introduction

A review of relevant publications, books, laws, and regulations indicates that no clear distinction is made between urban and non-urban rivers; study and implementation methods are generally presented without considering the river’s location. However, the geographical context of a river segment—whether situated in an urban or non-urban environment—has an undeniable impact on the river’s behavior and ecosystem. Accordingly, it is essential that this distinction be reflected in the development of river-related plans. The purpose of this guideline is to emphasize, wherever possible, the specific characteristics of urban rivers during the processes of study, design, implementation, operation, and maintenance of river engineering projects. These include projects involving river corridor delineation, river training, rehabilitation, and beautification. It highlights the importance of differentiating between urban and non-urban rivers throughout each phase of the project cycle. This guideline is particularly relevant for engineers, specialists, and project managers involved in river engineering, ensuring that special attention is paid to the unique requirements of urban settings and the dynamic interaction between rivers and cities.