| Based on use of function | Storage dams, diversion dams, detention dams |
| Based on structural action | Gravity dams, non-gravity dams |
| Based on hydraulic design | Overflow dams, non-overflow dams |
| Based on rigidity | Rigid dams (solid masonry, concrete gravity, arch dam, buttress dam, steel dam), non-rigid dams (earth, rockfill, combined earth-rockfill dams) |
| Based on materials of construction | Masonry dam, concrete dam, earth dam, rockfill dam, timber dam, steel dam, combined concrete-cum-earth dam, composite dam |