Concept:
Side slope of an irrigation channel is selected according to soil type, stability, and erosion resistance.
Step 1: A steeper side slope may become unstable and collapse.
Step 2: Permanent irrigation channels should have stable side slopes for long-term use.
Step 3: If the side slope is too steep, erosion and bank failure may occur.
Step 4: Therefore, permanent irrigation channels should not usually have side slopes steeper than:
\[
1\frac{1}{2}:1
\]
Step 5: Hence, the correct answer is \(1\frac{1}{2}\) to \(1\).
\[
\boxed{1\frac{1}{2}\text{ to }1}
\]