Being a Good Lake Neighbor

Community, Policy & Reporting

Practical, people-friendly habits that keep the lake healthy and community life smooth—on the water and on shore.

Shared Principles

Assume sound travels and wakes grow. Be conservative with volume and speed
Design for water first. Yard, lighting, and access choices upstream affect everyone downstream
Be predictable. Consistent routes, hours, and routines reduce surprises and friction
Lead with courtesy. Small gestures—waves, yield, quick thanks—diffuse most conflicts

On the Water

Distance & depth: Stay well off shorelines in planing or wake-sports modes; use deeper/open water and vary your line
No-wake near people and structures: Idle past docks, swims, anglers, and paddlers; make eye contact and pass wide
Rotate fun zones: Avoid repeated passes along the same shoreline; share open areas
Quiet hours: Lower music and engine noise in early morning, during dinner hours, and at night
Trash & spills: Pack out all waste; fuel with absorbent pads; keep bilges tight

At the Ramp & Public Access

Prep/close-out in the lot, not on the ramp. Keep the lane moving
Clean, drain, dry boats and gear to prevent invasive species spread
Offer help to newcomers; a minute saved for them saves time for all

On Shore & At Home

Lighting: Use warm-tone, fully shielded fixtures aimed downward; timers or motion sensors after dark
Sound: Point speakers inward; keep volumes low outside; end outdoor amplification by agreed quiet hours
Landscape choices: Maintain vegetated buffers; keep leaves, grass, and soil off pavement and out of ditches
Pet etiquette: Leash near beaches and nests; bag and pack out waste
Fire & fireworks: Mind wind and burn bans; avoid debris into water; respect quiet and wildlife

Events & Guests

Parking & overflow: Keep roads and emergency access clear; carpool and shuttle when possible
Share house rules: No-wake expectations, lighting, quiet hours, and wildlife respect for everyone staying
Litter-free hosting: Provide labeled bins and a brief "pack-out" reminder at the start

Conflict Prevention & Resolution

Give context, not commands: "Wakes are cutting our bank—could you swing wider?" works better than "Slow down!"
Choose timing: Address issues the same day but away from crowds; keep it brief and calm
Use shared norms: Reference posted quiet hours, no-wake zones, or association guidelines
Escalate thoughtfully: For repeat issues, document dates/times and involve your lake group or local authorities if needed

Community Communication Etiquette

Assume good intent in emails/posts; ask questions before conclusions
Be factual and brief: Who/what/where/when; avoid naming individuals publicly unless safety requires it
Celebrate good behavior: Thank volunteers, highlight courtesy and stewardship wins

Quick Neighbor Pledge (Print & Share)

Keep wakes and music low near shore and at night
Pack out trash; prevent fuel drips
Maintain a native buffer and manage runoff
Leash pets and protect nests
Resolve issues with courtesy and facts first

Bottom Line

Courtesy multiplies. Mind wakes, light, and noise; keep waste and runoff out of the lake; and communicate with respect—your lake community will thrive.

Key Takeaways

Sound travels; be conservative with volume
Stay well off shorelines when planing
Use warm-tone, shielded lighting
Maintain vegetated buffers
Give context, not commands
Celebrate good behavior

On Water Quick Tips

Distance & depth matter
Idle past docks & swimmers
Rotate fun zones
Respect quiet hours
Pack out all waste

On Shore Quick Tips

Shielded, downward lighting
Speakers pointed inward
Maintain vegetated buffers
Leash pets near beaches
Mind fire & fireworks

Conflict Resolution

Give context, not commands
Address same day, away from crowds
Reference shared norms
Document & escalate if needed

Build Community

Small gestures of courtesy and respect create a thriving lake community. Lead by example and celebrate good behavior.

Get Involved