News

Lake Overcrowding & Dock Usage:

LOLA is providing the following information for educational purposes to address the numerous complaints and feedback received from lake residents. While LOLA agrees that lake overcrowding is a major lake safety issue, LOLA is not in any position to enforce the rules or cite the violations. In part, residents renting dock space or allowing the use of their dock by non-lake residents is a contributor to the overcrowding issue.

The following information is to help educate our lake residents.

1. Is it legal?

  •  Individuals renting dock space or allowing the use of dock space to non-lake residents without a marina permit issued by the DNR /EGLE are in violation of Michigan law.
  • Extended use of dock space by friends and relatives requires a DNR marina permit.
  • In short, any boat moored to a dock for an extended period needs to be registered to the property owner.

Definition of Marina – Natural Resources Environmental Protection Act (NREPA)
Key definitions, found in the NREPA, are helpful in understanding the EGLE’s position: Subsection 30101 (j) of Part 301:”Marina” means a facility that is owned or operated by a person, extends into or over an inland lake or stream and offers service to the public or members of the marina for docking, loading, or other servicing of recreational watercraft.

If ticketed, it is a misdemeanor and punishable by ninety days in jail.

2. Can Individuals be fined?

Lake residents renting dock space or extended use of dock space by friends and relatives (money or not) could be fined $500.00 by the DNR/EGLE for operating an illegal marina.

3. Are there liability concerns for personal injury or property damage?

Individuals renting or allowing use of their docks by others should check with their homeowner’s insurance to determine their liability exposure.

Lake Overcrowding

  • Overcrowding on Lake Orion is a critical concern for lake residents.
  • Overcrowding is a concern for potential boating safety and creates a higher risk of accidents.
  • Individuals illegally renting dock space or those allowing use of their dock space by others is a contributor to lake overcrowding.
  • Boating safety should be a concern for all lake residents.

Reporting Violators
Call the Department of Natural Resources @ 517-284-6000 – All calls are treated as anonymous.

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