Are you wanting to build a lake home at Center Hill Lake? Nice choice! There’s a few things to know before you make your move though.

About the Lake

The lake itself was created in 1948 by a dam constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps actually still owns the lake and the acreage immediately off of the lake. There are a number of park rangers – each is assigned a certain area of the lake.

Waterfront Property

Center Hill Lake does not have any direct lakefront / waterfront property. So while you can buy land close to the lake and build, it won’t actually be on the water – it would have a killer view though!

Docks on the Lake

Because there is no waterfront property on the lake, privately owned docks on the lake are not possible unfortunately. That doesn’t mean they don’t exist though.

There’s actually 26 docks on the lake – those were grandfathered in in the 1950s / 1960s. There’s no others that can be built.

The only option would be to apply for a pass permit with the Corps of Engineers – basically the park rangers would come out, design and build a pass through. It would be no more than 4’ wide and must be meandering (no trees cut, etc.)

For locals and visitors alike, this is a good thing though! Because Center Hill Lake isn’t crowded with multiple docks, the water is very clean and the lake itself is very preserved.

Water Access

You can still walk to the shoreline from your property – aka access the Corp of Eng. property but you cannot have any unattended equipment or items left on the shoreline (boat, RV, etc.)

If you border Corp of Eng. property, you are able to build as close as you like to the Corp of Eng. property line.

If you are looking for more information, get in touch! You can also reach out to park rangers if you have specific questions at 931.858.3125.