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!
Interested in living at the lake?
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.
If a person purchases a house on the lake is their any restrictions on renting it?
I would check with the real estate agent you are working with before you purchase anything – it really depends on which area you area in. I know there are a few developments that do not allow rentals and have other HOA-type restrictions in place such as home size, etc.
What are
the restrictions on cutting down trees
from the shoreline. How far back or up from shoreline must be left uncut?
Hey Ryan! I would check with the Corp of Engineers on that – they can give you exact details and even take a look I am sure. You can reach the office directly at 931.858.3125.