Who Controls the Lake
 

Hello, this may be a stupid question, but in terms of overall lake life living of Lake Winni, who actually can make decisions? In other words, does each town get to decide how they want their portion of the lake to be, or is it done by the State Gov.? Does Wolfeboro have to abide by the same rules of land development as Weirs Beach or is it basically all the same over the lake in terms of nearby land development policy? I appreciate any help on this. Thank you. Who exactly is in charge?

The State has jurisdiction over construction within the lake itself. While there are some state regulations that cover building on the adjacent lands, towns currently have the right to make their own stricter rules on development. I say currently because it seems that is changing as there are multiple bills at the legislature this session that either put limits on, or repeal, local authority to regulate development.

personally, while I agree with Puck above, I my honest opinion (IMHO for all you text savy folk) the overall governing body is DES - Department of Envirnmental Services - without them it does not matter what the towns say or do.

An example. Last year I had a shed installed on Welch Island in Gilford, between the 50’ and 150’ reference lines. 1st step apply for a permit from DES. Without that permit it is a non-start. Then apply for a permit in Gilford with the approved DES permit attached. Show that all Gilford zoning requirements are also met now that the DES permit is in hand.

Alan