The shoreline is an important and sensitive area that connects the aquatic world with the adjacent upland. These “edge” areas provide essential habitat for fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, insects, and other wildlife. They also set the stage for good water quality, as the vegetation and natural forest duff layer along the shore infiltrate pollutant- and silt-laden stormwater runoff, keeping lake water clean.
For lake reclassification petitions, please visit the reclassifiaction webpage
Vermont Use of Public Waters Rules
Proposed Amendment to Appendix A of the Use of Public Waters Rules
Welcome to the Map of Lake Wise Participation. This map shows all the shoreland sites, including private, town, state or business owned property, where the shoreland owner is a participant in the Lake Wise Program.
Under the Shoreland Protection Act, projects within the Protected Shoreland Area (PSA), the first 250 feet from the mean water level of lakes and ponds greater than 10 acres, are required to meet the following standards for slope, impervious surface, and cleared area:
