Frequently Asked Questions
Lake Level
Boating
- How do I file complaints regarding boating safety violations?
- What types of boats are allowed on Georgia Power lakes?
Camping/Pavilions
Property Permits
- Do I need a permit to build on Georgia Power property at the shoreline of a Georgia Power lake front lot that I own?
- I have a residence on a Georgia Power lake. Where can I get information regarding construction on Georgia Power-owned property or shoreline improvements?
- Do I need a permit to build a dock or boathouse on a Georgia Power lake or land?
- May I cut trees on Georgia Power property?
Lots
- Do you have any lease lots available?
- How does the Georgia Power lake lot leasing program work?
- Can you tell me who owns the improvements on a specific lot on one of Georgia Power's lakes?
Contact
Why does the lake level fluctuate?
Lake levels may fluctuate because of varying amounts of rainfall and the volume of water that passes through the dam for electricity generation. Other factors contributing to level changes are scheduled and unscheduled drawdowns for maintenance of the dam, and government mandated flow limits. Georgia Power strives to keep the lakes as close to full pool, within operating parameters, as possible.
How do I find a Georgia Power lake level?
Find Georgia Power's lake levels at: http://lakes.southernco.com/
How do I file complaints regarding boating safety violations?
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Group has jurisdiction over all Georgia Power Lakes. For contact information, visit www.dnr.state.ga.us. If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1. If you want to report a violation, call the local county or city police. They have radio communications with the DNR Rangers. Some reservoirs are subject to multi-state jurisdiction, as they fall on state borders.
What types of boats are allowed on Georgia Power lakes?
Limitations on boats vary depending on the lake. Look for signs near boat ramps and call ahead to one of the local field offices listed in this site if you have questions on whether your boat will be permitted. State law prohibits the use of any vessel, specifically including a houseboat, with a marine toilet, galley, or sleeping quarters on any Georgia Power reservoir with the exception of Lake Sinclair.
How can I reserve a camp site or a pavilion at a Georgia Power park?
Call the park directly, or call 1-888-GPC-LAKE (1-888-472-5253). Campsite reservations must be made at least 10 days in advance and require a two-night minimum stay. You should specify the type of camping accommodations you will be using, such as, tent, trailer, or camper. Reservations are available for the current season. Picnic pavilions, particularly those for large groups, may require reservations.
Do I need a permit to build on Georgia Power property at the shoreline of a Georgia Power lake front lot that I own?
Yes, any shoreline construction requires a permit from GPC.
I have a residence on a Georgia Power lake. Where can I get information regarding construction on Georgia Power-owned property or shoreline improvements?
Please refer to Shoreline Management Guidelines or contact your regional Georgia Power Land Management Office for the permit.
Do I need a permit to build a dock or boathouse on a Georgia Power lake or land?
YES. A Georgia Power permit must be applied for and issued before beginning any construction, renovating, clearing, tree removal, grading, etc. on GP land. Permits can be attained at your local Georgia Power Land Management Office listed in this site. A valid lease agreement (GPC lease lots & Access lease lots), license (deeded lots) or Multi-Use License Agreement is required in order to receive permits for construction on GPC property. Permits should be posted and be visible from the lake and/or road. Failure to post permit could result in work stoppage.
May I cut trees on Georgia Power property?
To protect the vegetative buffer surrounding the lake, no mechanical clearing will be permitted within 25' of the shoreline without prior written approval and an on-site visit by a Georgia Power Land Management representative. Otherwise, only limited hand clearing will be permitted. Georgia Power promotes a one for one tree replacement policy (nursery grade). Native trees and hardwoods are recommended.
Do you have any lease lots available?
Currently, there are no lease lots available through Georgia Power. If you are interested in a residence on a Georgia Power lake, the best opportunities will be through local real estate companies.
How does the Georgia Power lake lot leasing program work?
Georgia Power owns and retains ownership of the lands around our lakes and offers lots for lease to homeowners for recreational use. Lake lot leases are currently fifteen year leases with rates established by Georgia Power Company. Before a lease is issued, the lessee will be responsible for meeting certain requirements. Because new lots are no longer available, lots are usually acquired in the form of a lease transfer. Leases are normally transferred in conjunction with the sale of the improvements on the lots and a transfer fee will be applicable. You may call the local Land Management Office for more information.
Can you tell me who owns the improvements on a specific lot on one of Georgia Power's lakes?
No, only furnish information on a specific lot to the actual lease holder.
What are the office hours of the Georgia Power Lake Field Offices?
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and closed 12 to 1 for lunch.
