No Wake Zone Bill Passes, Waiting for Governor’s Signature

Residents on large coves at the lake may soon be able to request that large boats slow down. A bill passed by the legislature gives property owners on coves 800 feet wide or larger the ability to petition the water patrol for a no-wake zone designation.  The legislation is a compromise of two bills sponsored by Representatives Robert Ross and David Wood.  A petition for the no wake zone would require signatures from 75% of the affected property owners in the cove.  It would apply only to boats 40 feet or larger on the big coves. The water patrol will be the final authority on whether the no wake zone is granted.  House Bill 2116 is currently awaiting the Governor’s signature.  If signed, it should go into effect in early August.