Winnipesaukee Forum - View Single Post - Dilemma over boats anchoring off our beach

Skip · 07-29-2004, 06:30 AM

Hi Cabinfever,

Yours is not an isolated problem. In fact, the same issue that faces you occurs on many lakes across the State.

You will get a lot of varied opinion on this subject here, however your best and only reliable source is the Marine Patrol itself.

It is a generally held principal that state waters are enjoyed by all up to the high water mark. There are specific guidelines within these waters pertaining to channels, mooring fields, swim areas (and lines) and rafting (and so on). The specific guidance you seek, how close and how many can anchor off of private property, is not specifically addressed as such.

Granated, no one can block your right to access to your own property. And you have the right to restrict access to your own property (again, with some exceptions). you also can petition the Director of Safety Services for swim line exclusionary areas.

But your proper course of action is to contact the Marine Patrol direct and get specific legal advice. Also, make them aware of your concerns.

As you can see, there are no clear and simple answers to your questions. Good luck and let us know how you make out with the authorities.

Skip

07-29-2004, 06:30 AM	#4
Skip Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Dover, NH Posts: 1,615 Thanks: 256 Thanked 514 Times in 182 Posts	Go to the source.... Hi Cabinfever, Yours is not an isolated problem. In fact, the same issue that faces you occurs on many lakes across the State. You will get a lot of varied opinion on this subject here, however your best and only reliable source is the Marine Patrol itself. It is a generally held principal that state waters are enjoyed by all up to the high water mark. There are specific guidelines within these waters pertaining to channels, mooring fields, swim areas (and lines) and rafting (and so on). The specific guidance you seek, how close and how many can anchor off of private property, is not specifically addressed as such. Granated, no one can block your right to access to your own property. And you have the right to restrict access to your own property (again, with some exceptions). you also can petition the Director of Safety Services for swim line exclusionary areas. But your proper course of action is to contact the Marine Patrol direct and get specific legal advice. Also, make them aware of your concerns. As you can see, there are no clear and simple answers to your questions. Good luck and let us know how you make out with the authorities. Skip