Frequently Asked Questions

Michigan law allows a County Board of Commissioners to establish “normal levels” (also commonly referred to as “legal levels” or “court-ordered lake levels”) on inland lakes through circuit court proceedings. A 1967 order of the Arenac County 23rd Circuit Court set Forest Lake normal levels at 727 feet above mean sea level for summer and 722 feet for winter.

Part 315, Dam Safety, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 Pa, is the legal framework that requires anyone who wants to construct a dam of specified dimensions must first obtain a permit from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).

Part 307, Inland Lake Levels, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 Pa, is the legal framework for establishing and maintaining inland lake levels.

State law does not give the public the ability to vote on a lake level assessment or establishing a lake level special assessment district. Yet, it offers various opportunities for public comment and input. The County must balance interests from various stakeholders (such as lakefront and backlots) in this process but encourages public comment to help it come to the best proposal for any assessments or assessment district.

No. Different state laws require separate special assessment districts for certain lake improvements. A separate state law and assessment process governs weed treatments.