Proposed
shoreland zoning rules go to public hearing
Why are shoreland zoning rules important
to lakes
How we choose to manage our shorelines can have big impacts
on the water quality and health of our lakes. Building too close to the
water, removing shoreland plants, and covering too much of a lake shore
lot with hard surfaces (such as roofs and driveways) can harm habitat
and send more nutrient and sediment runoff into the lake.
Many of the values lake front property owners appreciate
and enjoy about their properties—natural scenic beauty, tranquility,
privacy, relaxation—are enhanced and preserved with good shoreland
management. And healthy lakes with good water quality translate into healthy
lake front property values.
The interests of thousands of lakefront property owners,
anglers, boaters, tourists, and the businesses that depend on healthy
lakes are served by good shoreland zoning rules that preserve the character
of our lakes and quality of life.
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Summary of current draft
Wisconsin’s shoreland zoning rules (NR 115) contain
statewide minimum standards for shoreland development in unincorporated
areas. NR 115 is being comprehensively revised for the first time since
it took effect in 1968 (download current
proposal, exits site).
The present draft is an improvement over previous drafts.
The Department of Natural Resources has listened to the public during
the rule revision process, and many concerns expressed at prior public
hearings have been addressed in this draft.
Overall, this rule has many good features to help protect
the rights of property owners and the public to enjoy good water quality,
fish and wildlife, lake recreation, and scenic beauty (see summary talking
points and details below). The rule takes existing uses of properties
into account, and makes it easier for property owners to maintain their
property while still protecting their lake.
Visit DNR's
website for full draft of NR 115
Download
WAL's comments to DNR about the current NR 115 draft (PDF
216 KB)
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