Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act

It's that time of year! School is almost out, summer is upon us, and soon New Hampshire's lakes, rivers, and ponds will be buzzing with activity. Many folks from Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island come to New Hampshire every year to enjoy our beautiful surroundings - and some plan to relocate or build a vacation home here.

The Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act was established in 1994 to help protect New Hampshire lakes and ponds from erosion and sedimentation as a result of construction and land use activities within 250’ of the shoreline. The Shoreland Protection Act affects all homeowners planning to build on or subdivide New Hampshire lakefront property. Amendments to the Act went into effect July 1, 2008.

Even lawmakers agree many “gray areas” still exist in the Act and its amendments, including restrictions on building size, accessory structures and the amount of clearing that can be done, boathouse construction, and conflicting state vs. town setback requirements.

If you own land on the shores of a lake, pond, or river and are thinking about building a lakefront home which will have to comply with the Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act requirements and restrictions, give us a call or send an email. We can help you design and build a comfortable, energy efficient home within the guidelines and restrictions of the Act - and make building a lakefront home an enjoyable process!