Frequently Asked Questions
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When does the lake drawdown?
Lake Burton Drawdown Schedule
Lake Burton modified drawdown schedule:
September 3, 2024 - Lake starts down gradually from Normal (1865.0 elevation)
September 16, 2024 - Lake is one foot down (1864.0 elevation)
November 1, 2024 - Lake starts down gradually to (1862.5 elevation)
March 1, 2025 - Lake starts up gradually from 2.5 feet down (1862.5 elevation)
May 1, 2025 - Lake is back to Normal summer pool (1865.0 elevation)
Beginning just after Labor Day, the lake will be lowered to an 1864.0 elevation which is one foot below normal summer pool to accommodate modernization efforts at our Burton and Seed Lake Dams. The lake will remain at 1864.0 or one foot down from normal until November 1.
November 1 the lake will not follow the normal annual Winter Rule Curve Drawdown as we continue to support this modernization work. The lake will be lowered further to an 1862.5 elevation or 2.5 feet down from normal summer pool. This change in drawdown depth will be needed as the lake will fluctuate more due to limited generation during the winter and early spring. Once this work is complete, the lake will start refilling and reach summer pool by May 1.
During this specific drawdown, the lake will fluctuate often during rainfall events and will limit the normal opportunity for homeowners to do routine maintenance on improvements in the lakebed during this time.
To receive a construction permit for new structures or for maintenance of existing structures, a construction application must be submitted to Georgia Power for approval. Applications must be reviewed and approved by Georgia Power before starting construction.
If you have any questions regarding the drawdown or if we can assist you in any way, please do not hesitate to call our office at 706-746-1450.
How do I receive LBCA stickers?
LBCA members who need new or additional LBCA stickers, please email admin@lbca.net. We are happy to send those to you!
How do I know where I can place a buoy?
The placement of buoys by homeowners is regulated by Georgia Power Company and enforced by GPC and the DNR. Here are the published GPC regulations regarding private buoys on all of GPC’s North Georgia lakes including Lake Burton.
"Only DNR or other agency-authorized regulatory buoys are permitted, and all other buoys, floats, swimming ropes, etc., must meet the following guidelines:
-they are only permitted to be in the lake between Memorial Day and Labor Day
-they must be located no further than 50 feet from the shoreline and must not interfere with the legal flow of boat traffic
-they are not allowed to have the appearance of a state-enforced regulatory marker.
Any buoys or other apparatus not complying with this guideline are subject to removal by GPC or GADNR.”