Living on Lake Norman can be fun and exciting.  The lake is a wonderful place for all kinds of recreation, and we are lucky to have this resource!  There are, however, responsibilities that come with lake front living.  The Town of Cornelius, Mecklenburg County, Duke Power and the State of North Carolina enforce regulations in order to preserve our lake and community.  Below, you will find information about living in Cornelius and the Lake Norman area.

Outdoor Storage

If you live on Lake Norman, chances are you have a boat, Jet Ski, or some other kind of water toy.  If you do not have room to store it on your pier, make sure it is either in a garage or in the rear yard screened from view of the street. This includes boat trailers and Jet Ski trailers, as well.

Accessory Structures

Accessory structures include gazebos, pool houses, equipment storage, artist studio space, sauna, workshop, conservatories, storage sheds and rental cottages.  Accessory structures must be in the side or rear yard.  They must be at least 5’ off the side property line (may be more depending upon what is on your property's recorded plat) and cannot be constructed in the 50’ buffer area.  Zoning approval must be obtained from the Town and a building permit must be issued by Mecklenburg County prior to construction.   

• Creating & Maintaining a clean community.  Some helpful hints to help you maintain your property.



• Piers.  If you live on the Lake, you may have or want to have a pier.  Before contracting with anyone, make sure you understand your responsibilities as a pier owner.



• Watersheds.  Lake Norman, Mountain Island Lake, the Catawba River all provide our drinking water.  We want to protect these valuable resources as well as enjoy their beauty.  As a homeowner, you should understand why watersheds exist and what your responsibilities are to protect them.  



• Working from Home.  If you have an occupation or profession conducted within your home, you will need a Privilege License from the Town, as well as a Home Occupation Permit.

Government Programs
Communities with large lakes such as Lake Norman, may benefit from some government programs.  You may be interested in checking out programs offered by the Federal Emergency Management Association, such as Flood Insurance.