Boaters and residents are increasingly concerned about boat noise and unsafe boat operations.

As LCRA-managed lakes attract more residents and visitors, it's important for everyone to be considerate of others. Below are some helpful reminders and tips about safe practices and regulations related to boat speed and noise on the Highland Lakes.

Boat speed

• Operate your boat at a safe speed that will allow you to avoid a collision and stop within a safe distance.
• Consider the weather conditions, hazards and boating traffic when setting your speed. If you are unsure of the water depth or your distance to the shoreline, slow down to minimize the risk of personal injuries or property damage.
• Lower your speed at night and during periods of restricted visibility. Maximum nighttime safe speed for the Highland Lakes is 20 mph or minimum planing speed.
• Obey posted no-wake areas and slow your watercraft to headway speed. Keep the speed just fast enough so the operator can steer the boat.
• LCRA regulations require all motorized watercraft, including personal watercraft, to stay at least 50 feet from the shoreline, swimmers or structures unless at headway speed on LCRA-managed lakes.
• Boaters are liable for injury or damage caused by their boat's wake.

Boat noise

• Sound travels farther over water than land. Be considerate of others who use the lake or live along the shoreline.
  • The Texas Water Safety Act requires motorboats to have an exhaust water manifold or a factory-type muffler installed on the engine.
  • On the Highland Lakes, LCRA has established the maximum watercraft noise level at 92 decibels when the watercraft engine is at idle.
• Comply with motorboat noise limits. On LCRA-managed lakes, excluding Bastrop and Fayette, LCRA requires watercraft equipped with optional exhaust noise suppression devices to be operated with the device engaged when in a no-wake area. Failure to do so may result in a fine of up to $200.