Shoreline Homeowners

Living on the waters of such a beautiful, scenic lake like Candlewood comes with additional responsibilities. It's up to all of us to protect and preserve this resource for everyone. Abiding by existing regulations helps to make Candlewood a safe and healthy lake for everyone.

If you ever have any questions about requirements for living next to Candlewood Lake, you can always call the Candlewood Lake Authority office at: 860-354-6928

Shoreline Homeowner Need-to-Knows
Shoreline Work & FirstLight Permit Requirements
  1. The Rocky River Project Boundary (formerly known as the 440' Line) is often talked about, but also often misunderstood by many who live on Candlewood Lake.  Here's some helpful information.

    What is the Rocky River Project Boundary?  95% of Candlewood Lake waterfront property owners own down to the Rocky River Project Boundary, but not below (your deed will tell you).  So, as you walk towards the water, once you reach the Rocky River Project Boundary the owners of the Lake (FirstLight Power Resources) own the land from the Rocky River Project Boundary to the water (and below).  You need to have a land survey done to officially locate the Rocky River Project Boundary.  It does not follow the 440' elevation line in all areas.
  2. What are the restrictions I need to be aware of below the Rocky River Project Boundary?  Any modifications you wish to make to the land below the Rocky River Project Boundary must be approved by the landowner, FirstLight Power Resources.  That includes, but is not limited to, permission to cut down trees, clear vegetation, construct or modify a sea wall, build a retaining wall, construct a shed or other structure or modify the current size or configuration of your dock.  Failure to do so may result in required mitigation on your part and/or legal action by the Lake's owner.
  3. Who do I contact about making property modifications within the Rocky River Project Boundary?  You need to fill out an application on FirstLight's website.  If you have questions, you may also visit their Contact Us Page.  They will pre-screen your request and if they approve you, you will then need to proceed for approval from your city or town.
Docks on Candlewood Lake

Knowing what you can and can't do when making changes to your current dock setup is very important.

For all changes to docks on Candlewood Lake, visit FirstLight's permitting portal:

Swim Areas & Swim Platforms

All swim areas on Candlewood Lake require a permit through the CT DEEP. For more information, click below:

Please Note: Swim platforms are only allowed within Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection approved swim areas.

Boat Moorings, Slow No Wake Buoys, etc.

Unpermitted moorings are not allowed on Candlewood Lake, and are subject to removal from FirstLight.

All Slow No Wake, Hazard, and other navigational markers MUST be permitted by the CT DEEP through their permitting portal.

200' Regulated Inland Wetlands Zone

If your property lies within 200 feet of Candlewood Lake, certain activities may be prohibited or are regulated and require permits from your local land use or permit office.  Please contact your town if you have any questions prior to making property modifications.

NOTE:  In addition to the 200-foot inland wetlands regulations, please check with your local zoning office for special lake restrictions you need to be aware of.

Brookfield
Inland Wetlands Commission - (203) 775-7316

Danbury
Environmental Impact Commission - (203) 797-4525

New Fairfield
Inland Wetlands/Conservation Commission - (203) 312-5640

New Milford
Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission - (860) 355-6083

Sherman
Inland Wetlands - (860) 355-1821