Protecting the Lake, One Project at a Time
Accessing and enjoying an abundant and diverse natural resource like Lake Minnetonka comes with a great responsibility. The LMCD directs, supports and participates in many projects and initiatives designed to protect and preserve different aspects of the lake.
300 foot Distance Rule
In response to growing concerns about large boat wakes on Lake Minnetonka, the LMCD updated it rules in August 2022 to enhance safety and protect the lakeā€™s shoreline. These changes included extending the no-wake zone to 300 feet from shore and applying the same rule to all watercraft, not just personal watercraft. This update aimed to balance recreational boating with environmental protection and safety for all watercraft users. The rule has been in effect since January 1st, 2023, with positive results over the last two boating seasons. To learn more about the rule, review process, and view the buffer map, visit our Wakes Rules page.
Watercraft For Hire Code Changes
We monitor trends and regularly review LMCD ordinances to ensure theyā€™re inclusive of current and emerging lake use.
Last year, a watercraft for hire workgroup was formed after receiving applications to register watercrafts that did not fit the profile of a typical charter boat. Watercraft for hire are boats or other waterborne vessels carrying passengers for a fee. The goal of the workgroup was to create code that is clear, comprehensive, and provides equal opportunities for all applicants.
After lengthy discussions, the workgroup proposed the changes that were then adopted and put into effect last January.
Rental Watercraft Code Amendment
In August 2024, the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District Board passed an ordinance adopting new Rental Watercraft Licensing requirements that went into effect on January 1st, 2025.
This ordinance requires all watercrafts, both restricted and non-restricted, that are rental on Lake Minnetonka to be inspected by Hennepin County Water Patrol. Restrict watercraft must also obtain a license through the LMCD. It also requires that prior to renting watercrafts, watercraft owners need to obtain the official LMCD Rental Watercraft Sticker that is given out alongside Hennepin County Water Patrolā€™s sticker upon completion of inspection.
View more information at the link below.
De-icing Regulations & Policy Review
We formed a workgroup to review de-icing ordinances, consider technology and best practices, past inspection experiences, and provide general clarification of certain aspects of the code language. Members include: Director Rich Anderson, Director Bill Cook, and Director Gary Hughes, and staff.
High-Water Declaration Policy Review
Regulations are in place addressing high lake water levels to protect people from injuries, property from damage, and the lake and its shoreline.
Based on experiences and feedback from the high-water declaration in 2019, LMCD staff and HCSO Water Patrol launched a project to gain additional feedback and review processes and procedures for High-Water Declaration. We believe it is important to have efficient and effective processes and procedures since high water has the potential to impact a variety of stakeholders.
Lake Minnetonka Vegetation & AIS Master Plan
The AIS picture has been changing as new threats appear in waters in Minnesota and across the nation. All treatment methods have come under scrutiny. Further, the most recent identification of starry stonewort in nearby Medicine Lake underscores the importance of minimizing the risk of exposure for Lake Minnetonka.
Stakeholder participation and support of other agencies, cities, businesses, neighborhood groups, and interested parties is part of the process to help facilitate a successful project. With the changing landscape of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) and ecology of Lake Minnetonka, having a holistic and scientific approach to address the current and future health of Lake Minnetonka effectively is critical.