Are boats allowed in the lake?

Yes. A boat, canoe, or kayak can be placed into the reservoirs. Motors no larger than 10-horsepower may be used. If a boat with a larger motor is put in the reservoir, the larger motor must be disabled. All boats used on Norfolk reservoirs are required to have a Norfolk Boat Permit. For information on obtaining a permit, see the Boat Permit page

Types of boats that are not allowed in the reservoirs are stand up paddleboards, sailboats, houseboats, inflatables, and personal water craft (ex: jet skis), surfboards and similar devices.

Show All Answers

1. I'm buying a house on the reservoir. What do I need to know?
2. What lakes are owned by Norfolk and where are they located?
3. Does the City own other property around the reservoirs?
4. Is this property an easement?
5. Can I use the property?
6. What about fertilizers and other lawn care products?
7. Can I remove trees and underbrush near the water?
8. There are trees in the lake. Are they bad for the water?
9. Can I do anything to protect the shoreline from erosion?
10. Are boats allowed in the lake?
11. Can I launch a boat from my back yard?
12. Can I use a motorized boat? If so, what size motor can I use?
13. What uses are permitted in the lake?
14. Are there special requirements to boat on a City of Norfolk Reservoir?
15. How much does a boat permit cost?
16. How long is the boat permit good for?
17. Is the price of the boat permit pro-rated if I buy it later in the year?
18. Where can I purchase a boat permit?
19. Where can I purchase a daily permit?
20. What is the cost of a daily permit? Can I buy it ahead of time?
21. How long does it take to receive a boat permit?
22. What lakes can I operate my boat in with the Norfolk boat permit?
23. Where can I launch my boat?
24. Do I need a boat permit if I only have a canoe or kayak?
25. If I lose my boat permit, will I need to purchase a new one? If so, will it be the same price as the original?
26. Can I remove my old permit from my old boat if I purchase a new one and use it on the new one?
27. What is required to get a boat permit?