Q: Can I build a dock on Lake Lewisville?

A: I am often asked this question. The answer is no. Lake Lewisville is an Army Corps of Engineers lake. The Army Corps actually owns the lakefront land and they do not permit any structures to be built on their land. There are a handful of boat docks on the lake that were permitted in the 1960's and 1970's. These properties occasionally come available but as you can imagine, are usually pretty expensive. Most people on Lake Lewisville keep their boats in their garage, in storage or at one of the marinas. There are numerous public boat ramps on the lake so getting in the water isn't difficult. Still, if a boatdock or boathouse is a must for you, then Lake Lewisville isn't your lake.

Still, there are a number of benefits to living on Lake Lewisville. In addition to the great location and easy access to both Dallas and DFW airport, owning adjacent to the Army Corps land means you can enjoy the lakefront land behind your home knowing it will never be built on. This land is public use land and so you are free to enjoy the land leading into the lake without paying taxes on that additional land. It also means that when looking at the size of a lakefront lot, it will always feel larger than it is because of the additional Army Corps land. The look of that land is different in different parts of the lake. Sometimes there is some sort of fencing, sometimes not. Sometimes there is a retaining wall and again, sometimes not. You also don't have to worry about flood insurance like you do on some lakes, because the Army Corps will not permit you to build an inhabitable structure within the 537 ' line, which is the level of the 100 year flood plain. Sometimes the 537' will be on the Army Corps property, sometimes it is on your property, so it is important to look at the survey when purchasing lakefront property... especially if it is vacant land!

Toll bridge will save time!

Many of us are very excited about the new toll bridge going in across Lake Lewisville. This 122 million dollar project has been a long time in the making, but is due to be completed in the winter of 2009. The 1.7 mile bridge will cut drive time around the lake from approximately 45 minutes to an estimated 10. Those of us frequenting both sides of the lake cannot wait! The bridge is going in from Lakewood Village to Lake Dallas.

For an updated report, go to http://www.ntta.org/AboutUs/Projects/LLTB.htm

Lake Lewisville Facts

Lake Lewisville is approximately 29,592 acres impounded in 1954 with a maximum depth of 64 feet. It is owned and operated by the Army Corps of Engineers which owns and maintains the land around the entire perimeter of the lake. New boat docks are currently not permitted, however homes that have pre-existing docks have been grandfathered in, and therefore there are a handful of homes, generally in the $800,000 range and up that have a permitted dock. These homes are rare and do not come on the market very often. I typically see one or two a year come up for sale. The lake does have several access points, all around the lake. These include boat ramps, marinas, parks and swimming beaches.

Most lakefront homes range in price from $400,000-$1.3 million. However I know of a lakefront cottage for sale right now at $175,000. And there are a few in the $200,000-$350,000 price point, so it is possible to live on the lake in almost all price ranges. You can find everything on this lake from an old fishing cabin, a cozy family home a Mediterranian villa or a Castle. Whatever your flavor, Lake Lewisville has it. The same holds true of the lakefront terrain. There are homes built up over the lake with expansive views downward and a hike down to the water's edge to gently sloping access right out your door. Some lots have trees, trees and more trees, some have none.

There are also a number of lakeside communities, each with its own unique flavor. Little Elm, Lakewood Village and Oak Point are all quiet communities in comparison with the more populated West side, although the area has experienced a lot of growth in the last few years. Lots on this side of the lake tend to be an acre or more.The new toll bridge which should be completed by the Spring of 2009 is expected to cause a jump in property values as accessibility to the west side will be greatly improved. There are also plans for a new Town Center in Little Elm which call for hiking and biking trails, a movie theater and live theater, hotels and restaurants.

Most people don't realize that Frisco has lakefront homes on Lake Lewisville, too. There is a small pocket of homes with beautiful views and great neighborhoods with nice lake access and close to Hidden Cove marina. The Colony is another area of Lakefront homes with easy access to 121, great golfing and close to Pier 121 marina. The adult only negative edge pool in Stewart Peninsula overlooking the lake feels like a resort and is oh so luxurious.

Highland Village, Hickory Creek and Shady Shores are all off the major freeway, I-35E, which runs into Dallas. Homes on this side of the lake generally have a lot size from .25-.50 acre, although sometimes you will find a home that is on a larger or smaller lot. This side of the lake is characterized by a higher population concentration, and is close to many cultural and shopping opportunities.

Living on the lake is such a wonderful experience. I cannot imagine ever moving off. The views constantly change. And the wildlife is fun to watch too.

Here are some helpful links:
www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/lewisville/Lewisville_Lake.htm - for information about Lake Lewisville

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/fish/recreational/lakes/lewisville -for information about fishing Lake Lewisville

www.tea.state.tx.us - for area schools