LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — With lake levels increasing in Clear Lake due to recent storm activity, motorboat users are reminded of local recreation Ordinance 3065, which requires idle speed when boating within one-quarter mile or less from the shore of Clear Lake.

“Idle speed” means operating a motorboat at a speed that does not produce a wake, protecting shoreline property and infrastructure from harmful wave action.

This ordinance goes into effect when the lake reaches 8.0 feet or higher on the Rumsey scale — the special measure for Clear Lake — for a 24 hour period.

The requirements are lifted when Clear Lake drops to 7.9 feet Rumsey, or lower, for a 24-hour period.

Clear Lake has retained over the 8.0 foot Rumsey mark since 8:45 a.m. Saturday and remained there early Sunday, according to the US Geological Survey’s gauge on the lake.

Clear Lake is considered “full” at the 7.56 foot Rumsey mark.

Boaters are responsible for checking the lake level before boating on Clear Lake. Violating this ordinance constitutes a misdemeanor and may result in a fine not to exceed $500, or up to six months imprisonment in the County Jail.

Additionally, all boaters are advised to use extra caution when operating motorboats throughout Clear Lake due to floating and submerged debris hazards resulting from recent storm events.

Floating and submerged debris such as trees, branches, full or partial floating docks, abandoned or detached boats, trash, and other objects can cause significant damage, particularly when coming into contact with boats operating at normal to significant speed.

Boaters should remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings and maintain a safe, slower speed when boating throughout all of Clear Lake this time of year.

For questions regarding this topic, or to report in-lake hazards such as debris, floating docks, or missing or found hazard buoys, contact the Water Resources Department at 707-263-2344 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..