Swim Buoys

Swim Buoys on Lake Martin: What You Need to Know

Throughout the summer and into the fall, Lake Martin is a hotspot for boating and recreational activities. To ensure the safety of all lake users, it’s essential to understand and adhere to the guidelines set forth by Alabama Power Company and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) regarding the use of swim buoys.

Where Do Most People Swim?

A poll of Lake Martin Boaters members showed that nearly 90% of respondents swim off the end of their dock, while only 10% prefer to stay near the shoreline. This data highlights why swim buoy placement is such an important topic for homeowners and lake visitors. Since most people choose to swim in deeper water, properly placed swim buoys can help designate safe areas while reducing potential conflicts with boaters.

Key Regulations for Swim Buoys on Lake Martin

The Alabama Power Company has the following guidelines for swim buoys placed by homeowners;

Proximity to Shoreline or Structures: Swim buoys must be positioned no more than 50 feet from the shoreline or within 25 feet of an Alabama Power Company (APC)-permitted boat dock or structure. This ensures that buoys are close enough to mark safe swimming areas without encroaching on boating lanes.
Non-Interference with Boat Traffic: It’s crucial that swim buoys do not disrupt the legal flow of boat traffic. Proper placement helps prevent accidents and maintains harmony between swimmers and boaters.
Distinct Appearance: To avoid confusion, privately placed swim buoys should not resemble state-enforced regulatory markers. This distinction helps lake users easily identify official navigational aids from private markers.

Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in the removal of non-conforming buoys by ALEA. These regulations are designed to promote safety and ensure that all individuals can enjoy Lake Martin responsibly.

This No Wake Buoy is a state enforced regulatory marker, Swim buoys should NOT resemble these in any way.

Destruction of Buoys in past years

The Lake Martin Boaters online community has had numerous complaints over the years that homeowners swim buoys have been destroyed or stolen. Per a representative from ALEA, anyone destroying or stealing property is subject to prosecution under the law.

Safety and Courtesy

Homeowners on Lake Martin often use swim buoys to mark designated swimming areas, secure floating mats, or occasionally as a temporary mooring buoy for small watercraft. Homeowners have also been known to place them in areas that are shallow to help boaters not run aground. These buoys help define safe zones and create awareness for nearby boaters. Practicing courteous behavior such as slowing down near swim areas, minimizing wakes, and staying alert goes a long way toward ensuring that everyone enjoys the lake safely and respectfully.

Matthew Meehan, a homeowner on a busy section of Lake Martin is thankful for Alabama Power allowing the swim buoys; “On a busy lake like Lake Martin, swim buoys aren’t just markers they are a line between safety and tragedy. For my family, especially with kids swimming in a narrow pass, these buoys give us peace of mind by reminding boaters to slow down and respect the shared space. They protect not only those we love but also help foster a safer environment for everyone who enjoys the water.”

Implementing Change

In October of 2024 a proximity law was enacted for Lake Martin. Section 33-5-26.1 of the Code of Alabama applies to every motorized vessel. The new law prohibits ANY motorboat from operating above idle speed within 100 feet of any shoreline, dock, pier, boathouse or other structure.

Questions from the Boating Communnity

I reached out to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Marine Patrol with some recent questions in the Lake Martin Boaters Community in regards to swim buoys…

Can Swim Buoys be moved out to 100′ to comply with the proximity law? What will happen if I do?

No. Swim buoys can only be placed in accordance with APCO guidelines. If they are not in compliance, we’ll make an effort to move them into compliance one time. After that, we’ll remove them from the water.

How can I restrict the area around my dock from vessels?

The waters making up Lake Martin are public waters and private restrictions around private docks are not permissible. Boaters may not trespass upon private property but may access the waters around private docks. We recommend a common sense, courteous approach from all parties when it comes to sharing the lake.

I was told I can only have 2 buoys, is that true?

There is no restriction on the number of swim buoys, but they cannot interfere with boating traffic and may not be arranged in any configuration to prohibit a boat from accessing any portion of the lake. They cannot be used to “wall off” a swimming area or be aligned to keep boats out or away.

What can I do if I witness someone purposely destroy my swim buoy?

Be a good witness. Note the registration number of the vessel, description of it and occupants, take photos and video if possible – and call law enforcement.

Check your swim buoys

If you choose to install the orange swim buoys, remember they are not restrictive, boats can still use the water. Make sure they don’t drift into boat traffic or become a hazard, or Marine Patrol could remove them. Responsible placement and regular checks help ensure your buoys serve their purpose without creating risk or confusion. When used correctly, swim buoys can enhance safety and enjoyment for everyone on the lake while promoting a spirit of courtesy and shared responsibility.

Only the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is authorized to place regulatory, navigational buoys on public waters. All other buoys, per ALEA’s guidance, must adhere to the following:

They must be located no farther than 50 feet from the shoreline or 25 feet from an APC-permitted boat dock/structure.
They must not interfere with the legal flow of boat traffic.
They are not allowed to have the appearance of a state-enforced regulatory marker.

Any buoys not complying with this guidance are subject to removal by ALEA. To reach marine patrol about questions about swim buoys email; [email protected]

Disclaimer:
This article contains references to laws and regulations that may change over time. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the content at the time you read it. For the most current legal information and updates, please visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s official website at alea.gov.