Table Rock Lake Boundary Line Resolution

These authorities allow USACE to address certain preexisting boundary line issues through a streamlined process, including the potential for eligible landowners to receive an easement for property use that includes the current owner and one future owner.

Location Requirements

To qualify for the boundary line resolution process, structures must:

• Be located above elevation 936 feet
• Be located below the fee land boundary line
• Have been in place before January 4, 2025
• Be situated on land managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Examples of Eligible Structures

The following types of improvements may qualify for resolution:

• Habitable Structures: Homes, cabins, or other dwellings
• Garages and Outbuildings: Detached garages, workshops, storage buildings
• Utilities: Electrical lines, water lines, sewer connections
• Septic Systems: Septic tanks, drain fields, and associated infrastructure
• Other Features: Other features may be considered

The boundary line resolution process follows a systematic approach designed to ensure fair treatment and transparency for all property owners.

Process Steps

• Identification: Landowners and USACE identify properties with potential boundary line issues through surveys and boundary analysis
• Notification: Property owners receive official notification if an issue is identified
• Consultation: Landowners meet with USACE staff to review property boundaries and discuss options
• Documentation: Property surveys and boundary line details are documented and verified
• Resolution Options: USACE presents available resolution options, including the potential for eligible landowners to receive an easement for property use that includes the current owner and one future owner
• Agreement: Landowners and USACE work toward a mutually acceptable resolution
• Implementation: Final agreements are executed and recorded

What to Expect

Throughout the process, USACE staff will:

• Clearly explain boundary line issues and details
• Answer questions about the resolution process and available options
• Provide written documentation of all findings
• Work collaboratively to find equitable solutions
• Respect property rights while fulfilling federal responsibilities

Workshop Schedule

What Workshops Offer

During the workshops, landowners will be able to:

• Sit down with USACE staff for one-on-one consultations
• Review property boundaries and survey information
• Research potential boundary line issues on their property
• Understand whether structures are eligible for the boundary line resolution process 
• Learn about resolution options and next steps
• Ask questions and receive detailed information

A flowage easement is a legal right held by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to temporarily flood private land during periods of high water. At Table Rock Lake, the flowage easement is set at elevation 936 feet.

Key Distinctions

• Fee Land (Government Owned): Land fully owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
• Flowage Easement (Private with Restrictions): Land privately owned but subject to flooding rights held by USACE
• Private Property (No Restrictions): Land fully owned by private parties with no government easements

Eligible Encroachment Zone

The boundary line resolution process applies only to structures located:

• Above elevation 936 feet
• Below the fee land boundary line
• On land that is owned by the federal government

How do I know if I have an encroachment?

In some instances, USACE boundary line inspections identified potential issues. If you have been previously notified, or if you have questions about your property, you can attend one of the public workshops or contact the Table Rock Project Office directly. You can also view the interactive map to see property boundaries.

What if my structure was there when I bought the property?

The program addresses boundary line issues regardless of when the current owner acquired the property. If the structure was in place before January 4, 2025, it may be eligible for resolution. Previous ownership does not affect eligibility.

Can I purchase the disputed land?

When allowed by federal law and regulations, eligible landowners may have the opportunity to purchase the parcel at fair market value. USACE staff will discuss specific options during individual consultations.

What happens if I don't resolve the boundary line issue?

USACE is committed to working with landowners to find equitable solutions. However, structures on federal land without authorization may be subject to removal or other enforcement actions under federal regulations. Early engagement in the resolution process provides the best outcomes.

How long does the resolution process take?

The timeline varies depending on individual circumstances, complexity of the issue, and the resolution option selected. USACE staff will provide estimated timelines and potential costs during individual consultations. USACE plans to expedite the the easement process with limited landowner costs. Other options may take longer and be costlier. 

Will I need to hire a surveyor?

Survey requirements will be dependent on the issue. USACE staff will discuss any survey requirements during consultations.

What if my structure is below elevation 936?

Structures below elevation 936 are not eligible for consideration. These will be addressed through standard enforcement processes to protect flood risk management and project operations.

Will this affect an owner's ability to get other shoreline permits?

No. Previously, unresolved boundary line issues could delay shoreline use permit requests for the same property. Under updated guidance, USACE will no longer delay permit requests because of existing boundary line issues. Instead, boundary line issues will be addressed through the new resolution process without holding up shoreline use permit actions.

Why is USACE acting on this issue now?

The district is using new authorities from WRDA 2024 and updated USACE guidance to resolve boundary line issues around Table Rock Lake. These authorities allow a clear process for eligible structures that existed before 4 January 2025. This is an opportunity to close out issues that have lingered for decades while protecting federal property and supporting adjacent landowners.