Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission

Regulatory Marker Applications

To install or remove any marker on Smith Mountain Lake or Leesville Lake, you must apply through the Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission (TLAC).

TLAC is the official agency designated by Franklin, Bedford, Campbell, and Pittsylvania counties to review marker requests. While TLAC processes your application and provides a formal recommendation, final approval is granted by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) and the United States Coast Guard (USCG).

Apply for a navigational buoy

How the Process Works

  1. Submit your application to TLAC.
  2. The TLAC Navigation Committee reviews the application and the site.
  3. The Committee submits a formal recommendation to the TLAC Board of Directors for their consideration.
  4. The TLAC Board of Directors recommendation is forwarded with your completed packet to the DWR and USCG for final approval.

Types of Markers

  1. Regulatory Markers
    These markers regulate vessel operation and are strictly enforced by law enforcement. Examples include:
    • "No-Wake" buoys
    • "Swim Area" buoys
    • "No Boats" buoys
  1. Navigational Aids
    These markers warn boaters of hazards or guide navigation. Examples include:
    • "Shoal", "Rock", or "Danger"
    • Mooring buoys
    • Channel markers and registered signs
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Rock Marker

Shoal Marker

No Wake Buoy

Swim Area

No Boats Buoy