Lake Hartwell - Who Painted The Trees?

People new to Lake Hartwell frequently ask who painted the trees around the lake.  The orange stripes on the trees are marking the boundary line that separates the Corps of Engineers property surrounding the lake from the private property that individuals own.  This line, typically known as the corps line or the COE line, is very important.  The width of that line as it touches the private property determines the amount of lake frontage a property has and is important in determining dock size and dock location.  Any activity on the corps property is governed by permits.  The most common permits include dock, electricity, drinking water, improved pathway and under-brushing.