Lake Use & Safety
Runyan Lake Inc. manages lake access, water quality, and community events, while also ensuring boating safety. This page provides essential information about membership classes, lake use policies, and boating rules to keep our community safe and enjoyable.
Quick Facts
- 📜 Incorporated in 1950
- 🌊 Private all‑sports lake
- 🏢 Managed by Runyan Lake Inc.
- ⚙️ Oversees water quality, weed control, events, ramp, and island
- 🗺️ First mapped in 1859 — natural lake with island present
- 🏗️ Identified as marl deposit in 1900, but never mined
- 🏡 Subdivisions established in 1928–1932, lake size unchanged
- 🪧 Historic plaque ties lake to 1800s bridge building industry
Maps & Resources
Runyan Lake Inc. provides maps and reference materials to help members better understand the lake’s layout, depth, and surrounding regulations.
- Navigation Map
- Topography Map
- 3D Depth Map
- Michigan Shoreline Permitting
- Beach Sanding or Fill
- Livingston County Road Commission
Did You Know?
Runyan Lake covers approximately 180 acres and reaches depths of over 50 feet in some areas.
Boating Safety
Safe boating is essential to enjoying Runyan Lake. The following guidelines summarize
speed limits, equipment requirements, and responsibilities for all boaters.
🚤 Speed & Wake Rules
- Observe posted speed limits and designated no‑wake zones.
- Reduce speed near shorelines, swimmers, and docks.
- Follow hours of operation for high‑speed boating.
🛟 Safety Equipment
- Life jackets must be available for all passengers.
- Navigation lights are required after dark.
- Fire extinguishers must be carried on motorized boats.
🏊 Respect for Swimmers & Shoreline
- Maintain safe distance from swimmers and other watercraft.
- Avoid creating wakes that damage shorelines or docks.
- Be courteous to fellow lake users at all times.
⚖️ Legal Compliance
- All boaters must comply with Michigan boating laws.
- Violations may result in fines or loss of lake privileges.
- Runyan Lake Inc. enforces safety rules to protect the community.