The county executive office has released a statement in response to new laws that could allow swimming at Santa Margarita lake.
The executive office first emphasizes that swimming is not yet allowed at the lake, and there are important steps that must be completed before any changes could take effect. While the law takes effect January 1, 2027, that does not mean the public will be able to swim on that date either. Staff anticipates the summer of 2027 as the earliest day they could start.
Implementation requires addressing infrastructure needs, policies, and costs. Legislation would have to be authorized by the board of supervisors and city of San Luis Obispo.
The executive office anticipates lower-impact recreational activities such as swimming, windsurfing, and fishing will be permitted, while higher-impact activities are not currently envisioned.
