Save yourself the Time and Money
Ask B.R.A. First!

Why is BRA involved in land management?
In the late 1930's the Brazos River Authority began acquiring land to build Possum Kingdom Lake. During this difficult time we know as the Depression, many landowners chose to sell all rather than part of their land holdings. These sales left the Authority with much more land than the amount needed to build the lake.

Not long after the lake was filled, the Authority began leasing this land for camping and hunting. Over the years, the cabins once built for weekend camping and fishing began to evolve into full-time home sites. It was the growing development on Possum Kingdom Lake that prompted the Authority’s Board of Directors to set standards on development and construction to properties around the lake.

What type of development requires Authority approval?
Any alterations made to property on Possum Kingdom Lake or on Authority land/easements require advance approval and the issuance of a permit. Some examples that require permitting are dredging and filling, cutting trees, clearing undergrowth, landscaping, constructing or altering a home or improvement, enclosing a porch or carport, moving in or replacing a mobile home, building or repairing a dock, retaining wall or other structure constructing roads, constructing or altering a septic system, and installing utilities.

Why can't I alter this land without Authority approval?
Since Possum Kingdom Lake is a hydropower-generating reservoir, the Authority is obligated to enforce rules and regulations set by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Moreover, the Authority is committed to ensuring the scenic beauty of the lake by defining development and the construction of structures. When you alter or build on this land without first obtaining the proper permit from the Authority, you may be in violation of FERC, certain state and federal laws and regulations and Authority policy.

When do I contact Brazos River Authority?
It is best to contact the Possum Kingdom Lake Office to inquire about possible uses of a specific area before purchasing or leasing lake property or signing a contract. Rights and restrictions vary from one piece of property to another, so it is essential to speak directly with the staff about your specific site.

If you already own lakefront property or have an Authority lease, call or write before making any alterations to the land or shoreline. No construction should be undertaken until the necessary permits are obtained.

How do I begin?
First, write or call the Possum Kingdom Lake Office.  Tell them what you plan to do.  They will provide the appropriate applications and instructions that can be used in requesting BRA approval.  It's simple to apply and the Possum Kingdom Lake Office staff is ready and willing to help you.

How does the approval process work?
After you send your completed application to the Possum Kingdom Lake Office, the staff will review your file and schedule a site inspection. If there are any outstanding fees due, you will be asked to pay them at this time. Once the site inspection is complete, the Authority will issue a permit so that you may move ahead with your project. Please allow a minimum of 10 business days for processing your application.

Who checks to see if lake residents are getting proper approvals?
Authority staff makes routine inspections of land and shorelines. Records are kept of existing approvals. If any unauthorized alterations or construction is observed, the lake resident is notified of the violation.

What happens if I proceed with out approval?
Failure to obtain prior approval from Brazos River Authority may result in jeopardizing your investment. You may have to remove the structure, make expensive modifications, or replace what was damaged or removed. You may also have difficulty refinancing or selling property or lease if you build in violation of a lease agreement. Authority Lake Rangers are empowered to issue citations for unauthorized activities. Failure to comply could result in legal action. To save yourself time and money.call the Brazos River Authority first!