The great state of New Hampshire is a fantastic place to own waterfront property. New Hampshire is blessed with dozens of lakes and ponds - which translates into miles of lakefront, pondfront, riverfront and in general waterfront property.

This northern New England state also features some spectacular oceanfront homes and property along its short but scenic coastline. If you are considering lakefront or oceanfront property, ask one of our recommended NH realtors or agents for assisitance in locating NH waterfront real estate.

Some waterfront real estate owners in New Hampshire (and other places) have attempted to clarify the laws regarding how close boats and swimmers can come to the actual shore or property before they are considered to be tresspassing. This can be complex and challenging issue regarding property owners rights and public domain.

The periphery which defines one’s property in relation to that of his neighbor, and what may be considered "public domain," is often subject to debate. Recently, an owner of waterfront property in New Hampshire questioned whether or not members of the public have the right to fish, anchor boats, swim, or otherwise make use of the water in front of his property, a zone which the property owner perceives as his “front yard.”

NH RSA 271:20 states that, “a body of fresh water having 10 acres or more” is open to the public. Therefore, any body of water covering an area of 10 acres or larger is owned by the state, and is available for public use regardless of any private residence that adjoins it. The fact that personal ownership ends at the waterline insures that members of the public may neither set foot on the shoreline without the owner’s permission, nor block the owner from entering or leaving his dock.

To determine if additional legal rights may apply in your specific instance, contact the New Hampshire Marine Patrol at (603) 293-2037, Lawline at 1-800-868-1212, or private counsel.


To learn more about waterfront property currently for sale in New Hampshire, visit our regional list of recommended New Hampshire Realtors.

Find New Hampshire Homes for Sale, commercial real estate and investment property by browseing the NH Living Real Estate sections. New Hampshire Realtors and Real Estate Agencies web sites are listed by region.

If you are a New Hampshire Realtor or Real Estate Agent and would like to be listed here, please contact us.