The Buoys are owned and maintained by the Town of Fox Lake.

​In Wisconsin, regulations govern the cutting and removal of aquatic plants in lakes to protect native ecosystems and prevent the spread of invasive species. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oversees these activities under Chapter NR 109 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code. Learn more at ​Wisconsin DNR Wisconsin Legislature Docs From the Wisconsin DNR website: Permit Requirements: Manual or Mechanical Removal: No Permit Needed: If you're a shoreline property owner (riparian owner) and wish to manually remove aquatic plants within a single 30-foot-wide area along your shoreline for access purposes, you can do so without a permit. This area should be adjacent to or include a dock, swim raft, or similar recreational device. All removed plant material must be collected and disposed of on land to prevent reintroduction into the waterbody. ​Wisconsin DNR+1Wisconsin DNR+1 Permit Required: For removal beyond the specified 30-foot-wide area, or if using mechanical equipment (such as mowers or cutters), a permit is required. This ensures that larger-scale plant management does not adversely affect the lake's ecosystem. ​Wisconsin DNR+2Wisconsin DNR+2Wisconsin DNR+2 Chemical Control: Applying herbicides to control aquatic vegetation always requires a permit from the DNR, regardless of the area size. This measure ensures that chemical treatments do not harm non-target species or degrade water quality. ​ Special Considerations: Protected Species and Sensitive Areas: If the area contains wild rice, wild celery, or is a designated sensitive area, additional restrictions apply. In such cases, any plant removal, regardless of method or area size, requires consultation with the DNR and may necessitate a permit. ​Wisconsin DNR+1Wisconsin DNR+1 Invasive Species: When removing invasive species like Eurasian watermilfoil or curly-leaf pondweed, it's crucial to ensure complete removal and proper disposal to prevent fragmentation and spread. ​Wisconsin DNR Steps to Take: Identify the Plants: Before initiating removal, accurately identify the aquatic plants to determine if they are native or invasive. This identification can influence the management approach and permit requirements.​ Consult the DNR: If uncertain about the need for a permit or the identification of plant species, contact your local DNR Aquatic Plant Management Coordinator for guidance. ​Wisconsin DNR+1Wisconsin DNR+1 Apply for Permits if Necessary: If your planned activity requires a permit, submit the appropriate application through the DNR's ePermitting system. ​Wisconsin DNR+8Wisconsin DNR+8Wisconsin DNR+8 Adhering to these regulations helps maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems and ensures compliance with Wisconsin state laws.

​The Town of Fox Lake has established specific ordinances to regulate activities on Fox Lake. Key regulations include:​ Water Use and Boating Regulations on Fox Lake Slow-No-Wake Zones: No person may operate a boat at more than slow-no-wake speed within 200 feet of the shoreline. Additional designated no-wake zones include: Government Marsh Area: From the shoreline east of Trailer Island to the shoreline east of Delbern Acres. Jug Area: West of the bog island. Inlet Area: West of a line from Maple Point to Devils Island to Howard Drive. When water levels exceed 90.75 feet (measured at the Chief Kuno Trail culvert), the entire lake becomes a no-wake zone​. Swimming from Boats: Allowed only if the boat is properly anchored. Swimmers must stay within 100 feet of the boat. Boats must carry Coast Guard-approved flotation equipment​. Water Skiing Restrictions: Not allowed between sunset and sunrise. Must remain at least 100 feet from various objects, including swimmers, bridges, public landings, etc. No more than two tows or one person per tow is allowed​. Personal Watercraft (PWC) Hours: PWCs may only operate after 10:00 a.m. and before sunset on Fox Lake​. Anchoring and Mooring: Prohibited to live, sleep, or camp on a boat between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.. Cannot anchor at private or public landings without permission, except in emergencies. Boats must be properly secured and cannot anchor near aerators marked by buoys​. Residency on Boats: Staying on a boat for more than two consecutive days in a year is not allowed​. Construction and Water Obstructions: Permits are required for piers, marinas, lagoons, and artificial structures in or near the water. Structures must not obstruct navigation or be in a state of disrepair​. Miscellaneous Prohibitions: Tampering with navigation aids, littering in the lake, and obstructing waterways are all prohibited​.