about birkenhead lake estates
Birkenhead Lake Estates (BLE) is a private seasonal back-country recreational community on the shores of beautiful Birkenhead Lake, British Columbia. Accessed only by a private forest road, the property is surrounded by Provincial Park, and is home to a vast array of wildlife. It is ideal for fishing, hiking, boating, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and simply relaxing in your tranquil surroundings.
Formed in 1977, the community enjoys a quiet and rustic back-country feel while being within a reasonably close proximity to the Town of Pemberton, and further, Whistler Village and the City of Vancouver. BLE was incorporated by means of a Land Use Contract; a method used in the 70's by which recreational communities were created.
As a shareholder you do not own the land, but instead, own a voting share in the corporation which in turn, owns the land. This share then entitles the owner to the use of a specific parcel within the boundaries of the community. The lot is not deeded property and a realtor is not required for the transaction. Consequently, standard mortgage acquisition is not available. You own the improvements on your parcel. Your use of the premises is governed by the Articles and Bylaws of the company/community.
BLE is most similar to an Improvement District and is self governing. The local government (officially called the Board of Directors) is elected annually, and acts as council for the estates; managing its finances, accounts, bylaws and community projects.
Community services include a picnic area, boat launch, large dock and child-friendly beach. As such, all shareholders have lake access regardless of the location of their property. Each lot has running water from spring to fall and…did I mention there's running water? Water currently comes from a mountain lake/stream system, and is gravity fed to each lot. Lack of proper water filtration at this time means that we are on a boil water advisory until further notice. There is no electricity at Birkenhead Lake Estates. All cabins are off-grid, relying on a combination of generators, batteries and/or solar panels to run lights and other electronics.
A Caretaker is on site 24 hours and is responsible for road, worksyard and water system maintenance, security, and general site operational/ administrative duties.
Birkenhead Lake Estates is a member of the
Small Water Users Association of British Columbia