Member Login

FAQs

Did the Annual Assessment increase pass?

Yes, on January 11th, the Association successfully reached a quorum and commenced a vote. The assessment increase passed by a two-thirds majority.
 
New Annual Rates (effective April 1, 2025):
$380.00- Primary Lot
$214.00- Secondary Lot
 

Did the definition of a Secondary lot change?
Yes, on January 11th, the Association successfully reached a quorum and commenced a vote. By member vote and with approval from a two-thirds majority, the definition of a Secondary lot was changed from "additional lots owned" to "lots within the same subdivision."
 
This change will take effect on April 1, 2025. If you own lots in multiple subdivisions, you will be charged for a primary lot for each subdivision in which you own property.
 
What are the Annual Assessment Rates?
Beginning April 1st, the Annual Assessment rate for Lakes of the North is $380.00 for a primary lot and $214.00 for each additional secondary lot. To qualify for the secondary lot rate, the ownership on the deeds must match, and the lots must be within the same subdivision.
 
Per the Association's Restrictive Covenants, Annual Assessments are due every April 1st.

Payments can be made online by signing into Member Central. Please note that a $10 service fee will apply. Some delinquent members may be restricted from accessing their online portal. Additionally, online payments may take longer to update in our system compared to other payment methods. You can also make payments by mailing a check or by phone using a debit or credit card. Please remember that a 3.5% surcharge will apply to debit card payments.
 
Please note: Payments that are postmarked after April 1st will be considered late and may incur late fees and interest. Delinquent accounts could be subject to collections, liens, and foreclosure. If you have questions about a delinquent account, please contact the Management Office at 231-585-6000. *This deadline has been extended to May 15, 2025, due to the ice storm. This extension applies to late fees and interest, not amenity use. 

 
What are the Pool Rules?

Pool Rules: 

* Children under the age of 5 are not permitted in the hot tub (no exceptions). 
* Only one person is allowed on the slide at a time and they must be seated.
* All minors under the age of 16 must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
* No food or drink is allowed in the pool area.
* All Members must shower before entering the pool area.
* Pool use must be suspended if there is lightning reported within 11 miles of the clubhouse. 
* No Running. 
*No Diving.
*No Lifeguard on Duty  

The Clubhouse Staff reserves the right to ask any member to leave the pool if these rules are not followed.

Pool Rules 
*You or your host must be a member-in-good-standing to use the clubhouse and pool. 

Clubhouse Info

Thank you for helping us keep the pool safe and enjoyable for all members! 
*The pool is closed every Tuesday for cleaning. 
Does it cost to use the pool?
The pay-to-play amenity fees for members were discontinued on April 1, 2025. However, please note that guests are still subject to usage fees. For detailed information on the rates applicable in 2025, please click the link below to review the updated fee schedule.
Why do I need a parking pass?
To protect our lakes and maintain a members-only environment, a parking pass is required for visiting the lakes.
 
The 2025 parking passes can be picked up at the AMO, Clubhouse, Beach House, or Campground at no cost. You must be a member in good standing to receive a pass. The parking pass is issued as a window hanger, which can be used in any of your vehicles. We also have stickers available for your golf cart or ATV. Please note that parking passes are for members only and should not be shared. A temporary pass will be issued for guests of members.
 
Staff will ask anyone at the beaches without a pass to leave. Failure to leave may result in a ticket from law enforcement.

*The Association does not mail parking passes. 

 
What is a Quorum?'
A quorum is the minimum number of votes needed, either in person or by proxy, to conduct the business of the Association or to hold a vote. To pass any changes to Lakes of the North assessments or to approve a special assessment, two-thirds of the established quorum is required. For more details, please refer to Article V, Section 6 of the Restrictive Covenants found under the Resources heading. Votes can be cast either in person or by proxy during the scheduled meeting.
What Are 'By-Laws?'
Bylaws are a set of rules and guidelines that govern the operation of a non-profit organization, such as a Board of Directors. They typically outline the definitions of offices and committees within the Board. Additionally, bylaws may cover voting rights, meeting protocols, notice requirements, and other aspects essential for the successful functioning of the organization.

Member Amended By-Laws
 
What are Restrictive Covenants?
A Restrictive Covenant is a legal obligation that is recorded in a deed when ownership of a home or property is transferred. These restrictions ‘run with the land,' meaning they apply to future owners of the property as well.

Anyone who purchases or obtains property in the Lakes of the North development must comply with the recorded Restrictive Covenants, including their limitations and requirements. These restrictions may pertain to factors such as the size, location, or type of structure, as well as the activities permitted on the property.

Additionally, the Association's Restrictive Covenants include provisions for collecting annual assessments.

Restrictive Covenants
 
What is a 'Proxy?'
The Lakes of the North Association’s Restrictive Covenants state that votes for assessment increases must be cast in person; absentee ballots are not allowed. Members may either vote in person or assign their proxy to the President of the Association or another member in good standing to vote on their behalf.
 
What is my Membership Number?
You may have encountered the terms "Jonas number" or "account number." This is the identifier assigned to your account for easy reference in our new Jonas software. To find your account number, you can call the Management Office at 231-585-6000 or, for a quicker response, email us at [email protected].

Your member number is also printed on your billing statements. 
 
Are Side by Sides allowed in Lakes of the North?
Please click HERE for the ORV Ordinance for Antrim County
Available Lot Info.

If you are interested in available lots, please call the Management Office at 231-585-6000 or email us at [email protected]. 

Lots are $2,000 and sold on either a Warranty Deed or a Quit Claim Deed. Warranty Deeds are an additional $850.00. 
What is a Board of Directors?
A director is an officer responsible for the conduct and management of the Association's business. The group of directors is collectively referred to as the Board of Directors, or BOD for short, and they are typically elected or appointed. The Lakes of the North Association Board consists of nine members who are elected by a vote from the members. Every year, three directors are elected for a three-year term.

You can find contact information for the BOD by logging into the Member Central portion of the website.  
 
What are Governing Documents?
Governing documents include the covenants, bylaws, operating policies/rules, articles of incorporation or any other documents which govern the normal operating procedures of the Association.
 
What is a Lien?
A lien is a financial claim placed against a property due to unpaid charges, such as association assessments. This lien is attached to the property rather than the owner and must be recorded in the property records of the county where the property is located. When a lien is in effect, the property owner has very limited ability to take any actions involving the property until the lien is satisfied or removed.
 
What is an 'Easement?'
An Easment is an interest or a right in real property which grants the ability to use the land of another for a special purpose or endeavor. A public utility may have an easement for repair work to be executed at a future date.
 
What is a 'Common Area?'
Common Area is area that may be used by all Lakes of the North members. The management of the common area is by the Association which collects annual assessments from the members to pay for the building and facility upkeep, maintenance, and improvements.
 
What are Ordinances?
An Ordinance is an individual or set of laws adopted by local government at the county or township level.
What is the Greenbelt area?
All of the Lakes of the North lakes have at least 50' Greenbelt of common area that surround them. These Greenbelts were designed to protect the natural character, environment, and ecology of our lake shores. These Greenbelt areas preserve the natural beauty and vegetative cover of our common areas and shore lands.Greenbelts move with the water levels.
 
What if my property is bordered by a Greenbelt area?
The Greenbelt area adjacent to your lot is the property of the Lakes of the North Association and is subject to preservation rules. Any alteration to the Greenbelt which violates these rules may result in a request by the Association to make restoration or modifications. You may find the Greenbelt Regulations on this website - under L/N Documents - Other Documents.
 
Where are my membership cards?
Lakes of the North has introduced a new software system called 'Jonas' that eliminates the need for paper membership cards. To access the amenities, simply visit the amenity building of your choice with your photo ID (such as a driver's license or state-issued ID). You will be looked up and granted access accordingly.
 
I'm a new owner in Lakes of the North but have not received any information?
Welcome to the neighborhood! Once you receive your recorded deed back from the county, please email a clear photo of it to [email protected] so we can update our membership system. Don’t forget to include your contact information.
 
Please note that assessment fees may be due upon the transfer of ownership. The county does not notify the Association when a lot is bought or sold, but new owners typically receive a copy of the recorded deed within a few weeks.

Some Antrim County documents are available to the public HERE. A printing fee may apply. 

*Please note that Lakes of the North does not send a Welcome Packet to new property owners. All association information is available on our website or by contacting the Management Office at [email protected] or 231-585-6000.
What if I am no longer interested in my property?
Lakes of the North is not a licensed real estate agency and therefore cannot assist you in selling your property. You can sell your lot like any other property, but you must notify the association of the sale by providing a copy of the recorded deed once the transaction is finalized.

In certain situations, the Association may allow you to return your lot to us. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis. Generally, all debts must be paid in full, and taxes must be current for you to qualify for this option. Please note that we do not buy back lots and cannot sell lots on behalf of members.
 
If you are no longer interested in your lot, please contact the Management Office to discuss your options at 231-585-6000 or [email protected]

 
I sold my lot(s) in Lakes of the North but still received a billing statement?
Newly recorded deeds are mailed to the new owner, who is required to provide these ownership documents to the Association. If you have sold your lot and are still receiving billing statements, it may be because we have not yet received the new deed. To stop the statements from being sent to your name, please email a copy of the newly recorded deed to [email protected], and we will update our membership records accordingly.
 
The Association cannot obtain legal ownership documents on behalf of its members. If you need a copy of your deed, please contact the county Register of Deeds office.
 
Please note that if you have an unpaid, delinquent balance from before you sold or lost your lot, we will continue to make every effort to collect this amount. Members are responsible for paying assessments for each fiscal year they own property within the Association. A past-due balance does not disappear when a lot is sold or lost to tax foreclosure. Unpaid balances may be referred to a collection agency.

Some Antrim County documents are available to the public by clicking HERE. A printing fee may apply. 
 
Where can I drop my trash off in Lakes of the North?
On Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, you can drop off your trash at our Airport between 10 AM and 2 PM. The cost is $5.00 per 30-gallon bag.
I want to develop my lot.

All members of Lakes of the North must complete an Architectural Control Committee (ACC) Permit and submit it to the Committee for review and approval before undertaking any development or construction on their lot. This requirement applies to building a home, garage, woodshed, or addition, as well as installing a fence or removing trees. Additionally, it is crucial to obtain a permit from the county to ensure that your construction is legal and safe. Failure to secure permits from both the ACC and the county may lead to a notice and/or a fine. A legal survey is required. 

Click HERE for Otsego County Building Permits and information.

Click HERE for Antrim County Building Permits and information.

You can find your lot's dimensions by clicking HERE.
 

The ACC Committee meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month. To have a permit included on the meeting agenda, it must be submitted by the previous Monday. A permit will NOT be considered complete and cannot be added to the agenda until all pages are fully completed and submitted, and the permit fee is paid.

Stand-alone pole barns and garages are prohibited. All lots not otherwise specifically designated upon a recorded plat or recorded Declaration by Developer shall be used for residential purposes only, and no business, commercial or manufacturing enterprise, shall be conducted on said premises.  No building shall be erected, altered, placed or permitted to remain on any lot other than one single family dwelling not exceeding two and one-half stories in height, and one private garage or boathouse, or combination garage and boathouse for family automobiles and boats. The outside finishing of all buildings must be completed within one (1) year after construction has started, and no asphalt shingles, imitation brick, building paper, insulation board or sheathing or similar non-exterior materials shall be used for the exterior finish of any such building; exterior finish shall be wood or asbestos shingles or siding, logs, brick, stone or concrete. Every dwelling house shall have not less than 600 square feet of enclosed living space exclusive of porches, breezeways, carports, patios, pool areas, garages and other accessory uses. * Square footage requirements are dependent on the subdivision. 

Please review the Lakes of the North Restrictive Covenants, which outline the rules, expectations, and minimum square footage requirements. Once you have determined that these rules align with your development plans, please submit your Architectural Plan to the Architectural Control Committee using the link provided below.
 
Submission options: Mail, drop-off, or email: [email protected] 
Permit fee payment options: Mail, drop-off, or call 231-585-6000 (please note there is a 3.5% surcharge for credit card payments made over the phone).

 
**No development is allowed without ACC approval. A hard copy of your permit will be provided upon approval. Permits cannot be reviewed or approved until all documents are properly submitted, an ACC review is conducted, and full payment is received.
Why does my Property have a lien?
The Association will record a lien on any property that has outstanding assessment payments. This action is also the initial step in pursuing legal foreclosure.
 
If your property has an assessment lien recorded against it, please contact the Management Office at 231-585-6000 or email [email protected]. All debts associated with a particular lot must be resolved before we can record a lien discharge.
 
Please be aware that lots purchased without proper title work may carry liens or other encumbrances. The only way to ensure that a lot has a clear title is to obtain title work. We also recommend that prospective buyers contact the Association before purchasing any lot within the Association.
 
Does Lakes of the North use a Collection Agency?
If you do not pay your assessments, your account may be sent to a collection agency or law office. If that happens, you will be contacted by either Sherloq Collection Agency or Velo Law Office. In the event of a judgment against you for non-payment, your wages, tax returns, and other income may be garnished.
 
Additionally, if you fail to pay your assessments, your account may be referred to our attorney to initiate the lien and foreclosure process. According to the Restrictive Covenants, any legal fees incurred will be the sole responsibility of the delinquent member.
 
Assessments are due on April 1st of each fiscal year. Payments postmarked after April 1st will be considered late and may incur late fees and interest.
 
We want to work with you to find a solution. If you have an overdue balance and would like to discuss your options, please contact the Management Office at 231-585-6000. You may qualify for a payment plan.
 
Please remember that you are allowed to make payments throughout the year. Each payment will be credited to your account, which will reduce the amount you owe by April 1st.
 
How do I reach the Management Office?
The management office is located within the clubhouse at 6273 Pineview Dr, Mancelona, MI. The office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. You can also contact the staff via email at [email protected] or by phone at 231-585-6000.
Who is the General Manager?
James Duffy is the Acting General Manager of Lakes of the North. He is available during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 4 PM. You can reach Mr. Duffy by visiting his office inside the Clubhouse or via email at [email protected].  
 
How do I stay updated?
It is important to keep the association updated with your current address and contact information. You can find most information on our website or our Official LOTN Facebook Page. We encourage you to call the Management Office to speak with our staff if you have any questions.
 
All members in good standing have access to the Member Central section of our website, where you can watch Town Hall meetings and Board of Directors meetings if you are unable to attend in person.
 
Please make sure to obtain information only from official and authorized social media channels.

 
Can I camp on my vacant lot?
No, the Restrictive Covenants does not permit camping on vacant lots. Property owners in good standing can camp at our members-only campground, Campers Village. For more information, please call 231-585-6828.
 
Are short-term rentals allowed?
The Restrictive Covenants clearly state that Lakes of the North is designated for residential use only. Any commercial use of properties, including short-term rentals, is prohibited.
Can I have chickens?
No animals, livestock, or poultry of any kind shall be raised, bred, or kept on any lot, except for dogs, cats, or other household pets. These pets may be kept as long as they are not raised, bred, or maintained for any commercial purposes.
Where do I report blight?
The Association treats blight violations with utmost seriousness and is actively working to resolve these issues. Several factors, including county and township regulations, influence how we address blight. If you notice a property that you believe violates the Association's rules or has blight issues, please contact the Management office at 231-585-6000 or email us at l[email protected].

What is Blight? A blighted property is a physical space or structure that is no longer in acceptable or beneficial condition to its community.
I want to sell my property, where do I start?
Lakes of the North does not function as a realtor, so we are unable to sell property on behalf of our members. However, association property can be sold like any other property. Once a property is sold and a new deed is recorded, the buyer or seller must provide a copy of the deed to the Association so that we can update our records accordingly.
I don't use the amenities, do I still owe assessments?

Yes, Lakes of the North membership is determined by property ownership, not by usage. Assessments must be paid for each fiscal year during which you own property in Lakes of the North, regardless of amenity use.

ARTICLE V

COVENANT FOR MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENTS

Section 1.  Creation of the Lien and Personal Obligation of Assessments.   The developer being the owner of all the properties hereby covenants and each subsequent owner by acceptance of a land contract and/or a deed therefore, whether or not it shall be expressed in any such deed or contract is deemed to covenant and agree to pay to the Association;  (1) annual assessments or charges;  (2) special assessments for capital improvements, such assessments to be fixed, established, and collected from time to time as hereinafter provided.  The annual and special assessments, together with such interest thereon and costs of collection thereof as hereinafter provided, shall be a charge on the land and shall be a continuing lien upon the property against which each assessment is made.  Each such assessment, together with such interest thereon and cost of collection thereof as hereinafter provided, shall also be the personal obligation of the person who was the Owner of such property at the time when the assessment fell due. 

How does Membership work?

In accordance with Article III Membership and Voting, section 3.03 A. Designation of Member Entitled to Use Common Properties. Every Member has a right in the nature of an easement to use and enjoy the Common properties under Article IV, Section 1 of the Declaration. To ensure the use of Common Properties is consistent with the Members’ residential use of the Common Properties, to prevent unauthorized use of the Common Properties, and to protect the Common Properties from damage and increased wear-and-tear occasioned by over-use, each Member shall designate one (1) individual who is entitled to use the Common Properties. Such designated individual, their spouse or partner, and their immediate family members under the age of twenty-one (21) who reside with the designated individual shall be entitled to enjoy the Common Properties. All other individuals with an ownership interest in the lot shall have the status of guest, whose use of the Common Properties shall be in accordance with subsection B. 


Please refer to Article III Membership and Voting, Section 3.03 A of the By-Laws, as well as the section on Guests.

Principal Ownership forms are available at the Management Office. For more information, please call 231-585-6000. 

 
Who maintains the roads?
The roads throughout the Lakes of the North community are maintained by the county Road Commission.

Antrim County: 231-587-8521
Otsego County: 989-732-5202
Are mobile homes allowed?
Yes, mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, are permitted only in The Villa subdivision.

Modular homes, on the other hand, can be constructed in other subdivisions but must adhere to all building codes and regulations. It's important to note that mobile homes and manufactured homes are not the same as modular homes; therefore, these terms should not be used interchangeably.


Mobile_Homes_vs_Modular_Homes
Are lots marked?
No, unlike campgrounds or mobile home communities, individual lots at Lakes of the North are not marked. However, maps are available to assist you in locating your lot, and a legal survey is required before any lot development can take place. Lakes of the North encompasses 8,023 lots spread over 10,000 acres.  
Are surveys required?
The Lakes of the North Association requires that a survey be completed and attached to all tree-cutting and building permit applications. This ensures proper setbacks and helps prevent lot line encroachments. If you already possess a legally binding survey, you can attach a copy to your permit application. A new survey is not required each time you plan to develop your property.
 
Below is the name of a licensed surveyor who is familiar with our Association’s requirements.


Brand Land Surveying LLC
533 Greenfield Drive
Gaylord, MI 49735
989-732-8077

https://www.brandlandsurveying.com/
Can I hunt in Lakes of the North?
The Lakes of the North Restrictive Covenants does not include any restrictions or rules related to hunting. All hunting and shooting regulations are determined by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). For further information, please contact them directly or click here.

If you have a complaint regarding someone's hunting or shooting practices, please reach out to the DNR or your local law enforcement.
Can I find legal documents online?
Please be aware that Lakes of the North is not notified of lot sales and does not receive legal documents following a sale.
 
Legal documents are available to either the buyer or the seller through the county Register of Deeds. Recorded deeds are typically mailed to the buyer and the buyer notifies the association of their purchase by providing a deed to our management office.
 
Some documents from Antrim County can be accessed by the public on the AVA website. However, not all documents are available, and it takes a minimum of 30 days for any new documents to become accessible. A printing fee may apply.
 
Please note that documents from Otsego County are not available online without software subscription.
 
Where can I find the county parcel search websites?
Click Here for the Antrim County parcel search website. 

Click Here for the Otsego County parcel search website. 

To access county-generated maps, start by locating your lot on the parcel search page and then select the GIS option. This will generate a map for you. Keep in mind that the two counties offer different options on their websites. You can search for your lot using the name, address, or parcel number.

Some Antrim County documents are available to the public by visiting their AVA website. Fees may apply. 

 
Where do I pay my taxes?
Taxes are not collected by the association. To pay your taxes, please contact the county treasurer's office.

Antrim County: 231-533-6720
Otsego County: 989-732-6484

 
I bought a lot from a tax auction, now what?
If you purchased a lot from the county tax auction, neither Otsego County nor Antrim County will notify the association of your purchase or provide a copy of the deed. As the new owner of a lot within an association, you are required to provide a copy of the recorded deed to the association.

If you have questions, please contact the Management Office at 231-585-6000 or by email at [email protected] 
Why is my name on the Delinquency List?
On March 19, 2022, the Board of Directors passed a motion regarding agenda item 10E, establishing a policy to post a list of members who have not paid their assessments. This list will be updated every Tuesday to reflect any payments made by the close of business the previous Friday.

The Delinquency List includes the names of members who are currently making payments, as well as those in lien, foreclosure, arrears, or collections. This list is only available to members in good standing who have access to the Member Central section of our website. Please note that online payments may take longer to post.

If you believe your name has been listed incorrectly, please contact the Management Office at [email protected].
Helpful Information & Burn Permit Info:


Burn Permit Info: Click Here