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The Burke County Sheriff’s Office warns that illegally parked cars around the lake will be towed.

As warmer weather approaches, the Burke County Sheriff’s Office reminds citizens that parking is not allowed along the stretch of North Powerhouse Road.

Many people violate these no parking zones weekly, if not daily, to partake in summer heat relief in Lake James, according to information from BCSO.

The stretch of North Powerhouse runs approximately two miles from Benfield’s Landing Road to Laurel Ridge Court and is clearly marked with multiple “No Parking Anytime” fixed signs on both sides of the roadway.

Vehicles have been found by patrol officers to be impeding the flow of traffic and sometimes in the roadway in these blind dangerous curves. These violations can lead to traffic accidents and possible injuries, according to BCSO.

Duke Energy is proprietor and land owner to this stretch of North Powerhouse Road. In cooperation with their request, along with compliance of North Carolina General Statue, these no parking zones will be enforced. If the owner/operator of the vehicle is not located for removal of the vehicle in a timely manner, it will be towed at the registered owner’s expense, BCSO said in a press release.

Many people travel to the lake during summer months in order to seek refuge from the hot temperatures. However, there are designated areas, including the Lake James State Park, that meet these needs. BCSO asks that residents please use designated areas for swimming while in or around Lake James.