News

SAMLARC is dedicated to preserving a safe and beautiful environment at Lago Santa Margarita. To help everyone enjoy the lake responsibly, please keep the following community reminders and safety guidelines in mind. 

Community safety is a key SAMLARC priority. If you experience or witness an emergency requiring medical assistance, need to report a crime, or require protective services, please call 911 immediately. 

Cycling around the Lake? Be sure to pedal and make way for others. Unauthorized motorized vehicles are strictly prohibited. E-Bikes may only be used in pedal mode on designated paths and must not be operated using motor power. SAMLARC aligns with the City of Rancho Santa Margarita Municipal Code §12.08.030, which prohibits unsafe usage of e-bikes and other motorized transportation. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping the walkways safe for all pedestrians by following these rules at all times. 

For non-emergency situations, SAMLARC staff and security are available to assist, though they are not law enforcement. Please contact SAMLARC staff to report suspicious activity, disruptive behavior along the lakeshore, fishing in restricted areas, or pets that are off leash. The team is available daily from 9 AM to 5 PM at 949-858-1390. For after-hours concerns, please call 800-428-5588. Throughout the day, you may also see SAMLARC team members walking along the Lakeshore to engage with and assist visitors. 

If you come across injured or distressed wildlife, please contact Mission Viejo Animal Services (MVAS) directly at 949-470-3045 (available daily from 12 PM–4 PM). Please note that SAMLARC staff and vendors are not trained to handle wildlife rescue. When visiting with your dog, ensure they remain leashed at all times and that you use provided waste bags to clean up after them. Pets are not allowed inside the Beach Club. 

Responsible fishing at the Lake is a time-honored SAMLARC summer activity! If you plan to fish, please do so only in designated areas. Properly dispose of any extra bait, hooks, and fishing lines at the designated lure stations. For complete fishing guidelines, visit SAMLARC.org/fishing or scan the QR code available on community flyers. 

If you have any questions, feel free to stop by the SAMLARC Beach Club Office, open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, call 949-858-1390, or visit SAMLARC.ORG. Thank you for helping keep our lake safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone!