Our Community & History

Our Story

The History of Lake Sylvan

In 1944, George and Jeanette Allen purchased farmland in what is now South Vienna, Clark County, Ohio. Two years later, in 1946, they began construction of what would become Lake Sylvan, building a 21-foot earth dam spanning 580 feet on a tributary of Beaver Creek. Over the next few years, road access and electricity were brought in from Route 40, and lots were laid out along the lake.

The Allens built their home and became the first lake residents (other than their farm manager) in 1949. Shortly after moving in, all their farm buildings burned to the ground, forcing them to liquidate their surviving farm animals and equipment. After the fire, they laid out additional lots and sold some of the acreage, and the development continued its growth into what you see today.

The Sylvan Shores subdivisions were developed around the lake in three sections, offering residential lots with deeded access to the private lake for boating, fishing, swimming, and recreation.

The Property Owners' Association

The Lake Sylvan Property Owners' Association was organized to maintain the lake and common areas, uphold the community's recorded covenants and restrictions, and ensure that every homeowner can enjoy the benefits of lakefront living.

The association was formally incorporated as an Ohio nonprofit corporation on October 11, 1988 (Ohio Entity #734736) and holds federal tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(7). The POA owns approximately 33 acres of community land surrounding the lake.

Recorded Covenants

The Sylvan Shores subdivisions are governed by recorded covenants, conditions, and restrictions that run with the land. The current Amended Subdivision Restrictions, Easements and Rights were adopted by majority vote on October 12, 1985 and are recorded in Vol. 19, Pages 232-236 of the Clark County Official Records (filed January 15, 1986). These covenants are binding on all property owners and automatically renew every five years.

Among other provisions, the covenants establish a mandatory annual assessment for every property owner, payable to the association, which funds the maintenance of the lake and community operations.

Lake Sylvan Today

Today, Lake Sylvan remains one of Clark County's best-kept secrets: a private lake community with easy access to Interstate 70, located between Dayton and Columbus. The association continues to work toward improving the lake, maintaining community standards, and ensuring that Lake Sylvan remains a great place to live for years to come.