The Pinopolis Lock at Santee Cooper's Jefferies Hydroelectric Station was the highest single-lift lock in the world at the time of its construction. In it, boats up to 150 feet can be raised or lowered the 75 feet difference between the Tailrace Canal and Lake Moultrie. The lock is open from 1/2 hour after dawn until 1/2 hour before dusk year-round. No lock operations are performed during thunderstorms or when rough water exists.

How the Lock Works:

Step 1: Push the button and when someone answers request a lock operator. Please allow 15 minutes for the operator to arrive.

Step 2: Upon entering the lock, loosely pass a rope around one of the floating cleats provided so it can be readily released if cleat were to jam. Do not tie-off to floating or non floating cleats.

Step 3: Monitor your line while the water level in the lock rises or falls.

Step 4: Once the water level is equalized, leave the lock slowly (no-wake speed) through the open gates.

Important Notes:

To help us operate the Pinopolis Lock more safely and efficiently, please follow these rules:

1. Due to safety considerations, only motor-powered boats are allowed in the lock. Boats or watercraft must be at least 10 feet in length.
   
   
2. The maximum number of boats allowed in the lock at one time is determined by the lock operator depending on the sizes of the boats. Normally twelve 16-foot boats can be accommodated at one time.
   
   
3. The areas passed through while approaching the lock are to be used only while entering or exiting the lock. The area of the Tailrace Canal immediately in front of the powerhouse is a state fish sanctuary. Fishing in this area is prohibited by state law.
   
   
4. Boaters must obey all signs and lock operator's instructions.
   
   
5. The locking procedure takes between 20 and 45 minutes to complete. Keep in mind the hours of operation. Showing up at the last minute may result in having to wait until the following day to pass through the lock.
   
   
6. Please call ahead, (843) 899-LOCK (5625), if at all possible. This will reduce the amount of time you may have to wait for a lock operator.
   
   
7. No smoking or consumption of alcoholic beverages is permitted in the lock.
   
   
8. No swimming or diving is permitted inside the lock or within 600 feet of the powerhouse.
   
   
9. All boaters should remain seated and have life jackets or other approved floatation devices immediately available during locking operations.
   
   
10. All state laws are enforced by the S.C. Wildlife and Marine Resources Department.
    
    
11. Do not approach the lock, powerhouse, or dam during thunderstorms or rough water conditions.
    
    
12. Stay clear of the upstream (Lake Moultrie) end of the lock during locking procedure. Your boat is in danger of being caught under a concrete outcropping