FAQ

Welcome to the Lockheart Community FAQ page! Here, we've gathered some of the most common questions about our unique community living experience. Whether you're curious about our lifestyle, have practical inquiries about joining, or just want to understand our vision better, you're in the right place. These FAQs are crafted to provide you with clear, concise answers and a deeper insight into life at Lockheart.

  • Where is the community located?

    Our community is perched atop a 320m elevation in Carleton County, New Brunswick, boasting scenic views of Moose Mountain and Mars Hill, Maine. You can find us somewhere here on Google Maps. The area is accessible via a well-maintained, paved road and includes amenities like garbage collection.

  • What's the climate like throughout the year?

    Carleton County experiences a diverse range of weather throughout the year:

    • January: Highs of -5°C, Lows of -15°C, Average snowfall of 80cm.
    • February: Highs of -3°C, Lows of -14°C, Average snowfall of 65cm.
    • March: Highs of 1°C, Lows of -9°C, Average snowfall of 35cm.
    • April: Highs of 8°C, Lows of -1°C, Average rainfall of 65mm.
    • May: Highs of 18°C, Lows of 4°C, Average rainfall of 75mm.
    • June: Highs of 23°C, Lows of 9°C, Average rainfall of 85mm.
    • July: Highs of 25°C, Lows of 12°C, Average rainfall of 90mm.
    • August: Highs of 24°C, Lows of 11°C, Average rainfall of 85mm.
    • September: Highs of 19°C, Lows of 6°C, Average rainfall of 85mm.
    • October: Highs of 12°C, Lows of 0°C, Average rainfall of 85mm.
    • November: Highs of 5°C, Lows of -5°C, Average snowfall of 20cm.
    • December: Highs of -2°C, Lows of -12°C, Average snowfall of 75cm.
  • What are the costs involved in joining the community?

    To join our community, there is a membership fee. Details about the fee structure, including options for different types of memberships, can be found on our membership page.

  • What does it take to live on the property full-time?

    Living full-time in our community means having a self-contained tiny house on wheels, as we currently don't have power, water, or sewer hookups. A self-contained unit should have its own power source, waste management, and water supply.

  • Can people visit the community?

    Yes, visitors are welcome! Potential members can email lockheartnb@gmail.com to set up a tour and stay. For a temporary experience of our lifestyle, check out our listings on AirBNB and HipCamp.

  • How do you handle the snow and cold in winter?

    Currently, members do not stay on the property during winter, but starting in 2024, we'll be experiencing our first winter season. Each tiny house for members staying over winter must be equipped with at least one heat source and independent power. Our goal is to build infrastructure to support winter living in the future.

  • Are there any requirements for the design or aesthetics of the tiny houses?

    There are no specific aesthetic requirements for tiny houses. In the future, we're open to members building permanent structures, including traditional stick small houses or homes made from cob, cordwood, straw bale, etc. We're also aspiring to build a community center following the Earthship design.

  • Is there a community support system in place?

    We're actively building our support system both within our community and in the broader Carleton County area, which is known for its tight-knit community spirit. This includes developing internal resources and collaborating with local networks.

  • How does the community make decisions?

    Decision-making in our community is consensus-based. We hold annual meetings to discuss large projects and individual member contributions, ensuring that every voice is heard and considered in shaping our collective future.

  • What kinds of community activities are there?

    Community activities range from gardening and building projects to social events and wellness programs. We encourage members to suggest and host events, fostering a dynamic and engaging community environment.

  • Is this legal?

    Absolutely! We understand the importance of operating within the framework of the law. Our community has been meticulously planned and established in compliance with all relevant local, provincial, and federal regulations. We have taken great care to ensure that our living structures, community practices, and environmental initiatives adhere to the legal standards set for housing, zoning, and sustainability.

    Our commitment to legality goes beyond just meeting minimum requirements. We strive to be a model community that sets high standards for sustainable and cooperative living, all within the bounds of the law. This commitment ensures not only the longevity and stability of our community but also peace of mind for all our members.

    For anyone with specific legal questions or concerns, we encourage open communication and are happy to provide more detailed information about our compliance with various regulations and standards.