mumford cove is notable for being an entirely private community; unlike its neighbor groton long point, it is not a borough of groton, and therefore maintains its roads, snow removal, dredging, garbage collection, and other necessities independently, mainly through annual dues paid by residents. this status makes it illegal to walk, drive, park, or use any facilities if you are not a resident or a guest of a resident. additionally, mumford cove has strict rules in regards to new construction, notably pertaining to the size of homes, the percent of the lot used for the home, and the setbacks from both neighbors and the road. for these reasons, lots tend to be larger, homes more proportionally sized, and living more private than in groton long point, noank village, and other beach communities in the area. mason's island, in nearby stonington, connecticut, which also has a private association is the most similar locale in the southeastern region of the state.