diff --git a/LOCKS b/LOCKS
new file mode 100644
index 000000000000..4f797d2c8d68
--- /dev/null
+++ b/LOCKS
@@ -0,0 +1,8 @@
+$FreeBSD$
+
+This file documents formal review/approval requirements that have been
+approved by core.
+
+subsystem       login   expires  notes
+--------------------------------------
+
diff --git a/MAINTAINERS b/MAINTAINERS
index c1bd2124d30f..d93cc214899a 100644
--- a/MAINTAINERS
+++ b/MAINTAINERS
@@ -1,5 +1,23 @@
 $FreeBSD$
 
+Please note that the content of this file is strictly advisory.
+No locks listed here are valid.  The only strict review requirements
+are granted by core.  These are documented in src/LOCKS and enforced
+by CVSROOT/approvers.
+
+The source tree is a community effort.  However, some folks go to the
+trouble of looking after particular areas of the tree.  In return for
+their active caretaking of the code it is polite to coordinate changes
+with them.  This is a list of people who have expressed an interest in
+part of the code or listed their active caretaking role so that other
+committers can easily find somebody who is familiar with it.  The notes
+should specify if there is a 3rd party source tree involved or other
+things that should be kept in mind.
+
+However, this is not a 'big stick', it is an offer to help and a source
+of guidance.  It does not override the communal nature of the tree.
+It is not a registry of 'turf' or private property.
+
 subsystem	login	notes
 -----------------------------
 mergemaster	dougb	Prefers to pre-approve commits