Every state has different requirements when it comes to building a dock. Some have specific policies that need to be followed, or else the homeowner is fined. Depending on where you live, your local ordinances or homeowner association might be responsible for granting the permission.
For example, you live in a state where a permit is not required to build a dock. Neither the town nor the city cares about what is being built and where. However, if your house comes under HOA, you will likely have to ask for their permission before planning any construction project.
Instead of hiring a professional and building the dock without worrying about the consequences, doing your research is better. It’s possible that when the HOA finds out that you have built a dock without a permit, you might be forced to tear it down.
First, check the regulations in your state and then familiarize yourself with the HOA rules. The HOA must approve any outdoor project being built on your land. You must get the state’s permission if the project encroaches on public property. Some states require a single permit, while others require multiple or none.
Dock Permit Requirements
Your property and the surrounding area will tell you whether a dock permit is needed. There are a few standard requirements you need to meet, which include:
- The dock’s size
- Dock’s usage (The dock cannot be used for business purposes without getting the necessary permit)
- Water access
- Length limitations
There are a few other local considerations, which include your lake’s water type and level and the bed on which the dock will be built. The same rules might not apply if you are using a floating dock, which can be removed from the water anytime.
You will also need to buy dock insurance to protect your investment and any liability issues that might arise.
Building a Dock
Here’s the standard procedure that needs to be followed to build a dock:
Site Plan Review
Submit the site plan for review. This should include floodplain, zoning requirements, dredging, sedimentation/erosion controls, critical environmental protection, environmental concerns, wave abatement, restoration, grading, tree protection, and lake recreation use.
Site Plan Approval
Next, you need to find out what are the regulatory procedures and requirements in your area. This helps protect the welfare, safety, and health of your community.
Building Permits
After your site plan is approved, you must apply for any necessary demolition, relocation, and electric permits. You will have to get a separate building permit for any repairs you might make in the future or if you wish to expand the dock.
So, now you know how to go about building your dock. The process is not that difficult but can take a little time if the site you are building your dock on public property.
Hire EZ Dock Texas professionals to build your boat dock. They have years of experience in building such platforms and offer you a range of choices, such as floating docks, PWC docks, do-it-yourself docks, etc. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
