Dock Permitting Services

Comprehensive Dock Permitting Solutions

Building a dock in Florida requires navigating a complex web of federal, state, and local regulations designed to protect our precious marine ecosystems. Our experienced permitting specialists understand the intricacies of these requirements and work diligently to secure all necessary approvals for your waterfront project. From small residential piers to large commercial marinas, we handle every aspect of the permitting process.

Permits We Handle

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 10 and Section 404 permits
• Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Environmental Resource Permits
• FDEP Sovereign Submerged Lands Authorization
• Local government building and zoning permits
• Manatee Protection Plan compliance
• National Marine Fisheries Service consultations
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service coordination
• Water Management District permits where applicable

Our Proven Permitting Process

We've refined our dock permitting process to minimize delays and maximize approval success rates:

• Initial Consultation: Site assessment and feasibility analysis
• Design Coordination: Work with your contractor to ensure permit-compliant designs
• Environmental Surveys: Seagrass assessments, protected species evaluations
• Application Preparation: Complete permit packages with all required documentation
• Agency Coordination: Direct communication with regulatory staff
• Public Notice Management: Handle all required notifications and responses
• Permit Modifications: Address agency comments and requests efficiently
• Final Approval: Secure permits and provide compliance guidance

Types of Marine Structures We Permit

• Residential boat docks and piers
• Commercial marinas and harbors
• Boat lifts and davits
• Floating docks and platforms
• Seawalls and riprap revetments
• Boat ramps and launching facilities
• Mooring fields and anchorages
• Waterfront boardwalks and observation decks

Why Professional Dock Permitting Matters

Attempting to navigate dock permitting without professional assistance often leads to costly delays, permit denials, or worse – construction without proper permits. Unpermitted structures face removal orders, daily fines that can exceed $10,000, and legal action. Additionally, unpermitted docks can complicate property sales, affect insurance coverage, and create liability issues.

Our expertise ensures your project meets all environmental protection requirements while maximizing your waterfront use rights. We understand the balance between development and conservation, often identifying design modifications that satisfy both regulatory requirements and your project goals.

Special Considerations We Address

• Manatee protection zones and seasonal restrictions
• Seagrass bed avoidance and mitigation
• Navigation channel requirements
• Riparian rights and setback requirements
• Water depth and tidal considerations
• Hurricane resistance standards
• ADA accessibility requirements
• Lighting restrictions for sea turtle protection