Docking Boats In Fort Lauderdale: Understanding City Property Rules

Fort Lauderdale is a boater's paradise, with its extensive waterway system and range of property options, from condominiums to single-family residences. If you're considering docking your boat on city property in Fort Lauderdale, there are a few things you should know. The city has specific zoning laws and requirements that you must adhere to. For example, the city's RS4.4 zoning law allows boats to extend up to 30% of the width of a waterway or 25 feet, whichever is less, from the recorded property line. This is different from Broward County's zoning laws, which allow for 33% extension. Additionally, docks are not permitted to project more than 5 feet into any waterway beyond the property line. When purchasing a waterfront property, it's crucial to understand the local zoning laws and how they may impact the size and type of boat you can dock.

Zoning laws: Fort Lauderdale's zoning laws restrict the size and type of boat you can dock

Zoning laws in Fort Lauderdale restrict the size and type of boat you can dock. The relevant authority for these laws is the City of Fort Lauderdale, in conjunction with Broward County.

Docks cannot project more than 5 feet into any waterway beyond the property line along the waterway or the established bulkhead line. Dock setbacks must be a minimum of 10 feet from the property plot line. Mooring pilings are allowed, but they cannot project more than 33% of the width of the waterway or 25 feet (whichever is less), as measured from the recorded property line. They must also be situated at least 10 feet from any lot line of contiguous property.

Vessels docked at private docks or by mooring pilings cannot extend into a waterway more than 33% of the width of the waterway, measured from the recorded property line. No vessel should be docked or moored adjacent to residential property so that it crosses the property line of contiguous property.

In the Fort Lauderdale Residential Real Estate District, there are further restrictions. No watercraft should be beyond the side setback lines of the property. The dock/slip cannot extend more than 10% of the waterway width or a maximum of 20 feet (whichever is less). Reflector tape, in either international orange or iridescent silver, must be affixed to all mooring or dolphins/piles and maintained. The tape must be at least 5 inches wide and within 18 inches of the top of the pile. Vessels shall not extend more than 30% of the width of the waterway or 25 feet beyond the property line (whichever is less).

Setbacks: Restrictions on how close a boat can be to neighbouring properties

Setbacks are an important consideration when docking a boat on city property in Fort Lauderdale, as they restrict how close your boat can be to your neighbour's property. These restrictions can vary for each lot, so it is essential to understand the specific zoning regulations for your property.

The City of Fort Lauderdale has specific zoning standards that apply to boats docked on city property. According to the Broward County and Ft Lauderdale Waterfront Zoning Standards, dock setbacks must be a minimum of 10 feet from the property plot line. This means that your boat cannot be within 10 feet of the neighbouring property line.

In addition to the setback requirements, there are also restrictions on the projection of docks into any waterway. Docks are not permitted to project more than 5 feet beyond the property line along the waterway or the established bulkhead line. This regulation ensures that boats docked on city property do not obstruct the waterway and interfere with navigation.

It is important to note that zoning laws can differ between the city and the county. For example, while the city of Fort Lauderdale allows a boat to extend up to 30% of the width of the waterway or 25 feet (whichever is less), Broward County allows for a slightly larger extension of 33%. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a knowledgeable real estate agent or refer to the specific zoning laws for your property to ensure compliance with the applicable setback restrictions.

Understanding the zoning regulations and setbacks is essential to avoid any issues with neighbouring properties and to ensure a pleasant and conflict-free boating experience in Fort Lauderdale.

Seawalls: Must be inspected for issues like cracks and holes

Seawalls are essential for protecting coastal properties from erosion and flooding. However, they are susceptible to damage from harsh coastal weather conditions and seawater. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to preserving the integrity of seawalls and preventing erosion.

Seawalls are designed to withstand strong storm surges and waves, but they are not impervious to damage. Over time, they can deteriorate due to various factors, including soil destabilization, wave impact, and tidal influences. Therefore, regular inspections are necessary to identify and address any issues before they spread and lead to costly repairs or even structural failure.

When inspecting a seawall, it is important to look for signs of distress such as cracks, spalling, corrosion, slumping, and voids. These issues can compromise the integrity of the seawall and lead to accelerated erosion if left unaddressed. Vegetation growth on the structure, crumbling or flaking of the concrete, and seepage through the structure are also indicators of potential problems.

To detect cracks and other defects in a concrete seawall, visual inspections, sounding techniques, and non-destructive testing methods can be employed. Visual inspections involve a thorough examination of the seawall's surface to identify cracks and other deteriorations. Sounding techniques, such as using hammers or chains, help detect hollow sounds that indicate voids within the structure. Non-destructive testing, such as ultrasonic scanning, provides detailed information on internal conditions without causing any damage to the seawall.

In addition to regular inspections, proper maintenance techniques should be implemented to extend the lifespan of seawalls. This includes unclogging weep holes to relieve pressure, removing landscaping and vegetation from the structure, and applying waterproofing materials to protect against water erosion.

By following these maintenance and inspection guidelines, property owners can help ensure the longevity and stability of their seawalls, protecting their coastal properties from the forces of nature.

Dock types: Varied materials and sizes depending on boating needs

Boat docks can be broadly categorized into two types: fixed and removable. Fixed docks are permanent structures securely anchored to the shoreline or pilings driven into the waterbed. Removable docks, on the other hand, are practical choices for areas with fluctuating water levels or deep waters, where installing fixed docks is not feasible.

Fixed Docks

Pile Docks

Pile docks are sturdy structures supported by driven pilings, typically made of wood, steel, or concrete. They provide exceptional stability and can bear significant weight. While the foundation is usually made of steel or concrete for stability, the top level can be wood, offering a more aesthetically pleasing look. Pile docks are costly and don't adjust well to water levels that fluctuate.

Crib Docks

Crib docks are constructed with wooden frames filled with rocks or gravel. They provide exceptional stability and are well-suited for shallow waters with soft bottoms. However, they can restrict water movement, potentially compromising marine habitats. Crib docks are stable but may not be allowed in some places due to their adverse effects on wildlife and water flow.

Fixed Sectional Docks

Fixed sectional docks consist of interconnected sections anchored to the shore using posts or legs. They are ideal for shallow water or uneven shorelines and offer versatility and customization.

Removable Docks

Floating Docks

Floating docks are connected and secured to the land but float on the water using airtight drums. The materials for these docks can be buoyant foam, plastic, or a combination of these with wood. Floating docks are removable, relatively inexpensive, and easy to install. They are a good choice for areas with fluctuating water levels.

Pipe Docks

Pipe docks are similar to piling docks but use aluminum poles instead of stronger steel or wood. The docking is removable, which can be beneficial in cold climates to prevent freezing. Pipe docks are less sturdy and only work in water less than 12 feet deep.

Lift-up Docks

Lift-up docks have a galvanized steel frame and a lift function to protect them from ice and cold weather damage. Custom designs can camouflage the steel's cold look.

Other Considerations

When choosing a dock type, it is essential to consider various factors, such as shoreline characteristics, water depth, bottom conditions, surface conditions, intended use, and local regulations. Some docks may require multiple permits, and certain types may be prohibited to protect wildlife and the shoreline.

Utilities: Ensure utilities are installed to code, with safety devices

To dock a boat on city property in Fort Lauderdale, you must ensure that all utilities are installed according to the local code and include necessary safety devices. This includes adhering to the Broward County and Fort Lauderdale Waterfront Zoning Standards and obtaining the necessary permits. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for ensuring your utilities are up to code:

• Mooring Structures: According to the Unified Land Development Code, mooring structures include docks, slips, seawalls, boat davits, hoists, boat lifts, and mooring piles. These structures must be installed securely and permanently attached to the land or seawall. Specific guidelines exist for the number and placement of mooring devices, with limitations on the lot width and potential interference with neighbouring properties' views and waterway usage.
• Reflector Tape: As per the code, reflector tape is required on mooring or dolphin piles. It should be at least 5 inches wide and within 18 inches of the top of the pile. The tape must be formulated for marine use and be either international orange or iridescent silver in colour.
• Seawall Requirements: Seawalls must meet specific elevation requirements based on the property's FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map and base flood elevation. They should be designed and constructed in a substantially impermeable manner to prevent tidal waters from flowing through while allowing for hydrostatic pressure release. The maximum height of related structures attached to a seawall should not exceed its elevation.
• Dock Requirements: Fixed docks can be constructed at an elevation up to 10 inches above the attached seawall's elevation but must not exceed the maximum elevation specified in the code. Floating docks are permitted but must be permanently attached to a marginal dock, finger pier, mooring pilings, or seawall.
• Seawall Maintenance: Property owners are responsible for maintaining their seawalls in good repair. If a seawall is found to be in disrepair, allowing upland erosion, or enabling the unimpeded flow of tidal waters, the owner must take prompt action to address the issue.
• Permits and Inspections: Ensure that you obtain all necessary permits for your mooring structures and utilities. The City of Fort Lauderdale requires permits for various installations and modifications, including docks and seawalls. Regular inspections may also be conducted to ensure compliance with safety standards.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the specific codes and regulations in Fort Lauderdale, you can ensure that your utilities and safety devices are installed correctly when docking a boat on city property.

Frequently asked questions