Boat Dock Policies In Highland County, Florida: What's Allowed?

If you're looking to dock your boat in Highland County, Florida, there are a few things you should know. The county offers a variety of boat ramp facilities with docks or fishing docks, which are subject to closures for maintenance, safety, or other reasons. When it comes to private docks, Florida has specific regulations and permitting requirements that you must follow. These rules vary depending on whether you're on the coast or inland lakes and rivers, with coastal areas having more restrictions and overlapping jurisdictions.

Dock safety standards

To ensure the safety of those who will be using the docks in Highland County, Florida, the following safety standards must be met:

Safety Standards for Residential Docks on the Highland Lakes

Residential docks on lakes Buchanan, Inks, LBJ, Marble Falls, and Travis must adhere to the safety standards outlined in the "Safety Standards for Residential Docks on the Highland Lakes." These standards specify the requirements for dock flotation, lighting, access, anchoring, and maximum distances from the shore. For example, the maximum distance that a dock may extend from the shoreline varies for each lake: Lake Buchanan allows for 150 feet, Lake Marble Falls for 35 feet, and Lake Travis for 100 feet.

Dock Stability and Security

To ensure the safety of those using the docks, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain the structural integrity of the docks. All structural members should be securely attached to prevent any immediate safety or navigation hazards. The dock should be floating upright, and any decks or floors should not be submerged.

Environmental Impact

When applying for a dock permit, it is crucial to consider the environmental impact of the dock project. This includes assessing the potential effects on submerged lands, marine life, coastal erosion, and water quality. Proactive measures should be incorporated into the project plans to mitigate any negative impacts.

Permits and Regulations

Before constructing or repairing a dock, it is essential to obtain the necessary permits and comply with local regulations. In Florida, floating docks are subject to the same permitting requirements as traditional fixed docks. The Department of Environmental Protection is the governing body responsible for approving these permits. Additionally, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has jurisdiction over construction on marine land, and regulations may vary by town or city. It is important to research local ordinances and requirements before initiating any dock construction or repair work.

Dock permits

The process of obtaining a dock permit in Florida can be tricky, as government regulations and permit requirements can be complex. The rules and regulations that preserve the scenic view of the state's coastlines also create a few hoops to jump through when repairing or building docks.

Florida recognises two primary categories of dock permits: Individual Permits and Minimal Impact Permits. If your dock project exceeds 1,000 square feet, is located in protected waters, or will be used for commercial purposes, you will need an Individual Permit. Individual Permits undergo a detailed review to confirm compliance with environmental regulations and safeguard natural resources. The application process should be general or streamlined, and activities should be limited in duration.

If your dock project meets certain criteria, you may be exempt from needing a dock permit altogether. To be exempt, your project must fulfil the following criteria:

• The dock size does not exceed 1,000 square feet.
• The dock is located outside of protected waters.
• The dock will be used for non-commercial purposes.

It's important to note that dock repair and maintenance may not always require a new permit. Routine maintenance, including replacing existing components with similar materials, can often be conducted without additional permitting. However, if the repair scope exceeds these limits, you will need to acquire the appropriate permits.

Floating docks are subject to the same permitting requirements as traditional fixed docks. Before floating any dock plans, ensure you have permission from the Department of Environmental Protection.

To successfully obtain a dock permit, it is essential to prepare and understand the process. Here are some key steps to follow:

• Know your Riparian Rights: As a waterfront property owner, Riparian Rights allow you to build a dock right by the water next to your property. Understanding these rights can make the permit process easier, especially if you have complex dock design plans.
• Research your local ordinances: Construction on marine land falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, but rules and regulations vary by town or city. Contact your local Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or city planning department to review your local regulations before taking action.
• Start the paperwork and application: Applying for a dock permit can be complex, and incomplete applications can delay approvals. Find out what paperwork you need, including any environmental site assessments or impact studies, and ensure your application is complete before submitting.
• Investigate and reduce environmental impact: Your permit application must cover the environmental impacts of the dock project, including impacts on submerged lands, marine life, coastal erosion, and water quality. Proactively assess these impacts and incorporate suitable mitigation measures into your project plans.
• Submit your application: You can find your dock permit application, seek help from officials, and submit your paperwork at The Florida Department of Environmental Protection. For a smoother and faster process, ask your local officials for guidance with your application and environmental impact assessment.

Dock repairs

Boat docks and marinas on the Highland Lakes must be built and maintained according to the Safety Standards for Residential Docks on the Highland Lakes and the Highland Lakes Marina Ordinance. While the rules and regulations for dock repairs can be complex, some general guidelines can be provided for repairs in Highland County, Florida.

Firstly, it is important to understand the scope of the repairs. Routine maintenance and replacement of existing components with similar materials typically do not require additional permitting. However, if the repairs are more extensive, additional permits may be required.

In Highland County, permits are required for marinas on the Highland Lakes. The specific permitting authority may vary depending on the location of the dock within Highland County. The City of Austin, for example, is responsible for managing Lake Austin dock regulations. It is important to contact the appropriate local authority to understand the specific permitting requirements for your repair project.

Additionally, property owners must own or have permission to use the submerged land under a fixed dock. For floating docks, permission is required to use the underwater property for anchors. This is an important consideration when planning dock repairs, especially if the scope of work includes modifications to the dock structure.

To ensure compliance, it is recommended to research local ordinances and contact the local Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or city planning department to review specific regulations and permitting requirements. Understanding your riparian rights as a waterfront property owner is also crucial in navigating the permitting process for dock repairs.

By following these guidelines and working closely with local authorities, you can ensure that your dock repairs in Highland County, Florida, comply with the relevant regulations and standards.

Dock placement

Firstly, it is important to determine whether your dock will be located on a lake or coastal saltwater. Inland lakes and rivers generally have fewer restrictions, whereas coastal salt waters often have further regulations in place.

For residential docks in Highland County, there are exemptions from permits if certain criteria are met. These include a dock size of 1,000 square feet or less, placement outside of protected waters, and use for non-commercial purposes only. If your dock meets these standards, you may not need a permit.

However, if your dock is located on lakes Buchanan, Inks, LBJ, Marble Falls, or Travis, there are specific requirements outlined by the LCRA (Lower Colorado River Authority). For these lakes, docks must adhere to the Safety Standards for Residential Docks on the Highland Lakes, which dictate standards for dock flotation, lighting, access, anchoring, and maximum distances from the shore. For example, the maximum distance that a dock may extend from the shoreline for Lake Buchanan is 150 feet, whereas for Lake Marble Falls, it is 35 feet.

It is also important to note that docks cannot be placed in certain areas, such as very shallow areas, narrow coves, rocky terrain, or hazardous locations. Additionally, you must own or have permission to use the submerged land under a fixed dock and for anchors if it is a floating dock.

If your dock does not meet the exemption criteria, you will need to obtain an individual permit. This involves a detailed review process to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and the protection of natural resources. The process can be lengthy and complicated, so it is recommended to consult a marine contractor familiar with the local permit procedures.

Before submitting your permit application, ensure you have a thorough understanding of the local regulations and have completed all the necessary paperwork. This may include environmental site assessments, impact studies, and an assessment of the environmental impacts of your dock project, such as on submerged lands, marine life, coastal erosion, and water quality.

By carefully navigating the permitting process and adhering to the specific regulations in Highland County, Florida, you can successfully obtain permission for your dock placement while also preserving the natural environment.

Dock construction

Building a dock in Highland County, Florida, requires careful planning and adherence to various regulations. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:

• Understand the Local Regulations: Before starting any construction, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the local ordinances and regulations specific to Highland County. Contact the local Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or city planning office to review these regulations and ensure compliance.
• Determine the Need for a Permit: In Florida, dock construction may require a permit, especially if it falls outside the criteria for exemption. Exemptions typically apply to residential docks that are 1,000 square feet or smaller, located outside protected waters, and intended for non-commercial use. If your project exceeds these standards, you will likely need an individual permit.
• Obtain the Necessary Permits: If a permit is required for your dock construction, you will need to navigate the permitting process. This typically involves preparing and submitting a permit application to the appropriate authorities. In Florida, you can find guidance and submit your application to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The process may include environmental impact assessments, so ensure you understand the potential impacts on submerged lands, marine life, coastal erosion, and water quality.
• Consider Environmental Sensitivity: Florida, especially its coastal areas, is known for its environmentally sensitive waters. When constructing a dock in Highland County, it is essential to respect and adhere to the regulations aimed at protecting these fragile ecosystems. This includes understanding the specific parameters and restrictions for your construction site.
• Comply with Safety Standards: All boat docks in Highland County must adhere to strict safety standards. These standards cover various aspects, including dock flotation, lighting, access, anchoring, and maximum distances from the shoreline. Ensure that your dock design and construction comply with these safety requirements to avoid violations and ensure the safety of those using the dock.
• Understand Property Rights: When building a dock, it is crucial to respect the property rights of others. Ensure that your dock does not encroach on your neighbour's property. Additionally, if you are building on submerged land, you must own or have permission to use that land, as well as any underwater property required for anchoring a floating dock.
• Consider Marina or Condo Approvals: If you are leasing a slip in a marina or waterside condo property, you may need to obtain approval from the organization before constructing a dock. While most marinas do not prohibit the use of boat lifts, some may impose conditions or restrictions on the type of lift used or how it is attached.
• Plan for Maintenance and Repairs: Docks are subject to deterioration over time due to their exposure to the elements. Routine maintenance and repairs, such as replacing existing components with similar materials, typically do not require additional permitting. However, if the scope of the repairs exceeds routine maintenance, acquiring the appropriate permits may be necessary.

By carefully following these guidelines and staying informed about the specific regulations in Highland County, you can ensure that your dock construction project complies with all legal requirements and considers the environmental and safety aspects of building in a waterfront location.

Frequently asked questions