ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS

1) Where should I locate the dock?

Most county and city governments have a 10' side setback requirement from either property line. The City of Winter Park allows a 5' set back with a consent letter signed by the neighbors on either side. On outstanding waters, the State of Florida requires a 25' setback, however, they will consider a 10' setback if a letter of consent from both neighbors is received.

2) How far out do I need to go?

You can build out as far as you need to obtain adequate water depth, which is defined as 4 to 5 feet at normal water conditions, provided you are not a navigational hazard; you are allowed to project 10% past both neighbors.

3) How large, in square feet, can I build my dock and boathouse?

Most municipalities in Orange and Seminole Counties allow you to build up to 1000 square feet. Winter Park and Maitland only allow 600 square feet. With state and county permits you can build up to 2000 square feet, in most municipalities.

4) How can I control an erosion problem?

Retaining walls / seawalls are the most common application to control erosion; see retaining walls for different materials and possibilities.

5) How much of my erosion can I restore?

The state will not allow you to recover the eroded land, however, you can fill scalloping (the uneven shoreline that has eroded) at mean high water and above. To go past mean high water, you must have a good reason in order to get permits.

6) Where should I locate a retaining wall?

The ideal location for a retaining wall is at the mean high water landward for easy county permitting. The state owns the area below the mean high water; the homeowner owns everything above it.

7) What is the lifespan of a typical dock?

With no maintenance, a dock will last about 15 to 20 years. With routine maintenance, the life will extend about five to ten years (see routine maintenance).

8) What is a general maintenance routine?

If you pressure wash your house annually, pressure wash your dock with a high quality deckwash. If you paint your house every five years, seal your dock every five years. This can add 10 years to most docks.

9) What kind of roofing do we use?

Most roofing is done to match the house shingle, tile, or galvanized steel.

10) How long does it take to build typical docks?

The typical duration of a project from the time of contract signing (and received necessary paperwork) until most permitting is completed usually takes a week. Most projects take 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the square footage of the dock or the length of the retaining wall.

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Copyright © 1997 by Specialty Marine Contractors. All rights reserved.
Revised: 07 Dec 2008 10:55:41 -0600.