Dock Permitting and Regulations in Sarasota

Dock construction in Sarasota requires both state and local permits to safeguard the region’s waterways and marine ecosystems. This page outlines the permitting process, including the necessary state and county regulations, and highlights common compliance challenges. By following the proper procedures, you ensure your waterfront project meets legal standards, protecting the environment while enhancing your property. Whether you’re building a new dock or renovating an existing structure, understanding these requirements is essential for avoiding fines, delays, or environmental harm.

Contact Us Today

Navigating Dock Permitting in Sarasota, FL:

Regulations and Resources

Building a dock in Sarasota, Florida, requires navigating stringent local, state, and federal regulations to protect waterways, wildlife, and property rights. Below is a concise guide to the who, what, where, and why of dock permitting, with essential resources to streamline your project.

Key Resources for Dock Permitting

Sarasota County Online Permitting Portal: Submit Minor Work Permit applications.
City of Sarasota Permitting Portal: For properties within city limits.
Florida DEP Dock Permitting Guide: Details state exemptions and ERP requirements.
Florida Statutes 403.813: Legal text for state permit exemptions.
Sarasota County Code, Article XX: County-specific dock regulations.
City of Sarasota Zoning Code: Rules for waterfront docks.
Duncan Seawall Guide: Practical tips from local experts.
EZ-Dock Permitting Overview: Focus on floating docks.
USACE Permits: For federal oversight.

Who Oversees Dock Permitting?

Local: Sarasota County (Water and Navigation Control Authority, Environmental Protection Division) for unincorporated areas; City of Sarasota (Building & Zoning) for city limits.
State: Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Southwest District for Environmental Resource Permits (ERP).
Federal: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for navigable waters or wetland impacts.
Other: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for manatee zones; HOAs for private restrictions.

What Are the Permitting Requirements?

Determine Jurisdiction: Confirm County or City based on property location.
Check State Exemptions: Per Florida Statute 403.813(1)(b), no DEP permit needed if:
- Dock ≤1,000 sq ft (≤500 sq ft in Outstanding Florida Waters).
- Built on pilings/floating, with minimal dredging.
- Private, non-commercial use; no navigation obstruction.
Local Permits:
- County: Minor Work Permit via Accela portal; include survey, site plans, and ownership proof. Max 50% shoreline occupancy, 10 ft setbacks.
- City: Building permit; terminal platforms ≤250 sq ft, 25 ft setbacks. DEP exemption letter required.
State/Federal: ERP for non-exempt docks; USACE if dredging/filling.
Compliance: Manatee zones, seagrass avoidance, neighbor consents if near property lines.

Timeline: 3-6 months. Costs: $100-$1,000+ (permits, surveys, consultants).

Where Can Docks Be Built?

Allowed: Riparian waterfront properties (Sarasota Bay, Intracoastal Waterway, Gulf).
Restricted: Manatee sanctuaries, aquatic preserves, seagrass beds, public lands.
Setbacks: County: 10 ft from property lines, centered. City: 25 ft from extended lines.

Why Are Regulations Strict?

Environmental Protection: Safeguard seagrass, mangroves, manatees, and water quality.
Navigation Safety: Prevent hazards and ensure fair waterway access.
Property Rights: Balance riparian rights with neighbor impacts.
Climate Resilience: Mitigate erosion and storm risks.

Key Contacts:

Agency	Phone	Email	Address
Sarasota County Building/Permitting	941-861-5000	building@scgov.net	1001 Sarasota Center Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240
City of Sarasota Building & Permitting	941-263-6494	CityPermits@sarasotafl.gov	1565 1st Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
Florida DEP Southwest District	813-470-5700	Online Form	13051 N Telecom Pkwy, Temple Terrace, FL 33637
USACE Jacksonville District	904-232-1665	cesaj-regulatory@usace.army.mil	701 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Duncan Seawall (Consultant)	941-351-1553	Online Form	1716 Independence Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34234

Streamline Your Dock Project:

Engage a marine contractor experienced in Sarasota’s regulations to expedite permitting. Begin with a property survey and contact local authorities to confirm jurisdiction. Compliance ensures a legal, durable dock that enhances property value while protecting Sarasota’s waterways.

State Permitting

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) oversees dock permits, detailed in Dock Permitting Guidance. Key points:

Exemptions

Small docks (under 500 sq ft, or 1,000 sq ft in less sensitive areas) may be exempt.

Permits

Larger docks require DEP approval, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Applications

Submit plans showing dock size, location, and environmental protections.

Sarasota County Permits

Sarasota County’s Water and Navigation Control Authority (WNCA) regulates docks under Chapter 54, Article XX:

Minor Work Permits

For new docks, modifications, or maintenance dredging, ensuring navigation and resource protection.

Major Work Permits

For larger projects, requiring detailed environmental reviews.

Apply via Sarasota County Environmental Permitting.

Common Compliance Issues

Seagrass Damage

Docks must maintain 1-foot clearance above seagrasses, reducible to zero in dredged areas.

Mangrove Protections

Avoid trimming or damaging mangroves, per DEP rules.

Navigation

Docks must not obstruct waterways or neighbor access.

Non-compliance can lead to fines or removal orders. See Waterway and Environmental Protections (#page-9) for details.

Practical Tips

Check Regulations

Review DEP and county rules before designing.

Hire Experts

Use licensed contractors familiar with waterfront permits.

Submit Complete Plans

Include environmental surveys to speed approvals.

Monitor Approvals

Track permit status at Sarasota County.

TOP 10 SARASOTA COUNTY DOCK & DAVIT COMPANIES

1. Custom Dock & Davit
Address: 5710 Pinkney Ave, Sarasota, FL 34233
Phone: (941) 923-1522
Website: customdockdavit.com
Social: Facebook

2. Duncan Seawall, Dock & Boat Lift
Address: 116 Sea Anchor Dr, Osprey, FL 34229
Phone: (941) 258-2528
Website: duncanseawall.com
Social: Facebook | Instagram

3. Wood Dock & Seawall
Phone: (941) 795-7500
Website: wooddockandseawall.com
Social: Facebook

4. Florida Shoreline & Foundation
Phone: (941) 243-4800
Website: shorelineandfoundation.com
Social: Facebook

5. Storm Marine
Phone: (941) 315-9999
Website: storm-marine.com
Social: Instagram

6. Greene Marine Construction
Phone: (941) 705-5555
Website: greenemarineconstruction.com
Social: Facebook

7. Bennett Marine Construction
Address: 1925 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, FL 34293
Phone: (941) 697-3882
Website: bennettmarineconstruction.com

8. Abbotts’ Construction Services
Phone: (941) 484-6771
Website: abbottsconstruction.com
Social: Facebook

9. Mariner Dock & Seawall
Phone: (941) 243-8080
Website: marinerdockandseawall.com
Social: Instagram

10. The Deck Docktors Inc.
Phone: (941) 705-0800
Website: deckdocktors.com
Social: Facebook

FAQs

Do small docks need permits?

Some are exempt, per DEP guidelines.

What is a Minor Work Permit?

Covers small dock projects, per county code.

How do I avoid fines?

Follow seagrass and mangrove rules.