Best dock building and repair pros near Coldstream, KY

Here are a few other considerations before you build, even if you're convinced you're in compliance with the law:

• Are you damaging the environment? Bodies of water are often delicate ecosystems, and building a dock can be destructive and disruptive to the wildlife.

• Are you blocking access? Lots of people like to use a lake, so you need to make sure your dock doesn't block public access to the water.

• Can you enclose the dock? Just because you can build a dock doesn't mean you can build any dock you want. Some areas don't allow enclosed docks, for example.

• Do you need to follow any specific rules or guidelines? Check with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Office for Coastal Management for any guidelines you’ll need to follow, including size and type restrictions.

You will likely need a permit to build a new dock or add to an existing one, especially if it's a permanent structure. Permit requirements vary by location, as they are typically set by local municipalities, counties, or cities rather than states. You should check with your local government or building department to determine what paperwork is required before you begin. In many areas, you may need multiple permits, including general construction permits and those designed to protect local marine life. Additionally, if you are part of a homeowner's association (HOA), they may have their own rules regarding docks, such as minimum distances between neighboring docks. It's best to check with all relevant authorities (city, county, HOA) to ensure you are in compliance. A professional dock builder can often handle the permit-pulling process for you.

Cedar wood is the best choice for a hardwood dock, as it is rot-resistant and does well in the water. Pressure-treated pine and spruce are two other solid options. Alternately, composite or waterproof plastic are materials commonly used for docks, and are frequently used in prefabricated kits.

In most areas, dock builders need some type of license. In some states, only a general construction license might be necessary, while a marine construction license is required in others. You can check online to see which is mandatory in your area, and then you can use Angi’s contractor licensing tool to make sure the company holds the proper license. Since dock construction is inherently dangerous, confirm with your builder that they are fully insured for everyone’s protection.