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FREQUENTLY ASKED 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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