Grand Lake Dock Permits

Who needs a permit

Any dock, boat slip, boat lift, walkway, or bank stabilization on GRDA shoreline requires a permit — even if a previous owner built it. Permits are tied to the land parcel, not the structure, and transfer with the property.

The application, step by step

1. Confirm your property adjoins GRDA shoreline (most Grand Lake waterfront does).
2. Get a current property survey showing your shoreline frontage.
3. Have dock plans drawn — dimensions, location, materials, electrical.
4. Submit the GRDA application with survey, plans, and fees.
5. GRDA reviews for setbacks, navigability, and shoreline impact.
6. Once approved, build to plan and schedule the GRDA inspection.

Common dock types

• Floating docks — most common on Grand Lake, ride the water level
• Stationary docks — pilings into the lakebed, rare on the main lake
• Boat lifts & PWC lifts — allowed with adequate slip clearance
• Covered slips — covers, roofs, and lighting are permitted with plan approval

Setbacks & the neighbors

GRDA enforces side-yard setbacks so docks don't crowd neighboring shorelines. As a rule of thumb, keep the dock centered on your frontage and inside your extended property lines. If a cove is tight, GRDA may reduce the maximum dock length.

Ongoing maintenance

• Inspect flotation billets every spring — waterlogged foam is a common cause of sinking docks
• Watch for wasp and spider nests in slip corners
• Check electrical GFCIs monthly — required for compliance and safety
• Pull PWC lifts and re-grease cables at the end of season