Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ's - Dock & Bulkhead Permitting in Northeast Florida

Q:  What agency is responsible for Dock and Bulkhead permitting?

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), Northeast District is responsible for Dock and Bulkhead permitting in Northeast Florida

Q:  Where are their offices located and what is their phone number?

7825 Baymeadows Way, Suite B200, Jacksonville, Florida 32256
Phone: 904-807-3300 / Fax: 904-448-4366

Q:  Is a permit required to build a bulkhead on a lake?

According to the FDEP, building a bulkhead on a pond or lake is not a regulated activity.  They have advised that you don't even need to apply for a permit exemption, but that if you do want it in writing you could fill out exemption application (see below) and they would send confirmation that building a bulkhead on your property is exempt.

Q:  I just want to repair my dock.  Is a permit required?

No permit is required to rebuild or replace an existing functional private dock / bulkhead with no change to the existing "footprint".

See their Fact Sheet for additional information on Single Family Dock Construction ).

However, that doesn't mean there isn't paperwork involved.  The FDEP's Environmental Resource Progam (ERP) has a "short form" for you to request an "Exemption Verification".  This application and additional information can be found on their website.

Q:  What do they want to know?

• That the existing dock / bulkhead is still functional
• That there will be no change to the existing "footprint"
• That the bulkhead won't extend beyond one foot (1') forward of it's original location
• A drawing or plan view as seen from the top.  Visit their Requirements for Bulkhead Drawings for more information.

Q:  Do they charge a fee for this "Exemption Verification"?

No, there is No Fee.

Q:  Will you do the paperwork for me?

No, the homeowner is responsible for verifying what may or may not be required and for completing any paperwork that may be required.

Q:  Do you need to see my exemption?

No.

Q:  I want to build a new dock (or bulkhead), do I need a permit?

Maybe / Maybe-Not
New single-family private docks that are 1,000sf or less in total area normally don't require a permit.  Plese refer to their fact sheet for more information.

The FDEP has an online Self-Certification Process for Single-Family Docks.  Individual single-family homes with PRIVATE docks can use this online certification to immediately determine if a PRIVATE single family dock can be constructed without further notice or review by the FDEP. A written confirmation of qualification is provided so that no further contact with FDEP is necessary.   YOU are responsible for ensuring that you meet all the limitations and should be advised that the FDEP conducts inspections of selected docks to ensure compliance.

If you don't qualify for the exemption, here is the link for their Single Family Dock Construction Application Package

Q:  How can I found out the status of my FDEP application?

Duval County FDEP Permits UNDER REVIEW
Baker County FDEP Permits UNDER REVIEW
Clay County FDEP Permits UNDER REVIEW
St, John's County FDEP Permits UNDER REVIEW

We hope that you will contact us for your next bulkhead or dock project, you will be glad you did.

Disclaimer of Liability:

With respect to documents and information available on this page, we make no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the validity of the information found here.  We assume no liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information.

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