New Docks and Piers on Lake Martin
A new dock starts with your shoreline, the water depth and Alabama Power's rules. Here's what gets settled first, so the build goes smoothly.
Around Kowaliga, Dadeville and nearby
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Fixed, floating or both
Many Lake Martin docks pair a fixed pier or gangway from the bank with a floating section at the end. The floating part rides up and down with the lake, so the boat slip still has water when the level drops in the fall.
Where the bank is steep and the water gets deep close in, a short fixed walkway may be enough. On a shallow cove, the dock may need to reach farther out to find depth at winter pool.
Size and length
Alabama Power caps the total area of residential structures, such as a floating dock, boathouse or wet slip, at 1,510 square feet. A floating dock attached to a pier or gangway can be no longer than 62 feet in total.
Docks are normally set at least 15 feet from an extension of your property line into the lake, though Alabama Power can set a different distance. Ask the builder to mark both lines on the sketch.
Flotation
Floats must be encased, or closed-cell extruded polystyrene made for marine use, so they won't soak up water or sink if punctured. Ask what the floats are made of and how they are fastened to the frame.
Decking and frame
Wood, composite and aluminum are all used on lake docks. Wood is the lower upfront cost and needs regular sealing. Composite and aluminum need less upkeep and cost more to start. Ask for a price on more than one option.
On a dock, the hardware, cables and hinges that join the floats, gangway and pier take the most movement. Ask how they are sized for a 7-foot change in water level.
Questions to ask
- Fixed, floating or a mix, and why for this spot?
- How deep is the water at the slip at winter pool?
- Does the design fit the 1,510 square foot and 62 foot limits?
- What are the floats made of?
- Who puts together the permit request and sketch? See permits.
New dock questions
Can I add a swim platform or ladder?
Usually yes, inside the total size limit. The builder shows it on the permit sketch.
Can I add a roof later?
Possibly. A roof changes the structure, needs its own permit approval and has to stay open on the sides. See boathouses.
How long does it take?
It depends on the permit, the season and the builder's schedule. You'll get a timeline when the job is priced.
Ready when you are
Call now, or send the form. A local pro calls you back, usually the same business day.
Calls are recorded for quality assurance.