Docks
Update - August, 2010
The governor has sent the legislation back to the DNR for additional work. We are not sure how long this process will take or what will happen. Please contact your legislator and indicate you want this legislation implemented.
Docks
Update - February, 2008
We recently learned the DNR has issued a General Permit for a platform at the end of a dock. They have added restrictions on the size of the platform and more fully defined how to calculate the size. The size limit is 170 square feet including the last dock section or 120 square feet not including the last dock section with the walkway to the platform not excedding 5 feet in width. They now also limit the total shoreline impact, called an Acquatic Impact Area, for owners with platforms, to an area 50 feet wide (or 1/2 the total shoreline whichever is less), out to a depth of 4 feet. This area includes docks, lifts, vegetation removal areas, sand blankets, and canopies.
Docks (2007)
The DNR is currently studying docks to see if the existing rules should be modified. The driving force behind this is large platforms on docks. The existing rules for docks are 8 feet maximum width and only long enough to get to navigable water. For the year 2007 the DNR issued a 'general permit' allowing platforms up to 170 square feet. They did this to allow time to study the issue and get public input. They have received much public input.
We attended two of the meetings. The first one was in Grand Rapids (fall of 2007) and was hosted by Tom Hovey of the DNR. The second was in Pequot Lakes (Dec, 2007) and was hosted by Rep. Larry Howes. This issue seems to be very polarizing. The people in favor of larger docks/platforms are very adamant. The people in favor of retaining the existing rules are just as adamant. There does not appear to be much common ground.
Those in favor of retaining the existing rules cite preservation of acquatic vegetation and fish habitat, water quality, and similar issues. Those in favor of larger platforms cite their right to use the public waters, claim the docks provide shade for fish, and similar issues.
You can view all of the public comments on the DNR web site.
Your lake association sent an email in favor of retaining the existing rules citing preservation of vegetative and fish habitat, preservation of the natural character of the shoreline, and non-fragmentation of the near shoreline vegetative plants.
If you have questions or concerns, please send an email to the address shown on our Home page or contact one of the Directors.