Common questions and Answers on Boat Lifts and Docks
We encourage property owners to reach out to the local DNR to get additional information and clarification. The phone number is: 563-927-3276 and ask for Sue.
1. Question: Do I have to remove docks and lifts over winter?
Answer: Chapter 16:18 exempts artificial lakes from winter removal of docks and hoists unless they are subject to damage by ice movement. Docks left in over winter are required to have reflective material visible from all directions to operators of snowmobiles, other motorized machines or wind-propelled vessels lawfully operated on the frozen surface of the water body. Additional information can be found at: http://search.legis.state.ia.us/NXT/gateway.dll/ar/iac/5710___natural%20resource%20commission%20__5b571__5d/0160___chapter%2016%20docks%20and%20other%20structures%20on%20public__2e/_c_5710_0160.xml?f=templates$fn=default.htm
2. Question: In the past, hard covers were grandfathered in. Will this remain the same?
Answer: Hard covers were never grandfathered in, but a previous Enforcement Bureau Chief had a hand-shake agreement that they would not enforce the rule banning hard covers during the initial permitting process back in 2007. The handshake agreement contained specific criteria but this handshake agreement is no longer acceptable. Current enforcement staff have decided Lake Delhi needs to come into compliance with state law which has banned the use of hard roofs for approximately 20 years in the State of Iowa.
3. Question: What are dock requirements?
Answer: Interpretation of the dock rules has evolved over the last 5 years both within the DNR and as a result of contested court cases. Major changes include the ruling that Class 1 docks are only for properties with a residential home on the property (no condos, apartments or empty lots). If the abstract for a seasonal or permanent residence built on leased land contains specific wording for shoreline easement, the owner of the residence may be allowed to have a Class 1 permit; however, the abstracts will require case-by-case review. When specific footage is not included in the abstract on leased land, all docks off the property will require Class 3 permits (or Class 4 where applicable). Additionally, dock arrangement will be affected in some areas to (1) guarantee access to the shoreline for angling and (2) guarantee access to the shoreline for boaters in distress. Shorelines cannot be blocked off by large dock/hoist configurations.
4. Question: Where do I go for permits for docks and shoreline work?
Answer: Permits can be printed off online at:
http://www.iowadnr.gov/Recreation/Boating/DockPermits.aspx. You can also find a link to read Chapter 16 (the current dock rules) at this location.
5. Question: What is the renewal process for permits?
Answer: Class 3 & 4 permits (new applications, renewals and/or transfers) must be handled on paper by printing off the application at the address above. Class 1 permits can be handled either on paper or online at https://www.iowadnr.gov/boatdocks/index.php. Docks need to have permits when the lake comes back. If they don’t have water under them until sometime in 2014, for example, residents can wait until early spring 2014 before applying.
6. Question: Do I need to anchor my Docks and Lifts?
Answer: Chapter 16.3: All river docks must be securely anchored to prevent them from becoming floating hazards during times of high river flows. The riparian owner is responsible for dock retrieval and removal when necessary to prevent or remove a navigation hazard.
7. Question: What are the websites I can find more information?
Answer: Residents may go online and read Chapter 16 at: http://search.legis.state.ia.us/NXT/gateway.dll/ar/iac/5710___natural%20resource%20commission%20__5b571__5d/0160___chapter%2016%20docks%20and%20other%20structures%20on%20public__2e/_c_5710_0160.xml?f=templates$fn=default.htm or follow the link off the site https://www.iowadnr.gov/boatdocks/index.php.
The Information provided is not deemed to be all inclusive or represent the Lake Taxing District opinions. Please confirm with the Iowa DNR for rules and regulations