Permits for Shoreline & In-Water Work

Community, Policy & Reporting

A plain-language guide to help you decide when permits are needed, what information to gather, and how to plan projects so they protect the lake and move smoothly.

The Big Idea

If work affects the shoreline, lakebed, wetlands, or flowing water, assume some level of approval is required. Start early, bring a simple sketch, and design for minimal disturbance.

Common Projects & Likely Approvals

  • Shoreline stabilization: coir logs, live stakes, rock toe, or walls → approvals usually required, especially below the ordinary high water line (OHWL)
  • Docks, lifts, and swim platforms: new, expanded, or relocated structures → often need review for dimensions, setbacks, and navigation
  • Dredging or filling: removing or placing material in the water or wetlands → typically requires permits and a disposal plan
  • Aquatic plant work: hand-pulling small areas may be allowed; larger thinning, barriers, or herbicides → usually require permits and timing restrictions
  • Culverts, bridges, or outlet changes: any alteration of flow → expect hydraulic review
  • Beach creation or sand blankets: adding sand/gravel near shore → often restricted or prohibited without special approvals
  • Seawall replacement: frequently requires alternatives analysis (softer options first)

What Reviewers Want to See (Bring This)

  • Location map & site photos from water and land
  • Simple plan view sketch (measurements, OHWL line, wetlands, distances to property lines)
  • Cross-section for any bank work (existing vs. proposed grades, materials, plantings)
  • Purpose & need in one paragraph (erosion at toe, access lane, safety, etc.)
  • Best Management Practices (BMPs): silt barriers, coir logs, staged work, and stabilization plan
  • Sequence & schedule: when you'll work (preferably low water, outside spawning/nesting windows)

Design Tips That Speed Approval

  • Work above the OHWL where possible; keep in-water footprints small
  • Choose living shorelines (vegetation, logs, rock toe) before walls; match energy level to the site
  • Protect wetlands and avoid dredging; shift access paths instead of clearing large plant beds
  • Size culverts to the channel, embed or arch to allow natural bottom, and align with flow
  • Manage runoff first (rain gardens, swales) so new structures aren't undermined

Timing & Windows

Many permits restrict work during spring fish spawning and nesting seasons; plan for late summer or fall when water is lowest and soils are driest.

Inspections & Compliance

  • Expect pre-construction conditions photos and a post-construction check
  • Keep permit documents on site; build exactly what's approved, including plant lists and erosion control
  • As-builts (final sketches/photos) help close out

Do / Don't (At a Glance)

Do
  • Call before you dig; flag utilities
  • Stabilize disturbed soil the same day
  • Use coir/fiber rolls and live stakes at the toe on gentle banks
  • Re-grade steep, failing faces before adding rock
  • Stage materials away from the water; cover stockpiles
Don't
  • Dump sand or fill into the lake or wetlands
  • Install continuous vertical walls unless specifically approved
  • Clear large native plant beds to "tidy up"; cut narrow lanes instead

Working With Pros

  • Ask for site-specific rationale, materials list, plant palette, and a maintenance plan
  • Request that contractors calibrate equipment (e.g., herbicide rates) and prevent drips/spills
  • Build in a warranty/establishment period for planted work (e.g., first growing season)

Erosion & Sediment Controls (Minimums)

  • Silt fence/wattles on the contour before excavation
  • Stone pads at access points to limit tracking
  • Immediate cover: mulch, seed, or erosion blankets on bare soil; coir at the toe

After Approval—Operating Rules of Thumb

  • Work small zones at a time; keep equipment buckets out of water where possible
  • Keep wakes low near active work to protect fresh plantings and coir
  • Inspect after storms and repair any washouts or displaced materials promptly

Simple Prep Checklist (Print & Use)

  • Site photos (shoreline and water views)
  • Location map + neighbors noted
  • Plan view and cross-section with dimensions & OHWL
  • BMPs listed (silt control, coir, re-vegetation)
  • Work sequence & dates (outside sensitive windows)
  • Contacts for contractors and reviewers

Bottom Line

Start early, design light-touch solutions, and show how you'll control erosion and protect habitat. Clear sketches and living-shoreline choices make approvals smoother—and your project better for the lake.

Related Topics

Key Takeaways

  • Assume approval needed for shoreline/water work
  • Start early with clear sketches
  • Choose living shorelines first
  • Work above OHWL when possible
  • Plan for late summer/fall timing
  • Keep permit documents on site

What to Bring

  • Location map & site photos
  • Plan view sketch with OHWL
  • Cross-section drawings
  • Purpose & need statement
  • BMPs list
  • Work schedule

Design Tips

  • Work above OHWL
  • Choose living shorelines
  • Protect wetlands
  • Size culverts properly
  • Manage runoff first

Best Timing

Preferred: Late summer or fall

Avoid: Spring spawning & nesting seasons

Conditions: Low water, dry soils

Erosion Controls

  • Silt fence before excavation
  • Stone pads at access points
  • Immediate soil cover
  • Coir at the toe

Need Permit Help?

Contact your local lake association or regulatory agency for guidance on permit requirements and application processes.

Get Help