New boat docks
A Lake Martin dock has to fit inside Alabama Power's limits and still be usable when the lake drops for winter. Here's how a new one comes together.
Before anyone talks about decking or roof style, a builder needs to know three things about your lot: how much shoreline you have, how wide the water is in front of it, and how deep it gets at the spot where the boat will sit once the lake is down for winter. Those answers decide the size, the shape and whether the dock should float.
What limits apply to a residential dock?
| Item | Lake Martin residential guideline |
|---|---|
| Total structure area | 1,510 sq ft |
| Total length | 62 ft, including pier or gangway on floating docks |
| Walkways | 6 ft wide or less don't count toward area |
| Side setback | 15 ft from the extended property line, or as set |
| Narrow sloughs | No more than 1/3 of the way across at full pool |
These are ordinary maximums. Alabama Power notes they may not be allowed in every situation, that there's no right to a 15-foot setback, and that some lots in narrow or restricted sloughs may not qualify.
Fixed or floating?
With the lake dropping toward 484 feet each fall from a 491-foot full pool, a fixed dock in shallow water can end up high and dry for the winter. Floating docks ride the level up and down, and the guidelines count a floating dock's gangway within its 62-foot length. If you choose deep water anchors, the method and location have to be documented in the application, and Alabama Power may add restrictions.
What goes into the design?
- Slip sizing for your boat and any PWCs
- Frame and decking chosen for Alabama summers and upkeep
- Flotation that's encased or closed-cell extruded marine foam
- Roof and storage within the open-structure rules
- Gangway and anchoring that work at summer and winter levels
How does the permit fit in?
The permit request goes through Alabama Power's online form, with a signed copy of the guidelines, a recorded deed, a dimensioned drawing and any HOA approval. Wait for the permit before starting.
The builder prices the job after seeing your lot, the water in front of it and any structure that's already there. We don't quote prices, and a number given before a site visit is only a rough guess.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Why can't my dock be longer than 62 feet?
Alabama Power's residential guidelines for Martin, Thurlow and Yates cap total length at 62 feet for all structures, and in narrow sloughs the one-third rule may limit it further.
My lot has under 100 feet of shoreline. Can I build?
Possibly, but Alabama Power says such lots may be restricted or ineligible. Its shoreline office tries to find some type of structure option.
Related services
More background: Lake Martin dock permit guide.
Want the dock done before summer pool comes back?
Call now and a dock builder who works on Lake Martin will call you back to talk through your lot, the drawdown and the Alabama Power permit.