Do I need a permit for dock construction in St. Johns County?

Most likely, yes. St. Johns County typically requires a permit for this type of work, and depending on the waterway, Florida DEP and/or Army Corps of Engineers review may apply too. The local contractor you're matched with can confirm exactly what's needed and handle submission for dock construction projects in St. Augustine.

How long does it take to permit and build a new dock?

Permitting typically takes 6 to 16 weeks depending on the county and whether state or federal review is required. Construction itself usually takes 1 to 3 weeks once permits are approved.

Do I need a permit to build a dock in Florida?

Yes. Nearly all dock construction in Florida requires a permit from the local county, and many projects also require Florida DEP and/or Army Corps of Engineers approval, especially near protected shorelines or navigable waterways.

Bridge of Lions and marina in St. Augustine, Florida — dock and seawall service area

St. Augustine, FL · St. Johns County

Dock Construction in St. Augustine, FL

As the nation's oldest continuously occupied European-founded city, St. Augustine has some of the First Coast's oldest working waterfront — from historic downtown seawalls near the Bridge of Lions to residential docks on Davis Shores and the San Sebastian River — and that age means dock and seawall rebuilds here often uncover decades-old construction that needs to be brought up to current code. For property owners along Matanzas River, San Sebastian River, Intracoastal Waterway, dock construction is one of the most common marine construction needs we handle in St. Augustine.

Dock Construction on Matanzas River

The Matanzas River's strong tidal exchange near the inlet and the San Sebastian's more sheltered, industrial-adjacent waters call for different dock strategies depending on which side of the peninsula a property sits. That matters directly for dock construction: A new dock is a decade-plus investment, so we design every one around your specific waterway, boat, and how your family actually uses the water — not a one-size-fits-all template.

Common Local Issues

Historic district permitting rules, aging bulkheads original to older homes, and strong Matanzas Inlet tidal currents are the recurring themes in St. Augustine dock and seawall work. Near Bridge of Lions and throughout Davis Shores, Vilano Beach, San Sebastian Harbor area, these conditions shape how we approach every dock construction project.

About This Service

Custom-engineered new dock construction from design through permitting to build.

Typical Cost in St. Augustine

$8,000 – $60,000+ depending on size and materials

Signs to Watch For

Signs You Need Dock Construction

You've purchased waterfront property with no existing dock
Your current dock is beyond economical repair
You want deep-water access your current shoreline doesn't offer
You're upgrading from a fixed dock to accommodate a boat lift

Our Process

How It Works

1
Site & waterway assessment
We evaluate bottom conditions, water depth, tidal range, and riparian lines specific to your property.
2
Custom design
We design dock footprint, decking material, and lift accommodations around your boat and how you use the water.
3
Permitting
We prepare and submit permit packages to the relevant county, state (FDEP), and Army Corps of Engineers offices.
4
Construction
Our crews build to the approved plans using marine-grade materials rated for Florida saltwater exposure.
5
Final inspection & handoff
We walk the finished dock with you and provide documentation for your records and insurance.

Benefits

Why It's Worth Doing Right

Custom-engineered for your specific waterway and vessel
Full permitting handled in-house, start to finish
Choice of pressure-treated wood, aluminum, or composite decking
Built to current Florida Building Code wind and flood standards

FAQ

Dock Construction FAQ — St. Augustine

Dock Construction projects in St. Augustine typically fall within $8,000 – $60,000+ depending on size and materials, the same general range we see across Northeast Florida. Exact pricing depends on dock length and square footage and site-specific conditions on Matanzas River.

Other Services in St. Augustine

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