Generally, you are allowed to replace, renovate, or reconstruct water dependent structures, such as docks, piers, wharfs, and bulkheads, or temporary or seasonal structures like floating docks and mooring rafts, within the guidelines of NJDEP. Keep in mind though, that Lake Hopatcong, Lake Musconetcong, and Cranberry Lake all fall under the oversight of the NJDEP Division of Parks & Forestry, which is the Hopatcong State Park and Lake Hopatcong Commission. This also includes new boathouses, expansions of same, and pilings.

For the construction of any of the above, BLSH&E can provide you with the necessary designs, plans, and permitting you will require. First and foremost will be the variance plan (or zoning plan or site plan, whatever the municipality refers to it as). This will include information concerning conformance to the zoning ordinances (i.e. setback requirements, slope analysis, impervious coverage and area of disturbance calculations), and will portray the proposed improvements as it relates to walkways, retaining walls, site regrading, and of course the bulkhead/dock/boathouse of your desire. As with all site plans, stormwater management issues may need to be addressed (as in the case of the Borough of Hopatcong which maintains a 1500 SF disturbance threshold). Boundary and topographic survey are thus necessary in order to prepare the site plan.

Regarding permitting, authorization may be granted under NJDEP’s Permit-by-rule (PBR 17 or 19). Should you not meet those requirements, than you will need an Individual Permit. There are no FHA (flood hazard area) general permits available to permit the construction of docks and piers. If you can’t meet the PBR, then you will be required to obtain an Individual Permit. If wetlands are present, typically you can obtain the General Permit Number 19.
BLSH&E is partnered with several architects that can assist with the conceptual design drawings, if the need arises (i.e. boathouse). I will then prepare the necessary design for pilings, bulkhead, cantilevered dock (if proposed), and the ancillary deck plans if included. As with all of my engineering consultation/designs, you will be presented with a detailed written proposal of the Scope of Work for your review, including fee, prior to commencing. Give me a call today.