Q:  What do buyers and sellers need to know about dock permits at Lake of the Ozarks?

A:  Some of the most important knowledge to have when purchasing real estate at Lake of the Ozarks is that of dock permits.  Dock permits are issued and transferred by AmerenUE.  The process is not difficult but it is important to follow the permit procedure to the letter in order to protect your investment.  An experienced professional realtor can be a great asset during this process. 

It is helpful to have an overview of AmerenUE’s role at the Lake of the Ozarks.  Next to supplying the bulk of the electrical power to the area, AmerenUE is best known for their role in shoreline management.  In an effort to protect the environment one example of shoreline management is seen in the regulations of dock size, construction and location.  The materials used to build docks and the flotation materials are closely regulated in order to keep the Lake clean and safe. 

The company’s shoreline management efforts are clearly seen in the permit process.  Everything from seawalls to boat docks to swim platforms require a permit.  There is a specific procedure to follow if you are constructing a new dock, buying an existing dock or moving a dock from one location to another. 

When building a new dock or seawall you will first need to submit an application.  An application for a dock will need to include the specifications of the structure and a drawing to scale showing the distance between the proposed dock and neighboring docks as well as the relationship to the applicant’s property lines extending toward the Lake.  The distance across the cove or channel and the distance from the end of the proposed dock to the center of the cove or channel will also need to be included.  To apply for a seawall permit the elevation and distance from the toe of the bank will be required.  All of this information can be obatained through the professional who is building the dock or seawall.

If you purchase real estate with an existing dock you will need to submit an application for transfer of the previous owner’s permit.  If no changes have been made to the dock structure since the permit was issued the process will be a simple one.  If changes have been made and no permit was issued in relationship to those changes you will need to obtain and submit all the information as required for a new dock permit. 

Moving a dock from one location to another is a similar process.  It will be necessary to submit information pertaining to the applicant’s property in order for AmerenUE to determine if specific requirements can be met at the new location.  It is also essential to know what materials have been used to construct and float the dock.  Certain materials have been banned from use on the Lake of the Ozarks due to their environmentally hazardous potential.  If the dock you are planning to purchase or move contains restricted materials, not only will you not be issued a permit but also you will not be allowed to move it. 

Experienced professionals are crucial when dealing with dock issues at the Lake.  Seasoned dock builders who have experience in this area will be able to provide you with all of the information you will need whether you build a new dock or purchase an existing dock.  A Missouri certified surveyor can determine exact location of your lot lines as well as the shoreline footage that you have available for yourdock needs.  The costs of these professional services are minimal when compared to the cost of correcting a mistake down the road. 

To find out more about AmerenUE and permit procedures at Lake of the Ozarks you can visist ameren.com.