South Florida’s waterfront properties come with unique challenges — not just from the elements, but from the complex web of city, county, and intracoastal waterway regulations that govern what can and can’t be built along the shoreline. NOHMIS recently provided inspection and compliance engineering services for a residential waterfront property in the Aventura area, where an unpermitted boat lift installation required professional evaluation and a path toward regulatory compliance.
Inspection Scope: Seawall, Dock & Boat Lift
Our team conducted a thorough inspection of the property’s seawall, dock, and boat lift to assess structural condition and document the existing configuration. The boat lift and/or dock had been installed without proper permits, putting the property owner at risk of code enforcement action and potential removal orders.
Key elements of our inspection included:
- Structural evaluation of the existing seawall, dock, and boat lift
- Documentation of current conditions for regulatory submission
- Assessment of the installation’s compliance with city and county requirements
- Review of intracoastal waterway setback and encroachment allowances
Navigating Complex Waterway Regulations
Working toward compliance with both city and county authorities, we researched the applicable intracoastal waterway regulations governing the property. Through this process, we identified a critical constraint: the combined dock and boat lift configuration extended beyond the allowable encroachment into the waterway. Under the governing regulations, the property could support either the dock or the boat lift — but not both.
This is exactly the kind of discovery that underscores the value of professional engineering review before or after marine construction. Without a thorough understanding of the regulatory framework, property owners risk investing in structures that may need to be partially or fully removed.
Why Compliance Matters for Waterfront Property Owners
Unpermitted marine structures create real liability. Beyond the risk of fines and forced removal, they can complicate property sales, insurance coverage, and future improvement plans. NOHMIS helps property owners understand their options, document existing conditions, and develop a realistic path to compliance — even when the news isn’t what they were hoping to hear.
Why Choose NOHMIS for Waterfront Inspections in South Florida
At NOHMIS, we combine structural engineering expertise with hands-on knowledge of South Florida’s coastal regulatory environment. Whether you’re dealing with an unpermitted installation, planning new waterfront construction, or need a professional inspection for a property transaction, our team delivers clear answers and practical solutions.
Explore Our Services:
- Seawall, Dock & Marine Structure Inspections
- Structural Engineering
- Regulatory Compliance & Permitting Support
Contact:
NOHMIS Design, Engineering & Inspections
2195 N. Powerline Rd, Suite 2
Pompano Beach, FL 33069
+1 954-591-8361
Services@NOHMIS.com