Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers on permits, costs, materials and timelines from South Florida’s longest-established marine contractor.
Quick answer
Most South Florida dock, seawall and piling projects need permits, costs are quoted free after a site visit, and we serve Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach. Below are the questions waterfront owners ask us most.
| Service area | Broward · Miami-Dade · Palm Beach |
|---|---|
| Established | 1965 (~60 years) |
| Services | Seawalls · docks · piling · boat lifts · floating docks |
| Permits | Handled in-house (federal/state/local) |
| Licensed | Broward & Palm Beach counties · fully insured |
| Typical cost | Free, no-obligation estimate |
| Hours | Mon–Fri 8 AM–4 PM · Sat 8 AM–3 PM |
Do I need a permit for dock, seawall or piling work in South Florida?
Almost always, yes. Marine construction typically requires county or municipal permits and often state (FDEP) or federal (Army Corps of Engineers) approval. Broward Dock and Seawall has handled this permitting in-house since 1965 and manages it as part of your project.
How much does a seawall, dock or boat lift cost?
Every waterfront lot is different, so we provide a free, no-obligation estimate after assessing your site, water depth, soil and goals. We give honest guidance on whether repair or replacement is the better value.
What areas do you serve?
Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties — including Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Lighthouse Point, Hillsboro Beach, Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Hollywood and Dania Beach.
Do you do new construction and repairs?
Both. We build new docks, decks, seawalls, piling, boat lifts and floating docks, and we repair and replace existing structures.
What materials do you build docks and decks with?
Wood, concrete, composite and Ipe (Brazilian Walnut) — a premium hardwood nearly twice as dense and up to five times harder than most woods. We help you choose based on budget, use and looks.
What boat lift brands do you install?
We are an authorized Neptune Boat Lifts dealer, installing aluminum lifts from 1,500 lbs to 300,000 lbs, and we install SportPort drive-on floating docks.
How big a project can you handle?
From a single residential dock to the largest commercial seawall and dock projects. With our own barge and crane and a full in-house crew, we are big enough for the toughest job and small enough to appreciate your business.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes — licensed in Broward and Palm Beach counties and fully insured.
How do I get a quote?
Call (954) 974-6060, email chuck@browarddockandseawall.com, or send the form on our contact page. Estimates are always free and no-obligation.
Helpful resources: Florida DEP · U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Jacksonville District) · Verify a Florida contractor license (DBPR).
Still have a question?
Call a real person who knows South Florida water — we’re happy to help and the quote is free.