Dock moves, cables and anchoring
A floating dock is only as good as what holds it in place. Here's how anchoring and relocation work on a lake that rises and falls.
Lake of the Ozarks docks are typically held by cables or stiff arms running to shore and to anchors. Those connections take constant strain from wakes, wind and changing water levels. When cables wear or anchors slip, the dock drifts, twists or bangs into the walkway.
Signs the anchoring needs attention
- The dock has drifted or swings more than it used to
- Cables look frayed, rusty or slack
- The walkway pulls at an angle or the shore hinge is stressed
- The dock grounds or tilts badly during winter low water
Planning for the lake's range
Ameren operates Bagnell Dam under a license that lets the lake fall to 650 feet in normal conditions and 645 feet in emergencies, compared with a full pool of about 660 feet. Ameren suggests designing docks to handle 650 feet. Cable length, winch adjustment and walkway length all have to work across that range. Ameren also notes the lake is usually lowest in winter to early spring, so absentee owners may want someone checking the dock then.
Moving a dock to a different property
A dock relocated to another property needs a new Ameren permit before it's installed there, and the original permit number stays with the old property. A powered dock that's relocated also needs its electrical permit or approval from the local fire district. If you're just shifting the dock along your own shoreline, it still has to meet setbacks and cove limits, so check with Ameren first.
Buying or selling a lake home?
Dock permits don't carry over automatically. The new owner applies for a permit transfer with the deed and, in the Osage Beach, Lake Ozark, Sunrise Beach and Four Seasons areas, an electrical inspection approved within the last 12 months. A builder can check the dock's condition and anchoring before closing.
What a builder handles
- Replacing cables, clamps, winches and anchors
- Re-positioning a dock within setbacks
- Towing and setting a relocated dock
- Adjusting or replacing the walkway
The builder sets the price after seeing your shoreline, water depth and existing dock. We don't quote prices, and any number given over the phone is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
How often should dock cables be checked?
Look at them at least each spring and fall, and after any big storm or deep drawdown. Replace any that are frayed or rusted.
Can I take my dock with me when I sell?
Possibly, but installing it at another property needs a new Ameren permit first, and the original permit number stays with the old property.
Related services
- New floating docks
- Boat lifts and PWC lifts
- Dock repair, flotation and re-decking
- Seawalls and shoreline riprap
More background: Lake of the Ozarks dock permit guide.
Dock sitting low, lift acting up, or ready for a new slip?
Call now and a dock builder who works on Lake of the Ozarks will call you back to talk through your shoreline.