Floating Docks in Charleston, SC

What a floating dock setup includes

• The float. A deck on sealed flotation, sized to what your permit allows.
• The gangway. Often aluminum, hinged at the pierhead so it can follow the tide.
• Pilings or guides that keep the float in place while it rides up and down.
• A jet dock or kayak launch, if the permit covers it.

Adding a float to an existing dock

A float adds square footage, and the state counts it toward the total your creek allows. That usually means a permit amendment or a new permit before it goes in. Dock Permits →

Replacing an old float

If your float sits low, lists to one side or the decking's gone soft, it can often be replaced at the same size. Same size in the same spot may count as a repair. Bigger needs approval first.

Storm season

Hurricane season runs June through November. After Hurricane Irma, cleanup crews were still going after floating docks sunk or stuck in the marsh near Charleston and Folly Beach. Before the season starts, have somebody look at how your float is anchored.