Getting a swim platform permit in the Florida Keys requires ACOE and FDEP authorization. Glen Boe & Associates manages the complete swim platform permit Florida Keys process in-house for residential waterfront properties throughout Monroe County.
Not every Florida Keys waterfront property has the water depth needed for a dock that accommodates vessels. In shallow water areas — particularly along Florida Bay, the, and certain Atlantic Ocean shorelines — a swim platform or observation platform provides waterfront access and enjoyment without requiring navigable water depth.
Swim Platform Permit Florida Keys — Agencies Required
Swim platforms and observation platforms are permitted similarly to docks:
ACOE — Authorization is required for construction over waters of the United States. Nationwide Permit options may be available depending on platform size and location.
FDEP — An Environmental Resource Permit is required for construction over Florida’s surface waters. Platform size, substrate type, and light penetration to the bottom are key factors in the FDEP review.
FKNMS — Projects within the Sanctuary that have potential impacts to seagrass, coral, or other benthic resources require FKNMS coordination and may require a benthic survey by an authorized biologist. Our FKNMS-approved biologist performs these surveys in-house.
Local Building Permit — A local building permit from the applicable jurisdiction is required. Our licensed PE designs all platforms to meet local building code requirements.
What Is a Swim Platform?
A swim platform is an elevated deck structure built over the water that provides access for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and waterfront recreation. Like a dock, it is supported by piles driven into the substrate — but because it is not designed for vessel mooring, it can be permitted in areas where water depth would prohibit a dock used for boat access.
What Is an Observation Platform?
An observation platform is similar in construction to a swim platform but is oriented toward viewing the surrounding marine environment — wildlife observation, bird watching, and enjoying the natural scenery of Florida Bay or the. These structures are popular on properties bordering shallow-water conservation areas and tidal flats.
Important Considerations in the Florida Keys
Seagrass and benthic resource protection are central to the FDEP and FKNMS review of any over-water structure. Applications for swim and observation platforms must demonstrate that shading impacts to seagrass are minimized through appropriate platform height, deck board spacing, and siting. Our FKNMS-approved biologist assesses benthic resources at the project site and our team designs the platform to minimize resource impacts — improving the likelihood of permit approval.
Contact Glen Boe & Associates to discuss your swim or observation platform project. (305) 743-9121 | glenboe@bellsouth.net