How can a boat dock float be replaced while still in the water?

Question

I have a large boat dock with styrofoam floats that is floating in a lake. My lake is requiring that the styrofoam floats be replaced with encapsulated floats. Has anyone ever done or had this done? If so, how is it done? The lakeside is very steep and deep so grounding the dock is out of the question. I imagaine that a barge either has to lift the dock corner by corner or some type of inflatable device could be inserted and inflated to raise it enough to slip out the old float and slip in the new one.

Answer 1

Well before you get ready to empty your bank account, when you first installed the float, was it ok to use that kind of floatation?  

If so, and it isn't ilegal to use styrofoam in your state, you may be grandfathered into being able to keep your float just the way it is.  

You may want to get a legal opinion from a local lawyer just to cover yourself, but I don't think they have a leg to stand on unless you just want to be nice.....

What is their reasoning for wanting you to change?

If you still have to deal with that issue, then there is some other options to work with at that time, but until then, I wouldn't get too worried until you have established that you "have" to change.  Too many people come up with regulations and push them off on other people "Just Because" when they have no rights to do so.

Good Luck!

Answer 2

There are many options for you to choose from. I have been a Radisson dock dealer for many years and have seen this sort of problem happen. The other answer above me may be correct in that you could be grandfathered in for any reason other than environmental or aesthetical purposes (if you live in some sort of association or something). Find that out before you spend money to do your dock.

Now, check prices and availability. Is your dock worth putting new floatation under it? How's the decking? Is it sturdy and well-built? Basically, it might be cheaper just to go with a new dock with the encapsulated floats rather than re-float your dock. But hey, whatever floats your boat..er, dock. If you can, unhitch the dock from it's mooring chains (don't forget to tie a bouy or fender to the chain so that it doesn't sink) and drag it up on shore. Then you can jack one side of it up and replace the floats like that. Sometimes, docks will float quite well with a missing float (if it has more than 2 floatation devices, anyway) so you could remove one and then get a few of your friends to push down on the float to make it go under water to sneak it under the dock and into place. Other than that, a barge can come and lift it out of the water and replace the floats like that, but that costs $$$. I wish you luck!