Perhaps the most asked about aspect of Big Bear lakefront living involves the rules and regulations governing boat docks.
First off, every lakefront owner who has a boat dock in the water must have a current permit with the governing body of Big Bear Lake, the Big Bear Municipal Water District. (www.BBMWD.com) If you are a new Big Bear lakefront property owner, you must file an application with the BBMWD, as dock privileges go with the owner of the property - not the property itself.
If your lakefront property does not currently have a dock, you can contact the BBMWD to find out if you have dock privileges and what size dock you can place on the property. Having your assessor's parcel number (APN#) will facilitate this process.
If you are looking to have a new dock built, the BBMWD keeps a current list of approved dock builders. A new single slip dock will cost approximately $7500. Keep in mind that a single slip dock allows you to hold 3 watercraft - on inside the slip and two "side tied" on the outside of each side of the dock.
If you are looking to purchase a used boat dock, from time to time you can find them for sale. This is usually done "word of mouth", with dock builders often brokering these transactions.
Dock fees are due every year by April 1st. The fee that is paid depends on the size of the dock but is generally around $300 - $400. You will receive an invoice in the mail in this regard earlier in the calendar year.
Each year, boat docks are inspected by the BBMWD. It is the resonsibility of the dock owner to make sure their dock complies with BBMWD standards. If there are any corrections needed to be made, the dock owner will be notified and will have 30 days to fix the violation. If the corrections are not made, the dock permit could be revoked.
The most common reasons that docks fail inspection include trip hazards such as loose boards and exposed nail and screw heads. Also, dock instability, inadequate floatation and supports are commonly cited.
Other common infractions include dock poles and floatation material.
Because Big Bear Lake's water levels fluctuate annually, you'll notice that docks are held in place by poles. These dock poles allow for docks to rise and fall with the current water levels. Note that all float poles require retainers or caps that will prevent the dock from floating above the pole tops.
All docks have some kind of floatation material under the top decking. Styrofoam is one of the more common materials. Styrofoam is allowed so long as it is not exposed on the exterior of the dock. This is for environmental reasons.
Again, being the governing body of all things involving Big Bear Lake, the Big Bear Municipal Water District is your best source of infomation for dock information. You can call them at (909) 866-5796 or visit the webste at www.BBMWD.com.