One of the most common questions we get at Hansen Marine Construction is, “Why does the permitting process take so long?” It’s a fair question—especially when you’re eager to get your dock, seawall, or boat house built. But the truth is, the permitting phase is one of the most important parts of any marine construction project. While it can feel like a delay, it’s actually what protects your investment and ensures your project is built legally and safely.

What’s Involved in the Permitting Process?

Marine construction permits involve multiple layers of review from different agencies. Depending on the project and its location, we may need approvals from:

• Local building departments for structural and zoning compliance

• Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) for environmental impact

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers if the project affects navigable waters or protected habitats

• Water Management Districts such as St. Johns River or Southwest Florida Water Management

Each agency reviews project plans to ensure they follow state and federal laws regarding environmental protection, water quality, public access, and shoreline stability.

Why It Takes Time 🐢

Permitting isn’t a one-click process. It involves:

• Detailed site plans and surveys

• Environmental assessments

• Public notice and comment periods (for certain projects)

• Agency coordination and occasional revisions

The average timeframe can range from 4 to 10+ weeks, depending on the scope of work, location, and agency workload. Complex projects—like large docks, covered boat houses, or installations in protected zones—may take longer.

What Can Delay a Permit?

❌ Missing documents
❌ Incomplete site plans
❌ Unclear property boundaries or setback violations
❌ Lack of contractor experience with agency requirements

That’s why hiring a contractor who understands the permitting process is critical. At Hansen Marine Construction, we handle all permits in-house and know how to avoid common delays.

Why It’s Worth the Wait 🛑✅

Permits exist to:

• Protect your property from legal issues or fines

• Ensure structures are safe, code-compliant, and built to last

• Prevent you from having to tear down or rebuild an unapproved project

• Keep Florida’s waterways and shorelines clean and stable for future generations

Skipping the permit process—or working with a contractor who cuts corners—can result in project shutdowns, legal trouble, and expensive rework.

We Make It Easy

When you work with Hansen Marine Construction, you don’t have to deal with the red tape. We’ll:

• Assess your property and determine what’s needed

• Draft and submit all applications and documents

• Communicate with local and state agencies

• Keep you updated every step of the way

Build It Right from the Start

Permitting may take time, but it’s time well spent. It ensures your marine construction project is legal, safe, and built to last.

Planning a project? Contact Hansen Marine Construction today—we’ll help you get started the right way, with no surprises.