KEY WEST, FLORIDA
Boat Lift Installation Key West
Boat lift installation in Key West follows the city’s preference for open wet slips over covered ones (City Code Sec. 110-186).
We put Key West owners in touch with licensed marine contractors who plan lifts and docks together.
Free consultation, a written scope, no obligation.
State limits
Keys waters are an Outstanding Florida Water, so a state-exempt dock, lift roof included, stays under 500 square feet over water. Lift roofs may overhang no more than 1 foot.
Why it matters
Approvals
The city does not approve dock work until federal and state compliance is shown, with a review of seagrass, hardbottom and manatees. Docks need a continuous channel at least 4 feet deep at mean low water (Sec. 122-1186).
A new lift needs a building official permit (Sec. 118-361). Monroe County’s 6 foot maintenance-dredging cap does not apply to the Key West Harbor and Safe Harbor entrance channels (Sec. 118-10).
What a free inspection includes
A contractor comes to your property, looks at the structure above and below the waterline where needed, and tells you what is actually happening.
You get a written scope and estimate. No obligation, no trip fee.
- On-site assessment of the structure and surrounding soil
- Photos and a plain-English explanation of the problem
- Written estimate with scope and materials
- Repair versus replacement guidance where both are options
Related Pages
Serving waterfront Florida
Local waterways, permit offices, and conditions vary by region. Pick yours.
Get a free inspection
No obligation, no trip fee. A licensed marine contractor in the Florida Keys will call you to arrange a time.
Find out what your waterfront needs
A licensed marine contractor in the Florida Keys will inspect your seawall, dock, or lift at no cost and put it in writing.