Dock & Boathouse Rules
for DFW Lakes

Here’s the thing: rules for docks and boathouses change by lake because different agencies control the shoreline. Before a buyer writes an offer, they should know whether new docks are allowed, how existing permits re-issue to a new owner, and what can—and can’t—be rebuilt.

In North Texas, shoreline control usually sits with one of four entities. Each uses its own permits, transfer/re-issue process, inspections, and design constraints:

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) – Federal reservoirs such as Lewisville and Grapevine follow the Corps’ Shoreline Management rules. See the [USACE shoreline management FAQs] for the high-level framework. Corps Lakes
• Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) – Regulates Eagle Mountain, Cedar Creek, Richland-Chambers, and more; improvement permits and current guidelines are published by TRWD. Tarrant Regional Water District
• Cities (local control) – Examples include Lake Ray Hubbard (City of Dallas’ take-line area administered by partner cities) and Lake Worth (City of Fort Worth lease/standards).

• New docks: Not allowed. The only path is to buy an existing permitted boathouse.
• Permit mechanics: Permits don’t “transfer” in name; after inspection, the Corps issues a new 5-year shoreline use permit to the new owner (proof of boat ownership required).

Reference: [USACE Lewisville Lake shoreline permit FAQ].

• New docks: No permits for new boathouses. Existing structures can’t be moved.
• Rebuild limits: No living quarters; rebuilds must match the original footprint or smaller and need Lake Office approval.

References: [USACE Grapevine Lake boathouse rules] and [USACE Grapevine boating page].

• Land ownership: The “take area” between the rear lot line and the water is owned by the City of Dallas and subleased to adjacent owners by partner cities (e.g., Rowlett, Rockwall, Garland).
• Permits: Sublease first, then obtain city permits for any dock/boathouse or take-area improvements.

References: [Rowlett Lake Ray Hubbard take-line overview], [Rowlett take-area sublease (PDF)], [Rockwall take-line info], [Rowlett take-area permit FAQ].

• Permits: TRWD requires an Improvement Permit for construction, placement, or operation of any dock/boathouse or related structure; submittals and inspections apply.

References: [TRWD permits & guidelines] and [Eagle Mountain Improvement Permit Guidelines (PDF)]

• Process & requirements: TRWD improvement permit; documentation and timelines apply. Current consolidated Residential Improvement Permit Guidelines include Cedar Creek details.

References: [TRWD Residential Improvement Permit Guidelines (2025)] and legacy [Cedar Creek guidelines (PDF)].

• Leases & standards: Fort Worth manages lakefront leases and enforces a dock/boathouse standards ordinance; approvals are required for construction/repairs.

References: [Lake Worth Lease Management] and [Lake Worth Boat Dock Standards Ordinance (PDF)].

1. Identify the regulator first (USACE, TRWD, City).
   
2. Confirm current permit status and expiration in writing (ask for inspections and electrical sign-offs where applicable).
   
3. Ask what can and cannot be rebuilt (footprint, second levels, roof types, lifts). USACE Grapevine Lake boathouse rules
4. Verify how permits move to new owners (re-issue after inspection vs. direct transfer). USACE Lewisville Lake shoreline permit FAQ
5. Check sublease/easement needs and contractor/insurance requirements when cities or TRWD are involved. Rowlett Lake Ray Hubbard take-line overview and TRWD permits & guidelines

Browse live MLS listings for lakefront homes with private docks/boathouses on Grapevine, Lewisville, Ray Hubbard, Eagle Mountain, Cedar Creek, and Lake Worth.. Filter by waterfront footage, covered slip, lift, deep water, and year built. In addition to public listings, Susan has access to off-market and Compass Private Exclusive properties.

Buying lakefront in DFW isn’t just about the view. It’s about what you’re allowed to build, keep, or rebuild on the water. Susan verifies permits up front, aligns properties with the correct regulator, and structures timelines so inspections and approvals don’t derail closing. Book a short consult to outline your goals and get a targeted list—on and off market.