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Pub.FH 017 -AUGUST 2012 DEPT"OF NATURAL RESOURCES r This edition of the PIER PLANNER reflects current Chapter 30 Wisconsin statutes and ch.NR 326, Wisconsin Administrative Code, (the state's rules that implement the statute),and is intended to assist waterfront u property owners to design and place a NEW pier that does not require a DNR permit. All EXISTING piers and wharves initially placed in the water by April,2012 do not need authorization from the DNR. L J Piers are a popular focus for boating and waterfront recreation. It seems like a simple topic,but if you have been involved in a dispute over"pier rights"with your neighbor or have seen shorelines filled with piers and boat lifts,you understand why regulations are important to treat everyone fairly and to protect the natural resources of our lakes, rivers and streams. If you have questions after reading this brochure,contact your local DNR Water Management Specialist for more information. DO I NEED A PERMIT? ✓ Most EXISTING piers or wharves are exempt-meaning no DNR permit or fee is required.Most new piers or wharves will be exempt if they comply with the specific dimensions and requirements described in this publication. On the Great Lakes,Mississippi River and other specified federal waters, permits from the U.S.Army Corps of Engineers may also be required. Some municipalities have local pier ordinances,which may have other restrictions or require local permits. Please contact your local zoning office to determine the existence of any local restrictions. WHO MAY PLACE AND USE PIERS? ✓ Only a riparian (waterfront property owner) may place a pier or wharf. Friends, neighbors or a contractor may assist with installation and maintenance,but owners are responsible for following requirements,obtaining any necessary permits,and for maintenance after construction. • The waterway is public,but piers,boat lifts and related structures are the private property of the riparian. However, someone wading along the shoreline may cross over a pier to continue using the waterway. WHERE CAN I LOCATE MY PROPOSED PIER AND HOW MANY BOATS CAN I PLAN ON DOCKING? Piers,wharves and moored boats must be placed in the"exclusive riparian zone';which is the space in the water adjacent to the riparian property where the riparian has the exclusive right to place structures. Two primary methods are used to determine the"exclusive riparian zone,this dividing line between adjacent owners. See Figure 1. • The number of boat slips-the total of all watercraft docked at a pier or wharf including boats in a boat lift or hoist-is limited to 2 boat slips for the first 50 feet of the riparian owner's shoreline frontage and no more than 1 boat slip for each additional full 50 feet of shoreline. In addition to the boat slip allowance listed here,a riparian owner can secure up to 2 personal watercraft for the = ;.a," " `° `"- first 50 feet of the riparian owner's shoreline frontage and one additional personal watercraft for each additional full 50 feet of shoreline. • A pier or wharf may not obstruct navigation. In narrow rivers or 1 ! channels,construct a wharf parallel to the shoreline rather than extending - J '._ . a pier perpendicular to it. Pier or wharf placement and use may not harm the public interests in waterways,which includes fish and wildlife habitat(such as spawning '•<; ,= " ;`.' ' areas,important vegetation,waterfowl nesting areas);water quality; ti rrr+ . .R4* natural scenic beauty;or public recreation and navigation. If you have any WWI 1111111 questions about whether your project might affect these public interests, contact your local DNR Water Management Specialist. In some cases, DNR may recommend project modifications to avoid harm to public rights.