Changes to regulations regarding the specifications of piers in Wisconsin have been proposed by the Department of Natural Resources, but legislation has been introduced by a pair of lawmakers interested in keeping current recreational landowners with waterfront docks clear of scrutiny.

Rep. John Gard (R-Peshtigo) and Rep. Scott Gunderson (R-Waterford) have introduced legislation to grandfather existing docks in order to limit liability and compliance to newly constructed docks and piers. Regardless of outcome, only a fraction of current piers and docks will be affected by the new DNR rules. In fact, the DNR initially estimated that 20 percent of 500,000 piers would not be in compliance with the new rules. A more recent study of 35 state lakes reduced the expected number of non-compliant piers just over 16 percent.

The new standards being proposed require piers to be no wider than six feet; extend no further than 3 feet of water depth or beyond a point deep enough to moor a boat, have no more than two boat slips for the first 50 feet of water frontage plus another slip for each additional 50 feet, and that the pier be located outside of sensitive areas as specified by the DNR.

According to the proposed DNR rules, owners of new or existing non-compliant piers would be required to pay between $50 and $300 and obtain a special permit, modify the pier to meet the standards, or remove the pier.

According to Ken Gronski, Land Specialist for Wisconsin Waterfront Properties, changes to existing laws regarding pier specifications should not have a major impact on waterfront investment or valuation. From what I understand, the DNR is interested in limiting the more spacious deck-type platforms that allow for more occupancy than just accessing the water for swimming or fishing, or boat activity. Gronski added, Current dock standards are very similar to the proposed rules. Realistically, individuals investing in or owning waterfront properties shouldnt have too much concern regarding the proposed new rules.

Interest in owning waterfront throughout the Midwest has grown over the past 5-10 years, so changes in waterfront regulations is of concern to a rising number of landowners. Much of the interest in waterfront properties on Wisconsins lakes and rivers has been due to steadily rising appreciative value in recreational land, which has attracted the attention of investors and families looking for a getaway place.

As more people find waterfront properties a part of their investment portfolios, they are naturally concerned about rules or proposed rule changes. In this case, the changes and the impact on their investment is likely minimal or non-existent, according to Gronski.

For additional information on the proposed rule changes from the DNR, contact Ken Gronski or visit www.wiswaters.com