Sep 30, 2026
Your pier is the starting point for summer mornings on the lake, afternoons on the boat, and evenings watching the sunset. Whether you’re planning a new pier or making changes to an existing one, understanding Wisconsin’s pier requirements can help you plan with confidence.
The Wisconsin DNR’s Pier Planner outlines how waterfront owners can design and place a pier that qualifies for a permit exemption. Here are some highlights to keep in mind.
Does Every Pier Need a DNR Permit?
No. Seasonal piers—the kind installed in spring and removed for winter—can qualify for a DNR permit exemption when they meet Wisconsin’s requirements for pier design, placement, and use. When all exemption conditions are met, a DNR pier permit isn’t required.
Older piers have separate considerations. Qualifying legacy piers first placed in the water before April 17, 2012, are exempt from DNR permitting. Repairs or replacement that preserve the existing footprint can remain exempt, but an expansion or layout change should be reviewed before you assume the same exemption applies. Wisconsin DNR pier guidance.
How Wide Can a Pier Be?
For a new pier seeking an exemption, the general maximum width is 6 feet. A wider loading platform is allowed, provided its surface area does not exceed 200 square feet. This leaves room for different layouts, including straight piers and “L” or “T” configurations. The important part is making sure the entire design meets the exemption requirements.
How Far Into the Water Can It Go?
There isn’t one standard pier length that works for every property. The Pier Planner generally allows a pier to extend to the 3-foot water depth, measured at summer low water, or to the depth needed to moor a boat or use a boat lift, whichever is farther from shore. An authorized municipal pierhead line may also apply.
That means water depth and boating needs matter when planning your layout. Your neighbor’s pier length may not be the right guide for your own waterfront.
How Many Boats Can You Keep at Your Pier?
Under the standard exemption allowance, you may have:
- Two boat slips for the first 50 feet of shoreline.
- One additional boat slip for each additional full 50 feet.
Boats kept on lifts or hoists count toward that total. There is also a separate personal watercraft allowance: two for the first 50 feet of shoreline, plus one for each additional full 50 feet.
Placement Matters as Much as Size
Your pier, boat lifts, and moored boats must stay within your property’s riparian zone—the area of water where you have the right to place waterfront structures.
Those boundaries aren’t always a straight extension of your land’s property lines, especially along a curved or irregular shoreline. Understanding them before installation can help avoid conflicts with neighboring waterfront owners.
Piers also must allow water to move freely and must not obstruct navigation or harm fish and wildlife habitat. A thoughtful layout makes room for both your waterfront activities and other users of the waterway.
Check Local Requirements, Too
A DNR permit exemption doesn’t automatically mean every approval is covered and all the same rules apply for seasonal and permanent piers. Municipalities may have additional rules or permit requirements. On the Great Lakes and certain other waters, authorization from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may also be required.
Thinking about installing, extending, or reconfiguring your pier? Before starting your project, confirm the requirements for your property by contacting Pier & Waterfront Solutions and we will take care of contacting your local zoning office and DNR Water Management Specialist to make sure your project meets the full exemption requirements!
Aug 13, 2026
August may bring back-to-school shopping and the first hints of fall, but don’t put away the flip-flops just yet. While the season may feel like it’s winding down, there’s still plenty of sunshine, warm weather, and long evenings waiting to be enjoyed. In fact, many lake lovers will tell you that August is one of the best times to be on the water.
Soak Up What’s Left
August is often one of the hottest months of the year, making it the perfect time for boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the shore. After soaking up the summer sun for months, lakes are warm and inviting, creating ideal conditions for a refreshing swim or an afternoon spent floating with family and friends.
It’s also a great time to take advantage of the slower pace that late summer often brings. As vacations wind down and routines begin to shift, you may find quieter lakes, calmer waters, and a little more room to enjoy your favorite spots.
If your calendar is about to fill with school schedules, sports, and fall activities, now is the perfect time to squeeze in one more family adventure before the busy season begins.
Chasing August Sunsets
There’s something special about an August evening on the water. Comfortable temperatures, colorful sunsets, and, in many areas, fewer bugs create the perfect setting to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Take an evening boat ride after work, cast a fishing line as the sun dips below the horizon, or simply sit on the dock and watch the sky change colors. Sometimes the simplest moments become the ones you remember most.
Make Every Warm Day Count
Just because the stores are filled with backpacks and pumpkins doesn’t mean boating season is over. There’s still time for one more weekend at the lake, one more sunset cruise, one more swim, or one more afternoon making memories with the people you love.
Before you know it, cooler temperatures will arrive, so make the most of every warm day while you can.
While You’re Out There…
As you enjoy the rest of the season, take a look around your waterfront. Is your dock ready for another year? Have you been thinking about adding a boat lift or making improvements to your shoreline? Do you need a better or easier access to the shoreline?
Late summer is one of the best times to start planning for next year so you’ll be ready to hit the water as soon as next spring arrives—without the last-minute rush.
At Pier and Waterfront Solutions, we’re here to help you make every season on the water even better. Whether you’re planning a new dock, a boat lift, or waterfront improvements, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Contact us to make next season even better!
Jul 3, 2026
PWS Pier in Rowleys Bay
For many boaters, the local boat ramp is the starting point for a great day on the water. Whether you’re heading out for a morning of fishing, an afternoon cruise, or a day of watersports, knowing how to use a boat ramp safely and efficiently helps everyone enjoy their time on the water.
A boat ramp is a sloped surface that extends into the water, allowing boats to be launched and retrieved using a trailer. Many public launches also offer amenities such as parking, courtesy docks, restrooms, fish-cleaning stations, and daily or seasonal launch passes.
Prepare Before You Reach the Ramp
One of the easiest ways to speed up the launching process is to prepare your boat in the designated staging area before it’s your turn. Be sure to:
- Install the drain plug.
- Remove tie-down straps and the boat cover.
- Load coolers, fishing gear, and watersports equipment.
- Confirm all required safety equipment is onboard.
Taking care of these tasks ahead of time keeps traffic moving and helps everyone get on the water faster.
Practice Good Boat Ramp Etiquette
Boat ramps can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. A little courtesy goes a long way toward keeping things safe and efficient. Be patient with inexperienced drivers as they try to back in.
After launching, move your boat away from the ramp so others can launch. When loading your boat at the end of the day, secure it to the trailer and move to the staging area before unloading gear or preparing for the drive home.
Be patient with less experienced boaters, wait your turn, and avoid lingering on the ramp longer than necessary. Everyone appreciates a smooth, efficient launch.
PWS Pier in Town of Liberty Grove
PWS Pier in Rowleys Bay
Put Safety First
Before every outing, inspect both your boat and trailer. Check your tires, lights, safety chains, and winch strap, and always review the weather and water conditions before heading out.
If you’re new to boating, consider practicing at a less busy launch or asking an experienced friend to help you the first few times. One of the easiest mistakes to avoid is forgetting the drain plug—a quick check before launching can save you from an unpleasant surprise.
It’s also best to avoid “power loading,” where the boat’s engine is used to force it onto the trailer. Using the trailer’s winch instead helps protect both the ramp and the surrounding environment.
Know Before You Go
Every launch is a little different. Some require daily or seasonal passes, while others have specific hours or local regulations. Taking a few minutes to check the rules before leaving home can help you avoid delays and make your day on the water more enjoyable.
If you’re still building confidence, consider visiting during off-peak hours when the launch is less crowded.
PWS Pier and Sun Stream Boat Lift
Enjoy More Time on the Water
Public boat ramps make boating accessible to thousands of families every year, and with a little preparation and good etiquette, launching your boat can become a quick and routine part of every outing.
For many boaters, public launches are the perfect way to enjoy a day on the water. But if you find yourself boating often, a private dock and boat lift can make every outing even more convenient. Instead of trailering your boat to the launch each time, you can spend less time preparing and more time doing what you love.
If you’re ready to make the most of your waterfront property, our team at Pier and Waterfront Solutions can help. From custom docks and boat lifts to complete waterfront solutions, we’ll work with you to create an access system that fits your lifestyle. Contact us today for a free quote and take the next step toward easier days on the water.
May 20, 2026
May is the, “It’s finally time!” month for Great Lakes dock owners. It is time to transition from winter concern to spring preparation. Whether you are on Lake Michigan or the Bay of Green Bay the harsh winter likely left your shoreline needing some attention.
Here is your essential May purchase and to-do list to get your waterfront ready for summer.
1. Dock Inspection & Hardware Replacements
Before reinstalling docks or lifts inspect everything for rust or damage.
- Corrosion-Resistant Hardware: Purchase stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized bolts, fasteners, and brackets.
- Dock Cleats & Bumpers: Upgrade to heavy-duty cleats and add new PVC or rubber bumpers to protect your boat and dock.
- Foot Pads & Leg Kits: Replace damaged leg posts or add new foot pads for stability.
- Replacement Rollers/Wheels: If you have a roll-in dock, check that the tires are still functional.
- Structural Sections: If you need to replace pier sections or extend your pier into deeper water, order now to avoid delays.
2. Shoreline & Safety Upgrades
- Dock Lighting: Solar-powered LED lights are a great option for safety and to mark your dock after dark.
- Dock Box: A weatherproof dock box is essential to store life jackets, tools, and cleaners on-site.
- Ladders: Now is a good time to add new ladders to your dock or seawall. Inspect current ladders to ensure they are secure for swimmers. Complete any repairs before summer.
- Erosion Control: Inspect for erosion or washouts. Protecting your property during lower water years can save money and stress later.
3. Boat Lift and Mooring Gear
- Lift Covers & Canopy: Inspect your boat lift canopy. Replace worn covers to protect against harsh summer sun.
- Mooring Lines & Bumpers: Buy new 5/8-or-1/2-inch nylon dock lines and marine-grade fenders or bumpers to handle shifting water levels.
4. What to bring to the pier before heading out on the lake.
- Sun Protection Comes First: Even on cooler days, the sun reflecting off the water is no joke. Always stock up on high-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a good hat. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not heading home looking like a lobster.
- The “Just in Case” Boating Kit:
- Extra dock lines
- A basic tool kit
- Spare fuses and a flashlight
- First aid supplies
- The Small Stuff That Saves the Day:
- Lip balm with SPF
- Bug spray for early mornings or evenings
- Dry-bags for valuables
- Extra towels or a change of clothes
Beat the Rush
Local dock specialists (like Pier and Waterfront Solutions) get fully booked in May.
- Schedule Professionals: Pier and waterfront Solutions service can install your docks or lifts, call immediately to secure your spot.
- New and Used Markets: Pier and Waterfront Solutions can provide new and used dock sections or lifts.
May is prime prep season on the Great Lakes. Water levels are rising and summer is coming! Prepare now before traffic ramps up!
Contact Pier & Waterfront Solutions today at 920-493-4404
Our Hours:
Mon–Fri: 8am – 4pm
Saturday: By appointment
Sunday: Closed
Nov 3, 2025
Waterfront enthusiasts!
The 2025 season may be coming to an end, but now is the best time to start preparing for next year. Pier & Waterfront Solutions recommends planning early by ordering new products in the fall or early winter for installation the following spring. Lead times for new products vary, and planning ahead is crucial for custom designs, special materials, and scheduling a professional installation. Ordering early saves money and avoids delays.
- Dock and pier systems
- Aluminum docks
- Steel docks
- Permanent piers
- Boat lifts
- Cradle lifts
- Free standing lifts
- Elevator lifts
- Canopies
- Steps and stairs
- Many accessories
- Shoreline work
- Riprap
- Dredging
- Barge work
- Rock drilling
- Piles
We specialize in installation, removal, and shoreline solutions for Door County and other Wisconsin waterways.
PWS provides sales, delivery, and installation of piers, lifts, and other waterfront equipment, and accessories. Call now to have your pier designed, built and installed for next season.
Pier and Waterfront Solutions will design and manufacturer custom-built docks and floating piers for both residential and commercial applications. Customized docks and piers require additional time for engineering, design and manufacturing. Ordering early will ensure your products are ready for spring waterfront activities.
The first step to enjoying your waterfront is getting there! Waterfront Steps and Stairs are a valuable property addition. They provide safe, convenient water access while enhancing aesthetics, and boosting property value. Besides design and manufacturing, most steps and stairs require installation planning and preparation of the site. Order now to transform your “water-view” property into a waterfront adventure.
Consider accessories to include when ordering you’re your pier:
Boat lift accessories: Winch motors, canopies, and solar charging systems.
Pier accessories: Benches, ladders, bumpers, and cleats will make your pier ready for family and friends.
Toy accessories: Paddleboard/ Canoe/ Kayak Rack and Personal water craft docks make space for children and grandchildren and their toys.
How PWS can help:
- Schedule a site meeting: consider the type of pier (three season, permanent, or floating), your lakebed, shoreline work, and the accessories you want installed. Review example drawings and photos of pier and waterfront configurations.
- Request a quote: Reach out to PWS to discuss your project and a firm price. Since it is currently November 2025, contact us as soon as possible to meet the timeline for your spring 2026 installation.
- Annual follow up service: Ask about annual installation and removal for the pier products you are interested in.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions is your single source for waterfront excellence. We handle everything from design to construction and after-care, so you can focus on effortless waterfront living and cherishing every magical moment on your pier.
Don’t settle for an ordinary pier. Let’s design your waterfront masterpiece together. Contact us today at 920-493-4404 for a free consultation and unlock the full potential of your waterfront property.
