Boat lift permit

[Tyler]

Last year there was some discussion regarding if a permit from the state was needed for a boat or PWC lift. Long story short it indeed was.

I have heard that this is no longer the case, something about just a notification? Can anyone help me with this. Thanks.

[jimbob1603]

I'm in the middle of the process myself. :rolleye1:

Its the state that mandates all the requirements for any waterfront work.

A boatlift installation requires the Permit By Notification (PBN) application; provided the boatlift is:
1) Installed such that no additional boatslip is created by the lift
2) Is removed during the non-boating season
3) Located at least 20' from an abutting property line or the imaginary extension of the property line over the water
4) Installed in a manner which requires no impact that would necessitate further permit action

Visit their website: www.des.nh.gov/wetlands to obtain their booklet (in .pdf format) which explains the process. There are other applications which will work if the PBN process fails. The application fee is $100, plus whatever fees your town requires to process & forward the application; plus building permit fee.

Allow yourself several months for approval. The required paperwork can be intimidating; you may want to hire a consultant. Be patient, if it isn't approved by one type of application, try again with a different application. In an effort to protect the lakes, the DES will reject and/or deny any application for the slightest reason. Don't despair; you need to work with the system, not against it.

Or, if you get along with your neighbors, and are feeling confident; just install the damn thing. This is what many folks do, and it seems to work best.

[Onshore]

Your lift does need to be permitted. You can use a Permit by Notification Form, Minimum Impact Expedited or Standard Application Form. The state application fee is $100 dollars and by law the town may charge no more than $10 plus the cost of postage for handling the application. It should not take several months for you to get approval. Best way to save time, call (603)271-2147 and ask to speak with a member of the shoreline permitting staff, before filing.