Seasonal Docks & Moorings

Seasonal docks and moorings are a common part of waterfront living, but they must meet provincial requirements to protect lake health and shoreline environments. Depending on your property type, you may need approvals from Alberta Environment and Parks or authorization from the County.

For broader guidance on protecting lake health and being a responsible shoreline resident, visit the Waterfront Living page.

How does this affect you?

If your dock and/or recreational mooring does not fall within the Provincial standard, you may be required to obtain authorization under a TFA from Alberta Environment and Parks.

How to Determine if you are Classed a Backlot, Waterfront, or Semi-Waterfront Dock Owner:

• Locate your property on DiscoverParkland. Determine your ownership type based on the Disturbance Standard.  
• If you have determined your ownership is Waterfront or Semi-Waterfront, your dock and/or mooring structure MUST comply with the Disturbance Standard, but you DO NOT require written permission from the County or Province. 

Backlot Ownership

Under the new standard, backlot owners are required to obtain a TFA for seasonal boat docks, lifts and swim platforms. As part of the TFA, written authorization from the waterfront owner is required. In many cases, your local municipality is the waterfront owner.

Steps for backlot owners to apply:

• Review the User Guide for Dock Authorizations (2021). The guide outlines the steps and requirements to obtain a TFA from the Province.
• Complete and submit the Seasonal Access to County Land Consent Application to the County for review and authorization. Completed applications can be emailed to landmanagement@parklandcounty.com or dropped off at the County Center office drop box. Include payment or invoicing information. Provide an image showing the area of County land that will be impacted, including the access point used to reach the dock or mooring location.
• Apply for a Temporary Field Authorizations (TFA) through the province.