Des Moines, IA Environmental Rules: Boat Dock Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Approving body
- City council
- Recommends first
- Plan & zoning commission, engineering dept.
- Waters covered
- Des Moines River, Raccoon River, banks
- Insurance required
- $1,000,000 general liability minimum
- Governing law
- Municipal Code Ch. 130, Art. III
Summary
Building a dock, pier, or other structure in the Des Moines River or Raccoon River, or driving pilings into the riverbed or bank, requires city council consent after review by the plan and zoning commission and engineering department.
No person shall construct anywhere in the Des Moines River or Raccoon River or upon either of its banks, within the city limits, any dock, building or structure of any kind or character or place any obstruction therein or thereon, either by driving piling into the riverbed or otherwise, without first obtaining the consent and permission of the city council after recommendation by the plan and zoning commission and the engineering department.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Des Moines Municipal Code § 130-57 bars anyone from constructing a dock, building, or structure of any kind, or placing any obstruction, including driven pilings, in the Des Moines River, the Raccoon River, or on either riverbank within city limits without first getting the city council's consent, granted after recommendation from the plan and zoning commission and the engineering department. Section 130-59 adds that no permit issues until the applicant files a certificate of general liability insurance naming the city as an additional insured, covering at least $1,000,000.00 for injury or property damage.
Violations & Fines
Constructing or maintaining a dock without council consent, or failing to remove an unpermitted obstruction on order, is a misdemeanor punishable by fine or a municipal infraction subject to civil penalty under § 130-111 (chapter 130 general penalty).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a dock in Des Moines?
Is liability insurance required for a dock permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Moines
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