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Stamford, CT Environmental Rules: Boat Dock Permits (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governs
docks within the coastal boundary
Reviewing body
Zoning Board / Land Use Bureau
Exemption threshold
100+ feet from coastal waters
Statutory basis
CGS § 22a-109 (Coastal Management Act)
Currency
amendments through May 31, 2026

Summary

Building a residential dock in Stamford requires Coastal Site Plan Review by the Zoning Board because the zoning exemption for residential structures like docks only applies when the property sits over 100 feet from coastal waters or tidal wetlands.

Construction of new or modification of existing Structures incidental to the enjoyment and maintenance of residential property including but not limited to Driveways, swimming pools, tennis courts, docks and detached Buildings, provided that the affected property does not contain and is not within one-hundred (100) feet of coastal waters or any tidal wetlands, coastal bluffs, escarpments, beaches or dunes as defined in Section 22a-93 (7) CGS.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Section 9.A of the Zoning Regulations subjects every building, use, and structure within the state-defined coastal boundary to Coastal Site Plan Review before a Zoning Permit issues. Residential docks are listed among the structures that can be exempt, but only if the lot does not contain and is not within 100 feet of coastal waters, tidal wetlands, bluffs, or beaches: a test a functioning boat dock almost never meets. Applicants file a Coastal Site Plan Review application containing the information required by CGS Sections 22a-105 and 106, and the Zoning Board may hold a discretionary hearing and impose conditions.

Violations & Fines

The Zoning Enforcement Officer will not issue a Zoning Permit without an approved coastal site plan, and unpermitted construction is enforceable through orders, injunctive action, and penalties under the General Statutes and City Charter Section 248.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a boat dock in Stamford?
Almost always. The residential-structure exemption in § 9.A.1(j)(4) applies only if the lot is more than 100 feet from coastal waters, which a working dock is not.
Which board approves a Stamford dock's coastal site plan?
The Zoning Board, or the Zoning Board of Appeals when the approval is tied to a variance or special permit on a one- or two-family lot.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Stamford

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsErosion ControlSome RestrictionsFlood Elevation RequirementsSome RestrictionsFlood ZonesSignificant RestrictionsVehicle Idling RestrictionsSome RestrictionsStormwater ManagementSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: MicrochippingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Cat RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Mandatory Spay/NeuterSome Restrictions

All Stamford rules

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