Boat docks in Union Hall and Franklin County
Dock work on the south side of the lake, where Franklin County holds most of the shoreline.
Union Hall is a census-designated place in Franklin County with 1,328 residents at the 2020 census. Its 18 square miles are nearly one-fifth water. Most of Smith Mountain Lake's south shore lies in Franklin County, with the Roanoke River as the line between it and Bedford County to the north, and a small part near the dam in Pittsylvania County.
Franklin County recording and permits
For lots in Franklin County, the signed Appalachian Power permit is recorded with the Franklin County Clerk of Circuit Court, and the application includes a check to that clerk. After Appalachian Power returns the permit, take a copy of it and the approved drawings to Franklin County for the building permit, then send the approved county permit back to Appalachian Power.
What people here ask for
- New docks on lots in newer subdivisions
- Covered slips and storage for weekend homes
- PWC ports and lifts
- Riprap and plantings where the bank is wearing
Check your plat first
The application requires the subdivision plat recorded with the circuit court showing your lot and the proposed dock, and printed county GIS maps don't count. If you're buying a lot to build on, ask for the recorded plat early so a missing one doesn't hold up your dock.
Common questions
Who records my dock permit in Franklin County?
The Franklin County Clerk of Circuit Court. The check for the recording fee goes in with the Appalachian Power application.
Do you also cover the Pittsylvania County shoreline?
Yes. Call with your address and we'll connect you with a builder who works near the dam end.
Services in Union Hall
- New boat docksFixed and floating docks sized to your frontage, your cove and the Shoreline Management Plan.
- Boathouses and covered docksRoofed slips, upper-level sundecks and storage built within the height and enclosure limits.
- Boat lifts and PWC liftsBoat lifts, PWC lifts and floating ports for new slips and existing docks.
- Dock repair and expansionsDecking, pilings, roofs, walkways and permitted expansions for older docks.
- Riprap and shoreline stabilizationRiprap and softer stabilization for banks that are undercut, bare or sloughing.
Nearby areas
Planning a new dock, a boathouse or a lift for the new boat?
Call now and a dock builder who works on Smith Mountain Lake will call you back to talk through your lot and the Appalachian Power permit.