Boathouses and covered docks
A roof keeps sun and pollen off the boat and gives you shade on the water. On this lake it also has specific limits on height, enclosures and upper levels.
Most owners who build on Smith Mountain Lake want at least part of the dock covered. Some want a simple roof over the slips. Others want a full two-level boathouse with a sundeck up top for watching the sunset. Both are possible, but the design has to fit inside the Shoreline Management Plan's limits.
How tall can a boathouse be?
| Item | Single-family limit |
|---|---|
| Flat roof | 19 ft maximum height |
| Pitched roof | 26 ft maximum height |
| Cupola | Up to 36 in |
| Enclosed storage | 72 sq ft inside, lower level only |
The survey drawings have to show height measured from the base elevation, along with length, width and roof overhang.
Can I have a sundeck on top?
Yes. A sundeck or party deck is allowed on the upper level instead of a pitched roof. What you can't do is put another roof over that upper deck to create a covered second story. Furniture is fine if it isn't permanently installed and can be moved in a flood.
What about enclosed rooms?
One enclosure of up to 72 square feet is allowed, measured inside. It has to sit on the lower level within the 12 feet of dock closest to the shoreline, and screened areas count as enclosures. It can't be used as living space, and sinks, showers, toilets and water lines aren't allowed anywhere on the dock.
Does the roof count toward my square footage?
The application asks for total square footage including roof overhang. A roof or cover that extends beyond the dock structure needs a permit, so adding a wider roof to an existing dock is something to check with Appalachian Power first.
Solar panels on the roof
Solar panels are allowed on dock roofs if they're angled so reflected light doesn't interfere with boaters or shine into neighboring properties. Your builder can position them with that in mind.
Pricing comes from the builder after a look at your lot, your shoreline and what's already there. We don't quote prices, and anything said over the phone before a site visit is only a ballpark.
Where we connect you with help
- Moneta
- Huddleston and the dam end
- Hardy and the Roanoke River end
- Union Hall and the Franklin County shore
Common questions
Can I add a roof to my existing open dock?
Often, if the result stays within the height and square-footage limits. A cover that extends past the dock structure needs a permit, so start with Appalachian Power.
Can I put a bathroom in my boathouse?
No. Sinks, showers, toilets and water lines aren't permitted on docks. A dock with three or more slips may instead need an adjacent restroom on land if state health guidelines require one.
Related services
More background: Smith Mountain Lake dock permit guide.
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.