Planning ranges by dock type and size
| Dock type | Compact (18×24 to 20×28) | Mid (24×28 to 26×32) | Full (28×32 to 32×32) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open dock + swim platform | $15,000–25,000 | $24,000–40,000 | $30,000–50,000 |
| Single slip, covered | $28,000–42,000 | $36,000–56,000 | $44,000–68,000 |
| Double slip, covered | $34,000–52,000 | $48,000–72,000 | $56,000–85,000 |
| Covered with upper sundeck | $45,000–75,000 | $55,000–90,000 | $65,000–110,000 |
Planning estimates, November 2026. No Lanier builder posts new-dock prices, so these come from national per-square-foot guides (Fixr, Jan 2025) scaled to Lanier dock sizes, deep-water anchoring and long walkways. Not a bid: your builder prices the dock your permit allows.
How we got there: about $30–50 per sq ft for an aluminum-frame floating dock on encapsulated floats with wood decking, plus a roof over the slip at roughly $38–48 per covered sq ft, plus $15,000–35,000 for a structure strong enough to carry a railed roof deck. Fixr's national figures are $15–40 per sq ft for floating docks and $15,000–50,000 for a double-decker (Fixr); Lanier docks sit at the deep, large end of that.
Add-ons
| Add-on | Planning range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boat lift | $5,000–15,000 | Depends on boat weight. Fixr's national range is $2,000–20,000 |
| PWC lift or drive-on port | $1,500–5,000 each | Two allowed outside the slip |
| Electrical service | $1,500–5,000 | GFI protection, buried line from the house, downward lights |
| Composite or PVC decking instead of wood | $4,000–12,000 | Less upkeep than wood |
| New gangway / approach walkway | $2,000–6,000 | Walkways run 16–40 ft on Lanier |
| Corps fee and dock drawings | $200–1,500 | Today's fee: ask the Lanier office |
| Remove and dispose of the old dock | $1,000–4,000 | Ranger signs off on where it goes |
Planning estimates, November 2026. No Lanier builder posts new-dock prices, so these come from national per-square-foot guides (Fixr, Jan 2025) scaled to Lanier dock sizes, deep-water anchoring and long walkways. Not a bid: your builder prices the dock your permit allows.
What used docks sell for
Pre-owned docks change hands on the lake all the time, which gives a floor. Martin Docks listed a 32×32 open dock with two 10×28 slips and a 40 ft ramp for $5,900 (listing). Marine Specialties lists used steel docks from $500 to $9,500 and a used 22×24 aluminum dock at $15,000 (used list). A used dock still has to fit your permit and pass the ranger's review, and moving it costs money.
What pushes the price up
- Size and roof. A full 32×32 has roughly twice the deck of a compact dock, and a roof over two slips is the biggest single line.
- An upper deck. Heavier framing, more flotation, stairs and rails all the way round.
- Water depth and anchoring. Your slip end needs 6 ft of water at full pool, and deep coves need longer cables or poles.
- Walkway length. Steep banks mean longer gangways and sometimes fixed steps.
- Decking and finishes. Composite, Ipe or aluminum decking, lights, storage boxes, swim ladders.
- Access. Docks are assembled at staging areas and floated in; a far cove adds tow time.
Comparing two dock quotes
Sources & further reading
- Fixr: cost to build a dock (updated Jan 2025). Per sq ft, covered and double-decker docks, lifts, ramps, removal
- Martin Docks: 32×32 open slip dock listing. Lanier resale price
- Marine Specialties: used docks and lifts. Lanier resale prices
- Lake Sidney Lanier Shoreline Management Plan (2004). Dock size limits
Editorial note: General planning information, not engineering or legal advice. Prices are estimates; confirm current rules with your local officials and a qualified pro.