Lakeshore Residents 

Welcome to the lake, where your adventure begins!

• I'm a lakeshore resident, what should I know?

  As a lakeshore resident, you will encounter changing environmental conditions, wildlife, recreational lake users (on most lakes) and governmental agencies.  Living adjacent to a naturally protected area means that you have privileges that other folks do not but you also have a responsibility to educate yourself and be good stewards of the environment.  Your actions have a direct impact on the water quality of your lake.  For answers to your questions, please reach out to Lakes&Stormwater@lakelandgov.net.

  Sooner or later, you may want to make some alterations to your property or the lakeshore. It is important to know that permits are required by the City of Lakeland for shoreline projects. Other local, state, and federal agencies may also require permits and have additional regulations. Please contact the Lakes & Stormwater Division (863-834-3300) or the City of Lakeland Building Division (863-834-6012) for more information on proper permitting procedures for shoreline projects

• Why is aquatic vegetation important?

  Native aquatic plants are an important part of the lake ecology. Plants play an important role in keeping the lake healthy by providing habitat and improving water quality. If you have questions about how you can properly maintain your shoreline, you can call the Lakes & Stormwater Division at 863-834-3300 or reach out to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). All aquatic plant management activities are regulated under the authority of FWC.   

• What is a Living Shoreline?

  A living shoreline is a protected, stabilized area at the water's edge created by using natural materials such as native plants and large rock like boulders or riprap. Unlike a concrete seawall, which interferes with the development of plants and animals, living shorelines grow over time and become a beautiful addition to the environment.

  This natural approach to stabilizing shorelines provides wildlife habitat and resilience to properties near the waterfront. These areas are sometimes referred to as nature-based, green, or soft shorelines. They are an innovative and cost-effective technique for shoreline management.

  credit - NOAA What is a living shoreline? (noaa.gov)

• Do I need a dock or seawall permit?

  Yes, building permits are required by the City of Lakeland for shoreline projects. Other local, state, and federal agencies may also require permits and have additional regulations.

  Without proper permitting, homeowners could face compliance issues, restoration requirements and significant fines

  Please contact the City of Lakeland Building Division or the Lakes & Stormwater Division for more information on proper permitting procedures for shoreline projects. 

  City of Lakeland, Building Division - (863) 834-6012

  City of Lakeland, Lakes & Stormwater - (863) 834-3300

  State and Federal agencies:

  Florida Department of Environmental Protection (Southwest District) - (813) 470-5700

  Southwest Florida Water Management District - (863) 534-1448

  Army Corps of Engineers - (904) 232-2568 or PublicMail.CESAJ-CC@usace.army.mil

   

   

   

• I have more questions.

  The Lakes & Stormwater Division can also provide helpful answers to questions about:

  • Lakes
  • Water Quality
  • Stormwater ponds
  • Aquatic Vegetation (Control & Maintenance)
  • Dock and Seawall Permitting Requirements for Lakeshore Property Owners
  • Various state and local agency contact information
  • Living shorelines

  As a lakeshore resident, you have privileges that other folks do not, but you also have a responsibility to educate yourself and be good stewards of the environment where you have chosen to live.  Your actions have a direct impact on the water quality of your lake.  For answers to your questions, please reach out to the Lakes & Stormwater Division at 863-834-3300 or Lakes&Stormwater@lakelandgov.net.