DNR ISSUES NEW DOCK REGS

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources released its 2008 dock platform general permit on Wednesday. The permit says a platform can't exceed more than 120 square feet, 170 square feet including the walkway, and the walkway can't be wider than five feet. The permit is effective immediately. DNR Waters Divsion Manager Tom Hovey told the Brainerd Dispatch that owners of larger platforms can apply for a special permit. It would cost between $150 and $1,000 depending on its size, but owners need a good reason and Hovey said "I don't know of any good reason." The DNR will also issue a permit for an 'aquatic impact area' that could be no more than 50-feet of shoreline wide and extends into the water to a 4-foot depth. You can find the permit and other information on the DNR web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us, look for the Public Info button, then the Issues column and bring up the page titled 'Issues Related to Docks'.