Houston Docks
- Thousands of satisfied customers
- Local and family owned
- +15 years in business
- Licensed and insured
- Always FREE Quotes
Licensed & Insured Dock Builder in Lake Livingston, TX
Since 2009, Houston Docks has designed, built, and repaired durable waterfront structures that stand up to Lake Livingston’s fluctuating water levels and storms. We’re local, family-operated, and fully insured, with OSHA-trained crews, NCCCO-certified operators, and Texas-licensed electrical partners for safe, code-compliant installs.
From custom docks and boathouses to bulkheads, lifts, and emergency repairs, we solve problems fast and build for the long term. Searching for Dock Builder Lake Livingston TX? We handle permits with the Trinity River Authority and USACE and back our work with clear warranties. Call us today for a free on-site estimate.
Dock Construction, Boathouses, Bulkheads, and Lift Services
We specialize in custom dock design and construction, boathouses, shoreline protection, and lift systems tailored to Lake Livingston conditions. Every project is engineered for durability, safety, and low maintenance.
Custom Dock Design
Get a dock designed around your shoreline, vessel, and lifestyle. We assess lakebed soils, fetch, and water level swings to recommend floating vs fixed systems. Materials include .60 pcf pressure-treated SYP framing, HDPE encapsulated floats, and composite decking like Trex or WearDeck with hidden fasteners. We integrate aluminum gangways, lighting, and GFCI-protected circuits designed by a Texas-licensed electrician and compliant with NEC guidance. Expect accurate elevations, durable hardware, and clean lines that boost property value. Learn more about our Custom Dock Design services.
Dock Construction
We build residential fixed and floating docks using a spud barge, pile driver, and vibratory hammer to set galvanized steel or timber piles to refusal or engineered depth. Cross-bracing, hurricane strapping, and stainless/galvanized fasteners deliver long-term rigidity. We stage with silt fencing where needed and keep work areas clean. Options include ADA-friendly rails and slip-resistant decking. Our crews have completed 1,800+ waterfront projects across the region with documented QC inspections. Learn more about our Dock Construction services.
Elevated Boathouse Construction
Protect your boat from waves and UV with single- or double-slip boathouses, optional rooftop decks, and metal or shingle roofing. We install cradle or sling lifts with cable retention systems and balanced beams for smooth lifting. Electrical disconnects, labeling, and bonding/grounding reduce risk and meet safety standards. We coordinate TRA permits, setbacks, and height guidelines to keep approvals smooth. Need a demo and rebuild after storm damage? We can help document scope for your insurer. Learn more about our Elevated Boathouse Construction services.
Boat & Jet Ski Lift Installation
From PWC platforms to 10,000–20,000 lb boat lifts, we size motors, gearboxes, and cradles for your hull and conditions. We install ELCI/GFCI protection, marine-grade wiring, and corrosion-resistant hardware. Add remote controls, canopy covers, and lighting for effortless launches day or night. We also retrofit, service, and balance existing lifts to extend life and reduce cable wear. Learn more about our Boat & Jet Ski Lift Installation services.
Bulkhead Installation
Stop erosion and protect your lot with engineered bulkheads. We install vinyl (PVC) sheet piling like ShoreGuard with concrete caps, deadman/tie-back anchoring, geotextile fabric, and drainage relief to prevent soil loss and wall bowing. For high-energy shorelines, we combine bulkheads with riprap revetments. Our barge-based crews handle replacements, tie-back repairs, and transitions to neighboring lines to keep property boundaries clean. Learn more about our Bulkhead Installation services.
Other Services We Offer
- Dock Repair
- Dock Re-Decking
- Dock Storm Damage Repair
- Emergency Dock Repair
- Dock Sealing & Staining
- Floating Dock Construction
- Fixed Pile Dock Construction
- Custom Residential Dock Construction
- Commercial & Marina Dock Construction
- Covered Slip Construction
- Floating Platform Installation
- Modular Dock Installation
- Wood Dock Construction
- Composite Dock Construction
- Vinyl Dock & Bulkhead Construction
- Aluminum Dock Construction
- Concrete Dock & Seawall Construction
- Steel Sheet Piling Installation
- Boat & Jet Ski Lift Repair
- Boat Ramp Construction
- Boat Ramp Repair
- Bulkhead Repair
- Piling Repair & Replacement
- Erosion Control Solutions
- Riprap Installation
- Retaining Walls for Waterfront Properties
- Seawall Construction
- Seawall Repair
- Trex Dock Installation
- TimberTech Dock Installation
- WearDeck Dock Construction
- ShoreGuard Bulkhead Installation
- EZ Dock Installation
- Float Replacement
Why Choose Us for Dock Building on Lake Livingston, TX
At Houston Docks, we combine local lake expertise with proven marine construction methods to deliver safe, long-lasting structures. Our team brings 15+ years of experience, OSHA training, and NCCCO-certified operators, supported by Texas-licensed electricians for compliant dock power. When you need reliable service, permitting guidance, and quality craftsmanship, we’re the partner you can trust for Dock Builder Lake Livingston TX projects.
Certified Team, Proven Methods
Our crews hold OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, and operate cranes under NCCCO guidelines. We follow PDCA best practices for pile driving and ABYC awareness for marine electrical interfaces. You’ll see the difference in our process: geotechnical checks, laser levels for elevations, and torque-verified fasteners.
We build with .60 pcf treated timber, galvanized steel piles and hardware, and composite decking from Trex, TimberTech, or WearDeck. Hidden fasteners, cross-bracing, hurricane strapping, and stainless fittings deliver a clean finish that resists corrosion and heavy use.
Permitting, Compliance, and Documentation
We handle permits and drawings so you don’t have to. That includes Trinity River Authority Lake Livingston Project approvals and USACE Galveston District Programmatic General Permit SWG-2007-00720 where applicable, plus county floodplain permits in Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity, or Walker counties.
We prepare site plans, pile layouts, and elevations, coordinate dredging near-dock reviews, and help respond to HOA/POA guidelines in areas like Cape Royale and Waterwood. You get a clear paper trail that speeds approvals and avoids rework.
Equipment, Safety, and Electrical Protection
We deploy a spud barge, vibratory hammer, pile driver, crane/boom trucks, and underwater inspection tools to install piles to engineered depth. Erosion controls and silt fencing are used as needed to protect water quality during construction.
For electrical, we design to NEC Article 555 principles, specify ELCI/GFCI protection, and bond/ground metal parts to reduce electric shock drowning risk. We label disconnects on docks and use marine-grade components for long-term reliability.
Local Results and Real Guarantees
In May 2024, we replaced a storm-damaged double-slip boathouse near Cape Royale with ShoreGuard vinyl sheet piling, concrete caps, and a 13,000 lb lift. Turnaround was 5 weeks from permit to completion, including insurance documentation and code upgrades.
Every project includes a workmanship warranty and maintenance guidance. We also offer seasonal inspections, re-decking plans, and emergency response after major weather events to keep your investment protected.
Marine Construction and Dock Services Across Greater Houston
Houston Docks proudly serves residential and commercial clients across Greater Houston and the Lake Livingston region. If you’re within a 30-mile radius of Livingston, Onalaska, or Coldspring, we’ve likely worked in your neighborhood. Our local crews offer quick site visits and responsive scheduling year-round.
Serving All Neighborhoods in Lake Livingston
We know the coves, points, and shorelines around West Livingston, Onalaska (77360), Point Blank (77364), Coldspring (77331), Goodrich (77335), Trinity (75862, 77320), Oakhurst (77359), and Livingston (77351, 77371). We understand TRA rules, typical wave action, and water level swings that influence floating vs fixed docks and riprap choices.
Whether you’re near Beacon Bay, Wolf Creek Park, Cape Royale, Waterwood, Patrick’s Ferry, or Indian Creek, we design for access, depth, and setbacks that comply with local guidelines. For fast, code-compliant service from a Dock Builder Lake Livingston TX homeowners trust, we’re ready to help.
Other locations we serve near Lake Livingston
- Houston
- The Woodlands
- Sugar Land
- Katy
- Pearland
- League City
- Pasadena
- Baytown
- Conroe
- Spring
- Missouri City
- Cypress
- Kingwood
- Humble
- Friendswood
- Texas City
- Dickinson
- Lake Jackson
- Alvin
- Fresno
- Cloverleaf
- Cinco Ranch
- Stafford
- Bellaire
- Manvel
- La Marque
- Pecan Grove
- South Houston
- West University Place
- New Territory
- Seabrook
- Sienna Plantation
- Santa Fe
- Richmond
- Greatwood
- Four Corners
- Tomball
- Freeport
- Webster
- Clute
- Galena Park
- Jacinto City
- Harris County
- Fort Bend County
- Montgomery County
- Brazoria County
- Galveston County
- Liberty County
- Waller County
- Chambers County
- Lake Conroe
- Lake Houston
- Lake Anahuac
- Galveston Bay
- East Bay
- West Bay
- Trinity Bay
- San Leon Bayfront / Dickinson Bay
- San Jacinto River
- Trinity River
- Brazos River
- Clear Lake
- Seabrook / Kemah waterfronts
- Galveston Island & Jamaica Beach
- Bayou Vista & Tiki Island
- Pasadena
- Pearland
- Atascocita
- Huntsville
- Channelview
- Friendswood
- Mission Bend
- Deer Park
- Alvin
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a permit to build a dock on Lake Livingston?
Yes. Most docks, piers, and boathouses require a Trinity River Authority (TRA) Lake Livingston Project permit. Many projects also fall under the USACE Galveston District Programmatic General Permit SWG-2007-00720. Depending on location, a county floodplain permit may be required. We prepare site drawings, pile layouts, elevations, and materials specs and submit on your behalf. We also coordinate HOA/POA approvals when applicable to keep your timeline on track.
Who regulates docks and boathouses on Lake Livingston?
The Trinity River Authority oversees the Lake Livingston Project, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Galveston District) regulates work in waters under its PGP framework. County floodplain administrators (Polk, San Jacinto, Walker, Trinity) may also be involved. We coordinate all agencies, provide responses to comments, and ensure your build adheres to setbacks, size limits, and environmental protections.
How long does it take to get a Lake Livingston dock permit?
Most permits take 3–6 weeks once complete submittals are in, though HOA approvals or complex shorelines can add time. We reduce delays with accurate drawings, photos, and specs, plus early coordination on dredging, electrical, and lift details. While permits process, we finalize materials, decking choices, and construction sequencing so your project starts promptly after approval.
What materials do you use for docks and boathouses?
We pair .60 pcf treated SYP framing with galvanized steel or timber piles, stainless/galvanized fasteners, and HDPE encapsulated floats for buoyancy. For decking, we often recommend composite options like Trex, TimberTech, or WearDeck. Boathouse roofs are typically metal panels; we also install aluminum gangways, marine-grade electrical components, and corrosion-resistant lift hardware to perform in Lake Livingston conditions.
How much does a boathouse or dock cost?
Costs vary by size, water depth, soils, decking, roofing, and lift specs. As a planning range, quality residential docks often start around $150–$250 per square foot; single-slip boathouses commonly range $45,000–$120,000+, and double-slips $90,000–$180,000+. We provide a detailed written scope with materials, pile counts, elevation targets, and allowances so you can compare apples to apples.
Do you build bulkheads and seawalls on Lake Livingston?
Yes. We install vinyl (PVC) sheet piling systems such as ShoreGuard with concrete caps, geotextile filter fabric, and deadman/tie-back anchors. For wave-prone areas, we combine bulkheads with riprap for added energy dissipation. Budgetary pricing can range $175–$350 per linear foot depending on height, soils, and access. We’ll evaluate your bank and recommend the right stabilization approach.
Are floating docks allowed on Lake Livingston?
Floating docks are common where water levels fluctuate or depths drop off quickly. TRA permits typically allow floating systems that meet construction, setback, and safety criteria. We’ll advise when floating vs fixed makes sense based on depth soundings, fetch, and access needs, then design gangways and anchoring to maintain freeboard and stability throughout seasonal changes.
What electrical safety is required on docks in Texas?
We follow NEC Article 555 principles and install GFCI/ELCI protection, proper bonding/grounding of metal parts, labeled disconnects, and marine-grade wiring. These measures reduce electric shock drowning risk. All electrical work is performed by a Texas-licensed electrician, and we test with GFCI/ELCI devices at commissioning. We also offer inspections and upgrades for older docks.
Do you assist with storm damage insurance claims?
Yes. We document damage with photos, measurements, and detailed scope writing, then propose code-compliant repairs or replacements. We can meet adjusters on-site, separate storm-related items from pre-existing issues, and recommend upgrades such as stronger tie-backs or composite decking. We also offer temporary mooring solutions to keep you operational during the claim process.
How deep do you drive pilings on Lake Livingston?
Pile depth depends on soils and loads. We typically drive timber or steel piles 8–16 feet into bearing layers or to refusal using a vibratory hammer or impact driver. Our crew verifies alignment with laser levels and secures cross-bracing for rigidity. Engineering, wave exposure, and lift loads inform exact spacing and embedment depth.