Private recreational docks at Nacimiento Reservoir, San Luis Obispo County

The Monterey County Water Resources Agency updated the Dock Program in 2025. This program authorizes recreational docks and is managed by the Administration and Operations Divisions. It enables the Agency to regulate, inspect, and license all dock structures, including their anchorage or mooring systems, that are located on the surface of the reservoir or within the area subject to the flowage easement.

The Agency initiated its licensing and inspection program in 1972 to facilitate the recreational use of docks on the reservoir and to identify and address any potential safety hazards. It is the Agency's responsibility to ensure that all docks on the reservoir adhere to established licensing requirements. The program's ongoing monitoring and inspection efforts aim to mitigate safety risks and minimize environmental impacts.

Docks Situated Along the Shoreline

Docks along the shoreline may appear to be a significant feature for reservoir residents. However, there are specific laws, regulations, and procedures that must be followed when installing a boat dock. It is important to be informed about the appropriate process. For instance, a dock license must be obtained from the Water Resources Agency prior to constructing or installing a dock on a waterfront property or on land where permission has been granted by the property for mooring purposes.

Constructing or installing a dock must be done in accordance with applicable dock planning regulations. When submitting an application for a dock license, you will need to adhere to the standards outlined in the Agency's dock licensing and inspection ordinance. An application fee must be paid to obtain an initial license, which authorizes you to construct, maintain, own, operate, and use the dock on or within the waters of Nacimiento Reservoir. Please note that your dock must be licensed by the Agency in compliance with Ordinances 5344 and 4065 prior to any construction or use.

• Dock construction guidelines
• Ordinance No. 5344
• Ordinance No. 4065

Environmental Impact

While boat docks may appear harmless and unobtrusive, development along the shoreline can raise environmental concerns. Applicants must adhere to specific regulations when applying to construct a boat dock. For instance, the use of certain materials is being phased out; docks constructed with older products such as traditional wood framing are no longer permitted. Treated lumber is a concern due to potential leaching of contaminants into the environment. Alternatives to wood or treated wood include steel, fiberglass, and high-density plastics. Older docks with unencapsulated foam are prohibited; however, fully enclosed foam within hard-shell materials is widely available and commonly utilized by dock builders. Additionally, floats made from expanded polystyrene foam, commonly known as Styrofoam, can impact the reservoir environment if they degrade. Weather, activity, collisions, or corrosion can cause the foam to break down into microplastics, which may lead to significant environmental changes.

The Agency has observed an increase in debris, including bright blue and white foam, washing up on waterways, beaches, and shorelines over recent years. This foam, often used to support docks, contributes to pollution within the reservoir, as fragments accumulate and impact the environment. The Agency prohibits the use of unencapsulated foam or floats containing loose white foam beads. Docks featuring unencapsulated foam are typically older or have been abandoned, as many manufacturers no longer produce this type of flotation device.

To ensure environmental safety, all docks must be maintained, repaired, and constructed in a manner that prevents the use of polystyrene foam. Existing unencapsulated foam and loose foam materials must be removed and properly disposed of in accordance with applicable regulations. If you own a dock with unencapsulated foam, please plan to replace it with environmentally safer alternatives. Additionally, the sale of old docks containing foam is discouraged to reduce environmental impact. 

Lastly, a key consideration regarding floating docks is their potential impact on aquatic habitats. This concern can be addressed through proper dock management to minimize adverse effects on local wildlife and to maintain the natural beauty of the waterfront areas. It is important to preserve the scenic quality of the environment by ensuring that docks do not contain items indicative of habitation, such as grills, refrigerators, sinks, cabinets, stoves, or household furnishings. Additionally, carpeting is not permitted on deck surfaces. Only permanently installed canopies or roofs are allowed on docks; portable or temporary structures are not permitted. Implementing these measures will help dock owners protect the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems and preserve the natural surroundings.

Reservoir Levels

It is important to monitor fluctuating reservoir levels closely. Docks should be adjusted accordingly to water levels and prevent stranding. The current level of Nacimiento Reservoir can be viewed on the Agency’s website at http://www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/government-links/water-resources-agency/home/daily-reservoir-dam-data

Unsecured Dock Warnings

Please be advised that fluctuations in reservoir levels can impact the safety and security of your dock. When water levels decline, there is a risk of losing access to your dock. Conversely, rising water levels may cause your dock to become unfastened and potentially be carried away, turning it into floating debris that could cause damage to the dock itself, neighboring docks, or other structures.

In the event that your dock is not properly secured and becomes detached from its anchorage, you will be responsible for arranging its retrieval. Please note that retrieving loose docks requires the allocation of park ranger and other reservoir staff resources. Your dock is considered your personal property; if it is salvageable, you should take appropriate measures to retrieve it. If it is not salvageable, it is your responsibility to dispose of it in accordance with applicable regulations.

Authorities

Based on the recommendation of the Agency’s General Manager, the Administration Division and Operations Division are authorized to oversee the implementation of this dock program. The Administration Division is responsible for ensuring that dock licensees comply with the requirements for annual renewal, including maintaining liability insurance, fee payments, submitting photographs, as well as Notice of Sale, Release of Liability, and Planned Out-of-Water Forms. The Operations Division handles the initial licensing process, inspections, and any special studies. The terms and conditions of the licensing program are outlined in Ordinance No. 4065 and No. 5344.

The Agency is pleased to offer an online registration portal.  Please submit payments and all required documents via the online portal at https://apps.co.monterey.ca.us/wraboatdock/

Program Overview 

This program addresses activities related to floating dock structures on the waters of Nacimiento Reservoir, including: 1) regulation, inspection, and licensing of all dock structures; 2) assessment of a reasonable fee for licensing purposes; 3) identification and management of unlicensed structures—specifically those unlicensed for more than 30 days after notice has been issued, or structures that are unanchored, moored, or located on Agency-owned fee land—considered nuisances. The Agency reserves the right to take immediate action to remove or abate structures deemed nuisances. It is a misdemeanor to possess any unlicensed dock structure requiring licensing on Nacimiento Reservoir. Each violation is subject to a fine of $100 per day.

Dock License

Please find the application for a dock license from the Agency available here. 

• Application and Agreement for Boat Dock License on Nacimiento Reservoir (English) (Espanol)

A dock license application checklist is provided below to facilitate a consistent and complete application process by outlining the clear steps for preparing and submitting your materials. The checklist organizes all required items into clearly defined sections, ensuring thoroughness. It is comprehensive and intended to support and assist you throughout the application process.

• Checklist

Renewal of Dock License Fees

Please be reminded that dock license renewals are due annually on or before April 1st. To complete your renewal online, kindly click on the following link: https://apps.co.monterey.ca.us/wraboatdock/

Dock Insurance Requirements

The Nacimiento Reservoir is owned by the Monterey County Water Resources Agency. Therefore, the Agency must be listed as the "Certificate Holder" on your homeowner's insurance policy, with a minimum personal liability coverage of $500,000. As the Certificate Holder, the Agency will receive notification of any changes to your insurance policy. Please note that this arrangement might be unfamiliar to some insurance providers. If you or your insurance agent require further clarification, please feel free to contact the Dock Desk for additional information.

Are you planning to leave your boat dock out of the water?

If you intend to leave your dock out of the water, it is your responsibility to notify the Agency by submitting the completed Planned Out of Water form (Espanol) on or before April 1st. Failure to do so may result in applicable charges. 

Have you sold your dock? 

As the dock owner, it is your responsibility to promptly notify the Agency of the sale by completing the required Notice of Sale and Release of Liability form (Espanol) and submitting it accordingly. Until the Agency has received the completed for, you will remain responsible for all applicable fees and liabilities. 

Considering the purchase of a dock?

Please be aware that docks which are non-compliant (e.g., derelict condition, improper flotation, etc.) may not be eligible for a new license issuance. Additionally, dock licenses are non-transferable; therefore, new owners will be issued a new license upon acquisition.

Annual Dock Inspections

The Agency conducts annual inspections of docks to ensure compliance with Ordinance No. 4065, as well as applicable regulations and safety standards.

Inspection Notifications: If your dock passes inspection without any deficiencies, you will not receive further communication. Should your dock fail the inspection, a notice will be posted at the dock site, and you will be formally notified by mail. You will have 30 days to complete the necessary repairs. Following reinspection, if your dock remains non-compliant, your license may be revoked, and the dock will be required to be removed from the Reservoir at your expense. Non-compliant docks may also be subject to impoundment at the owner's expense.

Please find attached the comprehensive report of the 2025 dock inspection conducted by the Operations Division. The report outlines our findings pertaining to the current condition, safety compliance, and required maintenance for all dock facilities. We recommend that all dock licensees review the report carefully to address the suggested improvements in a timely manner. If you have any questions regarding the report or the recommended action items, please contact the Operations Division directly.

• 2025 Boat Dock Survey Data Collection and Findings Report

Application/Notification Procedures

The Dock Desk is available to provide assistance and address any questions you may have.  Please feel free to contact us via email at mcwater@countyofmonterey.gov or by phone at (831) 755-4860.