Dock Builder in
Wilmington, NC
Custom docks, fixed piers, floating docks, boat lifts, and covered boathouses on the Intracoastal Waterway and Cape Fear Coast. CAMA permits managed. Licensed NC contractor, fully insured.
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What We Build on the Cape Fear Coast
Every dock and pier is custom-designed and engineered for your specific waterway, water depth, tidal range, and vessel requirements.
Fixed Piers
Permanent fixed piers on pressure-treated pilings, engineered for the Intracoastal Waterway and Cape Fear River. Built to CAMA requirements and NC coastal construction standards.
Floating Docks
Floating dock systems that rise and fall with the tide — ideal for locations with significant tidal range. Aluminum or composite floats with wood or composite decking.
Covered Boathouses
Fully covered boathouse structures with boat lifts, storage, and optional living space. Engineered for hurricane resistance and coastal NC wind loads.
Boat Lifts
Hydraulic and manual boat lifts installed on your existing or new dock. Keeps your hull out of the water, reducing fouling and maintenance. Sized for your vessel.
Fishing Piers
Custom fishing piers extending into the Intracoastal, Cape Fear River, or private water features. Built with pressure-treated pilings and composite or treated wood decking.
CAMA Permit Management
All coastal dock and pier construction in NC requires a CAMA permit. We manage the full application, agency correspondence, and approval process for your project.
What Cape Fear Coast Homeowners Say
“Forest built our 60-foot fixed pier with a floating dock section and 10,000 lb boat lift. The CAMA process was handled completely by them. Outstanding craftsmanship — it looks better than anything on the water near us.”
Bill & Carol H.
Wilmington, NC (Intracoastal)
“Had a covered boathouse added to our existing pier. Forest managed all the engineering and permits. The structure is solid, looks great, and was delivered exactly on budget.”
Frank D.
Wrightsville Beach, NC
“Our old dock was deteriorating. Forest rebuilt it completely — new pilings, new decking, new boat lift. The quality is exceptional and the project was done in three weeks after permits.”
Liz M.
Figure Eight Island, NC
Dock Builder FAQ — Wilmington, NC
How much does a dock cost in Wilmington, NC?
Dock costs in Wilmington range from $15,000 for a basic floating dock to $60,000+ for a covered boathouse with boat lift. A standard fixed pier on the Intracoastal Waterway typically runs $20,000–$35,000. We provide a detailed quote after assessing your waterfront.
Do I need a CAMA permit for a dock in Wilmington?
Yes. All dock and pier construction in North Carolina's coastal area requires a CAMA (Coastal Area Management Act) permit. Forest Outdoor Living manages the entire CAMA permit process — application, site plans, agency review, and approval.
How long does it take to build a dock in Wilmington?
CAMA permit approval takes 30–75 days depending on the scope and location. Once approved, dock construction typically takes 2–4 weeks. Total timeline from contract to completion is usually 2–4 months.
What type of dock is best for the Intracoastal Waterway?
Fixed piers on pressure-treated pilings are the most common and durable choice for the Intracoastal Waterway in Wilmington. For areas with significant tidal range (3+ ft), a floating dock or a fixed pier with a floating dock section is recommended.
Do you build docks in Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island?
Yes. We serve all of the Cape Fear Coast waterfront communities including Wrightsville Beach, Figure Eight Island, Landfall, Carolina Beach, Southport, and Holden Beach.
Can you add a boat lift to an existing dock?
Yes. We install hydraulic and manual boat lifts on existing docks, provided the structure is in sound condition. We assess your current dock and recommend the right lift for your vessel and water depth.
Ready to Build Your Dock?
Free consultation, CAMA permit management, no-obligation estimate. We respond within 24 hours.