An Official Website of the Commonwealth of Kentucky
This page details the requirements and procedures for obtaining permits for existing structures or for constructing new structures on and around certain Department-owned lakes. There are currently 11 lakes listed under this regulation that are owned by the Agency in deed or have a fishing access easement on the shoreline. It illustrates structures and their dimensions that adjacent landowners may legally build on Department-owned lakes and the buffer land around those lakes. These regulations are intended to allow additional lake access to adjacent landowners while limiting construction to ensure that erosion will not be a problem and that the natural beauty of the lakes and lands is not unduly affected. Please review the guide below if you are considering building or rebuilding a fishing access structure on any state-owned lake.
kdfwr PUBLIC MEETING Notice
KENTUCKY FISH AND WILDLIFE TO HOST A SERIES OF PUBLIC MEETINGS FOR INPUT ON POTENTIAL AMENDMENTS TO BOAT DOCK, SHORELINE USE REGULATIONS
FRANKFORT, KY. (Jan. 27, 2026) — Department officials are planning to recommend amending these permit regulations and will hold a series of public meetings to explain the current system and seek public input on potential changes.
Those unable to attend public meetings may still provide comments to the Boat Dock/Shoreline Use Working Group. Commenters should include their first and last name, the county and state of residence, and the organization represented, with the position held in the organization, if applicable.
Future meetings are planned for Beaver, Elmer Davis and Guist Creek lakes; Carpenter and Kingfisher lakes; and Lake Malone. Dates and locations will be announced.
ATTN: Boat Dock/Shoreline Use Public CommentKentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources1 Sportsman's LaneFrankfort, KY 40601
fwboatdocks@ky.govPlease use the subject line: "Dock/Shoreline Use Public Comment"