Dock Removal & Replacement in Lenoir City, TN — Out with the Old, In with the New

Dock removal cost depends on dock size, access, and disposal. A small single-slip wood dock is straightforward to remove. A large multi-slip steel dock with a roof and boat lift requires more equipment and labor. If barge access to your shoreline is difficult, that adds to the cost. We include demolition, hauling, disposal, and site cleanup in the removal quote — no surprise disposal fees.

We strongly advise against DIY dock removal. Removing a dock requires a barge, cutting tools, and knowledge of how the structure is anchored. Underwater connections, rusted bolts that won't budge, and heavy framing that can shift unexpectedly make this a dangerous job. TVA also requires that removed docks be fully cleared from the lake — no debris left behind. We've seen DIY removals leave sunken lumber and hardware on the lakebed, which creates hazards and violates TVA regulations.

We haul everything away. Usable lumber and hardware go to recycling. Treated wood, old flotation, and non-recyclable materials go to a proper disposal facility. Nothing goes in the lake. If your old dock has components that still work — cleats, bumpers, hardware — we can sometimes reuse them on the new dock if they're in good condition, which reduces the replacement cost.

Usually yes. TVA Section 26a permits are tied to the specific dock structure. If you're replacing the dock with a new one of similar size and location, we file a permit modification. If the new dock is larger, in a different location on your shoreline, or has a different configuration, a new permit application is required. We handle the paperwork for both scenarios and confirm with TVA before starting construction.

Removal typically takes one to two days. The new dock construction timeline depends on the dock design — usually four to eight weeks from permit to installation, same as a standalone new dock project. If we can time the replacement during winter drawdown, removal is sometimes easier because more of the dock structure is above water. Total project time from signing to finished new dock is typically six to ten weeks.

Yes, and winter is often the best time for removal. The lower water level exposes more of the dock structure, making it easier to cut, disconnect, and load onto the barge. Weather is the variable — heavy rain, ice, or high winds delay the work. But if you're planning a spring replacement, scheduling the removal for winter drawdown gives us a head start on the new construction.