Proposed Dock Standards - Part2 (Oct 17 2008)

DRAFT

Boat Dock, Pier and Boat House Construction Standards

DEFINITIONS:

A. Water Use and Access Easement: the lands enclosed on one side by the lakefront property line, on a second side by the waters of Lake Worth, and on the third and fourth side by two lines, each beginning at opposite ends of the lakefront property line and each being a projection of the side lot lines of each lot as shown on the plat of record.

B. Lake Worth Management Office (LWMO): that group in the Water Department responsible for permit review and approval for improvements at Lake Worth and adjacent properties. This group is under the supervision of the Lake Worth Coordinator.

C. Boat Dock Standards Board of Adjustment (BDSBOA): a nine (9) member board appointed by the City Council to review interpretations, special exceptions and variances of the provisions of this ordinance.

GENERAL PROVISIONS:

A. Boat docks approved under these regulations shall be for personal or family use and shall not be used for commercial activity.

B. Boat docks, piers, and boat houses shall be considered accessory structures. A primary structure must be present on the lot to which the boat dock/walkway is attached.

C. The maximum floor to area coverage allowed for boat docks, piers, boat houses and walkways shall be 25% of the area of the Water Use and Access Easement. Provided that every site regardless of the area of the Water Use and Access Easement shall be allowed a minimum coverage area of 1000 square feet and a maximum coverage area of 2500 square feet.

D. The minimum setback from a projected side yard line shall be based on the width of the property at the lakefront property line.

Lot Width Setback

Less than 50 ft. 5 ft.

50-69 ft. 10 ft.

70-99 ft. 15 ft.

100 ft. or more 20 ft.

E. Improvements may extend to a point 100 feet from the lakefront property line into the waters of Lake Worth regardless of the depth of the water at that point, or to the point at which the elevation of the land lying under Lake Worth is not greater than 584 feet above mean sea level, but in no instance to extend further than 150 feet from the lakefront property line into the waters of Lake Worth.

F. No structure shall occupy more than one third of the channel width and in no case shall extend more than 20 ft. from the centerline of the channel.

G. There will be no living quarters allowed on any boat dock, pier, boat house or walkway that extends over the lakefront property line.

H. Enclosed structures are not allowed. In order to protect a raised boat within a dock from the elements, solid sides on the boat house will only be permitted for a maximum of two (2) feet downward to the point where the ceiling joist meets the top plate. No additional materials (i.e. lattice, fencing, bars, screen fabric, doors, glass, etc.) may be installed below the two (2) foot sidewalls.

I. A contained storage area not exceeding 27 sq. ft. is allowed on the first floor (lower deck) of the structure for storing tackle, life jackets, etc. Products considered hazardous or which have warning labels prohibiting its use near public water supplies shall not be stored in these areas.

J. No toilet facilities of any type will be allowed on any structure built past the lakefront property line. A potable water supply can be plumbed to the first floor (lower deck) provided that required backflow prevention devices are installed and inspected in accordance with the Plumbing Code of the City of Fort Worth.

K. Fuel pumping facilities exceeding fifty-five gallons are not allowed on structures built that extend past the lakefront property line.

L. Structures shall be limited to a single story (lower deck) and a sundeck (upper deck). The floor of the lower deck shall be no less than the 596 foot elevation. The roof of a structure shall have a minimum of 6 in 12 pitch. The upper deck may not have a permanent roof or covering.

M. Any structure that extends more than 100 feet from the lakefront property line shall be equipped with a white photocell light of no less than 60 watts that operates continually from dawn to dusk. The LWMO may require that lighting be placed on structures less than 100 feet from the shoreline when in their opinion it is warranted to enhance boating safety. It is the dock owner’s responsibility to ensure that all required lighting is properly maintained and operational at all times.

VARIANCES AND SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS

A. Creation and appointment. There is hereby created a boat dock standards board of adjustment (BDSBOA), consisting of nine (9) members, all of whom shall be qualified electors of the City of Fort Worth. It is the declared policy that the city council will consider for appointment to the boat dock standards board of adjustment only those persons who have demonstrated their civic interest, general knowledge of the community, independent judgment, understanding of land use and planning and availability to prepare for and attend meetings. Preference will be given, where feasible, to appointees who possess knowledge or background in one (1) of the following fields:

1. Law;

2. Property development;

3. Building design; or

4. Mortgaging and financing.

B. Terms of office. The members of the BDSBOA shall be identified by place numbers one (1) through (9). The odd-numbered places shall expire on October 1 of each odd-numbered year and the even-numbered places shall expire on October 1 of each even-numbered year. BDSBOA members may be appointed to succeed themselves. Vacancies shall be filled for unexpired terms, but no member shall be appointed for a term in excess of two (2) years.

C. Organization. The BDSBOA shall hold an organizational meeting in November of each year and shall elect a chairman and vice-chairman for each panel from among its members before proceeding to any other matters of business. The Lake Worth Coordinator, or a designated representative, shall be the secretary of the BDSBOA. The panel of the BDSBOA shall meet regularly and shall designate the time and place of its meetings. The BDSBOA shall adopt its own rules of procedure and keep a record of its proceedings in accordance with the state statutes, this ordinance, and the City Charter. Newly appointed members shall be installed at the first regular meeting after their appointment.

D. Meetings and quorum. Seven (7) members of the BDSBOA shall constitute a quorum for the conduct of business. The members of each panel of the board of adjustment shall regularly attend meetings and public hearings of the BDSBOA and shall serve without compensation, except for reimbursement for authorized expenses attendant to the performance of their duties.

E. Decision by BDSBOA. The affirmative vote of seven (7) members of each panel of the board of adjustment shall be required to reverse or modify any order, decision or interpretation of this ordinance.

F. Staff responsibility. The Lake Worth Coordinator and any designated representatives shall be the regular technical advisors to the BDSBOA.

G. Attendance reports. Each month a report shall be submitted to the city council showing the cumulative attendance of each member with a notation of members who have been absent from three consecutive meetings, and a notation of the non-availability of alternate members to attend meetings for which called.

I. Powers and duties. The BDSBOA shall have the powers and exercise the duties of a board of adjustment in accordance with Sections 211.008--211.011, Texas Local Government Code. BDSBOA members are representatives of the city and shall have the right of inspection of premises where required in the discharge of their responsibilities under the laws of the State of Texas and the ordinances of the city. The board of adjustment's jurisdiction shall extend to and include the hearing and deciding of the types of appeals and applications listed below, and to that end shall have the necessary authority to ensure continuing compliance with its decisions. In addition, the BDSBOA shall have the authority to compel the attendance of witnesses necessary to its decision-making.

1. Interpretation. To render an interpretation of those provisions of boat dock ordinance where it is alleged that there is error in any order, requirement, decision or determination made by an official in the administration of such provisions. In reaching its decision, the BDSBOA shall establish firm guidelines for future administrative actions on like matters.

2. Special exception. To decide upon applications for special exceptions under General Requirements Section C

3. Variance. To authorize upon appeal in specific cases such variance from the terms of the General Requirements Sections D, E, F and I as will not be contrary to the public interest.

EMERGENCY USE BY PUBLIC AGENCIES: Dock owners shall allow the LWMO, law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and emergency personnel to access and use a dock for emergency purposes, without charge or other compensation, or liability for such use.

Problems with Part 1

Discussion of problems have been put in yellow text.
Problems include several easement violations and severe violation of property owner privacy rights.
********************************************************

*Chapter 36; added to read as follows:


DRAFT

Chapter 36
Docks, Piers and Boathouses


DEFINITIONS:

A. “Boat Dock, Pier, or Boat House”: a structure extending from the shore into the water to permit the landing and mooring of vessels. The term “boat dock, boat house” or “dock” includes the anchoring system and any walkways or bridges that will attach to the dock itself.
Problems:
1) Definition conflicts with rights granted in easement. This document erroneously implies structures can only be used in the support of boating activities. Easement clearly states that structure can be used for water recreational activities including the storage of boats.
2) Easement uses the words “dock” but never “boat dock.”
More Appropriate: “Piers, docks, and boat houses: structures used for ingress and egress to and from Lake Worth and for water recreational purposes including the storage of boats. These terms include the anchoring system and any walkways or bridges that will attach to the dock itself.”

B. “Walkway” or “Bridge”: a passage that provides access from the land to a boat dock, marina, or other floating facility.
C. “Dead Load”: the permanent inert weight of the dock structure, including fixed or permanent attachments, such as bumpers, railings, winch stands, roof structures, etc.
D. “Decking”: the surface material that forms the floor of the boat dock or catwalk.
F. “Flotation Live Load”: the total load that a dock can carry without capsizing or sinking. The flotation live load is equal to the dead load plus the live load.
G. “Habitable Structure”: any structure on a boat dock or catwalk, whether permanent or temporary.
Problems:
1) Far too ambiguous.
2) Not needed anyway.
Solution: Remove this definition.

H. “Hunt Absorption Test”: a test documenting the rate at which flotation material absorbs liquid, as well as the quantity of liquid absorbed.
I. “Live Load”: any moving or variable superimposed load on the boat dock.
J. “Registered Professional Engineer (RPE)”: a professional engineer currently registered with the State of Texas as a professional engineer with a specialization in civil or structural engineering and experienced in boat dock and pier construction.
K. “Sanitation Device”: any enclosure or equipment used as a toilet or bathing facility,
L. “Lakefront Property Line”: the property line that borders the waters of Lake Worth.
M. “Structural Live Load”: the weight of the dock itself and its ability to support itself.
N. “Working Load Safety Factor”: the ability of a boat dock anchoring system to hold or withstand loads. A safety factor of 3.0 means the anchoring system is rated to hold or withstand a load equal to three times the entire weight of the structure; e.g., if the structure weighs 1,000 pounds, the cable attached to the anchor will be able to hold 3,000 pounds.

Terms Needing Definition:
Lake Worth Management Office (LWMO)
RPE – need to add acronym to definition

3601 Permit Required

3601.1 . No person shall erect, construct, enlarge, alter, or move any dock, pier, boathouse or combination to any body of water within the corporate limits of Fort Worth, that is under the jurisdiction and control of the City of Fort Worth, without complying with the provisions of this chapter. Persons seeking to construct a boat dock must submit to LWMO two complete sets of project plans for the dock, including the anchoring system, and any walkways or bridges that will attach to the boat dock;
(A) When a dock will use existing facilities as part of the new proposed dock, the project plans must include a complete description of the existing facilities, and those facilities must comply with the specifications set forth in these regulations.
(B) The plans must be signed and sealed by a registered professional engineer (RPE), and contain a statement that the proposed dock complies with the specifications set forth in these regulations.
(C) Each plan set also must include a copy of the manufacturer’s certified plans for any components that will be a part of a dock, such as floats, decking, railing, or awning systems.
(D) Both engineered plans and manufacturer’s certified plans must be based upon the actual conditions at the site of the proposed dock.
(E) Upon approval of the plans by the Lake Worth Management Office the plans will be taken to the Fort Worth Development Department and a building permit (missing words).
3601.2 During construction of a dock, a complete set of all permits and approvals required for construction of the dock must be posted in a readily visible location at or adjacent to the construction site, and one complete set of the approved plans must be kept available at the construction site.
3601.3 Construction of a dock must be completed within six months of the date that the permit is approved by the permitting entity.
Problems:
1) The permitting entity already provides for a time limit and extension policy.
Solution: Remove.

3601.4 After a dock is completed, an RPE must submit to the Lake Worth Management Office a signed and sealed certification that it was built in accordance with the requirements set forth in these regulations and the plans submitted to and approved by the LWMO.


3602 Use.

3602.1 Boathouses shall normally be classified as a Group U Occupancy. Other occupancies may be allowed when the use is permitted by the Zoning Ordinance, together with the approval of any other appropriate department of the City of Fort Worth, and the construction complies with this code for said use.

3603. Design and Design Loads.

3603.1 Flotation devices for docks walkways, and bridges shall be designed to support the dead load plus 30-pounds per square foot (PSF) live load applied to deck area.
3603.2 Boat dock and dock structural frame shall be designed to support 50 pounds PSF live load applied to the full surface area of the deck.
3603.3 Roofs on docks shall have a minimum flotation live load of 12 pounds PSF and a structural live load of 15 pounds PSF.
3603.4 Walkways and bridges shall be designed to support a live load of 50 pounds PSF.
3603.5 Walkways and bridge handrails shall be designed to withstand a 200-pound load applied in any direction and at any point along the handrail.
3603.6 Walkways and bridges shall have a maximum slope under dead load of a 4:1 ratio in any direction at the lake level of 594ft. above sea level.
3603.7 Boat docks shall be able to withstand a minimum of four-foot high wave action at lake levels up to 601 ft. above sea level. Floating boat docks must be designed with anchorage footing and piers to remain in place without floating off at the 601 elevation..
3603.8 Boat docks, anchoring systems, and connectors, including cables and chains, shall be designed to resist wind loads per the City of Fort Worth Building Code requirements for residential structures.
3603.9 Cables and chains used in anchoring systems shall be designed with a minimum working load safety factor of 3.0 for cables and 2.0 for chains.

3604 - Dock and Pier Construction

3604.1 Piles. Wood piles shall be a minimum of six (6) inches in diameter. Metal piles shall be a minimum of three (3) inches inside diameter pipe Schedule 40. Such piles shall be driven to a minimum depth of twenty-four (24) inches below the top layer of silt. Such piles shall be driven in pairs, one on either side of the platform, and braced as required by section 3604.5. Such piles shall not be spaced apart more than ten (10) feet center to center.

3604.2 Box cribs. Sets of structural columns of the same size forming a box crib may be used. Such crib shall be braced as required in Section 3604.5 and anchored as required in Section 3605.

3604.3 Beams. Beams shall be defined as those members which connect to piles to support the stringers. All beams when of wood shall be a minimum 2-inch material.

3604.4 Stringers. Stringers shall be defined as those members usually supporting the decking. All stringers when of wood shall be of a minimum 2-inch material. Pipe stringers shall be a nominal 2-1/2-inch I.D. Schedule 40 and spaced not more than eighteen (18) inches O.C.
Problems:
1) This is a narrow stringer distance for a Group U structure.
Solution:
Set distance at 24 inches.


3604.5 Decking.

(A). Wooden platform decking shall be of a minimum nominal 2-inch material.

(B). Other materials, to include lightweight concrete or metal decking may be used when approved by the Building Official. Such decking shall meet the load requirements of Section 3603.

3604.6 Bracing.

(A) All wooden bracing shall be of a minimum nominal 2-inch material.

(B) Bracing shall be accomplished by one or more of the following methods:

1. Cross or “X” bracing. Cross or “X” bracing may be used on each set of pier and box cribs.

2. Beams may be used as bracing, provided the connections give sufficient support to resist horizontal forces equivalent to that of cross or “X” bracing.

3. Knee bracing. Knee bracing shall be used on each pier attached to and paralleling the platform deck. Pipe knee bracing shall be a nominal 2-1/2 inch I.D.
Problems:
1) Proscribing bracing is unnecessary. The engineering requirements have already resolved the horizontal wind loads.
2) There are other bracing solutions than those listed here that would be just as viable.
3) Technology advances may provide additional solutions in the future.
Solution: Remove

3604.7 Attachment of deck. Attachment of the platform deck to beams and piles shall be accompanied by one or more of the following methods:

(A). By attaching the beams to the piles and box cribs by lag bolts.

(B). By caps: Wood caps shall be a minimum nominal 4-inch material and anchored by bolts and welded.
Problems:
1) Proscribing attachments are unnecessary. The design requirements have already resolved this issue.
2) There are other attachment solutions than those listed here that would be just as viable.
3) Technology advances may provide additional solutions in the future.
Solution: Remove

3605. Anchorage of Floatation and Box Crib Structures.

3605.1 Such structures shall be anchored with solid units that will provide the following anchorage:

(A). Docks and piers less than fifty (50) feet in length: An anchor on each corner that will support one-fourth of the total dead load plus one-eight the total live load.

1. Docks and piers fifty (50) feet or more in length: Anchors at the midpoint of the piers.


2. All docks and piers shall be anchored to the shore line.

3. All anchors shall be of masonry, concrete, or steel and shall be securely fastened to the dock or pier by wire rope, cable, chain, or other approved methods.

3606. Required Water Proofing.

3606.1 All wood below one (1) foot above spillway elevation on lakes or below one (1) foot above the 50-year flood elevations on other bodies of water shall be treated lumber. Creosote is not allowed.
Problem:
1) Requires additional calculation by homeowner.
More Appropriate: “All wood below 601 elevation shall be treated lumber.”

3606.2 All metal, including bolts, lag bolts, and fasteners, shall be galvanized or painted with paints of similar materials approved for immersion in water.

3607 Flotation Material

3607.1 Flotation material shall be extruded polystyrene, expanded polystyrene, or a copolymer of polyethylene and polystyrene and shall have a minimum density of 0.9 pounds per cubic foot, and be of consistent quality throughout the float. Beads shall be firmly fused together, and there shall be no voids inside the encasement. Flotation material shall have a water rate absorption of less than 3.0 pounds per cubic foot over 7 days when tested by the Hunt Absorption Test. Other flotation material may be considered if it meets all of the requirements set forth in this section.
3607.2 Flotation material shall be encased in solid polyethylene or a polyurethane type coating, both of which shall be watertight and have a nominal thickness of .125 inches.
3607.3 Drums made of plastic, whether new or recycled, or metal shall not be used for encasements or floats.
3607.4 All floats shall be warranted for a minimum of eight years against sinking, becoming waterlogged, cracking, peeling, fragmenting, or losing beads, and shall not be prone to damage by animals.
3607. 5 Floats that are punctured, exposing the foam to erosion or deterioration, shall be replaced immediately.


3608. Boat House Construction.

3608.1 Construction of boathouses or other structures shall meet or exceed the requirements for framing and coverage as specified in other parts of this code. When, in the opinion of the Building Official, the load of the intended use exceeds the capability of the minimum construction design specified in Section 3604, plans and specification may be required to be designed by an engineer registered in the State of Texas.

3609. Inspections, Removal for Violations.

3609.1 Docks may be subject to inspection by the LWMO or its authorized agents, without notice, at reasonable times.
Problems: (Severely violates rights to privacy.)
1) Violates “exclusive use” granted by easement - “The waters of Lake Worth, except that such use shall be nonexclusive except for such piers and docks constructed thereon.”
2) Violates the Constitution of the United States which protects citizens against unlawful search and seizure.
3) The LWMO (or any citizen for that matter) may use the lake as they wish. Inspections from the lake does not need additional authority.
Solution: Remove

3609.2 Dock owners and boat docks must comply with these regulations and any requirements contained in a permit at all times.
3609.3 Failure to complete inspections, follow inspection guidelines set forth above, or to correct any violations of these rules within thirty days of receipt of written notice, may result in the division or permitting entity requiring removal of the dock at the dock owner’s expense.
Problems:
1) Gives undue authority to LWMO agent.
2) Resolution authority for violations already exists in the permitting and code inspection departments.
Solution: Remove
3609.4 The division or permitting entity may remove docks that become hazards to navigation at the dock owner’s expense.
3609.5 When a boat dock is removed for any reason whatsoever, including at the initiative of the dock owner or at the direction of the LWMO, the dock owner shall be responsible for the complete removal of the entire dock including the boat dock, walkway, anchoring system, cables, floats, and any other related components or materials installed in conjunction with the construction, maintenance, or use of the dock.
Problems:
1) Implies LWMO has sole authority to authorize removal of docks and seizure of property without due process.
Solution: Remove portion of sentence.

Proposed Dock Standards - Part1 (Oct 17 2008)

*Chapter 36; added to read as follows:

DRAFT

Chapter 36

Docks, Piers and Boathouses

DEFINITIONS:

A. “Boat Dock, Pier, or Boat House”: a structure extending from the shore into the water to permit the landing and mooring of vessels. The term “boat dock, boat house” or “dock” includes the anchoring system and any walkways or bridges that will attach to the dock itself.

B. “Walkway” or “Bridge”: a passage that provides access from the land to a boat dock, marina, or other floating facility.

C. “Dead Load”: the permanent inert weight of the dock structure, including fixed or permanent attachments, such as bumpers, railings, winch stands, roof structures, etc.

D. “Decking”: the surface material that forms the floor of the boat dock or catwalk.

F. “Flotation Live Load”: the total load that a dock can carry without capsizing or sinking. The flotation live load is equal to the dead load plus the live load.

G. “Habitable Structure”: any structure on a boat dock or catwalk, whether permanent or temporary.

H. “Hunt Absorption Test”: a test documenting the rate at which flotation material absorbs liquid, as well as the quantity of liquid absorbed.

I. “Live Load”: any moving or variable superimposed load on the boat dock.

J. “Registered Professional Engineer”: a professional engineer currently registered with the State of Texas as a professional engineer with a specialization in civil or structural engineering and experienced in boat dock and pier construction.

K. “Sanitation Device”: any enclosure or equipment used as a toilet or bathing facility,

L. “Lakefront Property Line”: the property line that borders the waters of Lake Worth.

M. “Structural Live Load”: the weight of the dock itself and its ability to support itself.

N. “Working Load Safety Factor”: the ability of a boat dock anchoring system to hold or withstand loads. A safety factor of 3.0 means the anchoring system is rated to hold or withstand a load equal to three times the entire weight of the structure; e.g., if the structure weighs 1,000 pounds, the cable attached to the anchor will be able to hold 3,000 pounds.

3601 Permit Required

3601.1 . No person shall erect, construct, enlarge, alter, or move any dock, pier, boathouse or combination to any body of water within the corporate limits of Fort Worth, that is under the jurisdiction and control of the City of Fort Worth, without complying with the provisions of this chapter. Persons seeking to construct a boat dock must submit to LWMO two complete sets of project plans for the dock, including the anchoring system, and any walkways or bridges that will attach to the boat dock;

(A) When a dock will use existing facilities as part of the new proposed dock, the project plans must include a complete description of the existing facilities, and those facilities must comply with the specifications set forth in these regulations.

(B) The plans must be signed and sealed by a registered professional engineer (RPE), and contain a statement that the proposed dock complies with the specifications set forth in these regulations.

(C) Each plan set also must include a copy of the manufacturer’s certified plans for any components that will be a part of a dock, such as floats, decking, railing, or awning systems.

(D) Both engineered plans and manufacturer’s certified plans must be based upon the actual conditions at the site of the proposed dock.

(E) Upon approval of the plans by the Lake Worth Management Office the plans will be taken to the Fort Worth Development Department and a building permit

3601.2 During construction of a dock, a complete set of all permits and approvals required for construction of the dock must be posted in a readily visible location at or adjacent to the construction site, and one complete set of the approved plans must be kept available at the construction site.

3601.3 Construction of a dock must be completed within six months of the date that the permit is approved by the permitting entity.

3601.4 After a dock is completed, an RPE must submit to the Lake Worth Management Office a signed and sealed certification that it was built in accordance with the requirements set forth in these regulations and the plans submitted to and approved by the LWMO.

3602 Use.

3602.1 Boathouses shall normally be classified as a Group U Occupancy. Other occupancies may be allowed when the use is permitted by the Zoning Ordinance, together with the approval of any other appropriate department of the City of Fort Worth, and the construction complies with this code for said use.

3603. Design and Design Loads.

3603.1 Flotation devices for docks walkways, and bridges shall be designed to support the dead load plus 30-pounds per square foot (PSF) live load applied to deck area.

3603.2 Boat dock and dock structural frame shall be designed to support 50 pounds PSF live load applied to the full surface area of the deck.

3603.3 Roofs on docks shall have a minimum flotation live load of 12 pounds PSF and a structural live load of 15 pounds PSF.

3603.4 Walkways and bridges shall be designed to support a live load of 50 pounds PSF.

3603.5 Walkways and bridge handrails shall be designed to withstand a 200-pound load applied in any direction and at any point along the handrail.

3603.6 Walkways and bridges shall have a maximum slope under dead load of a 4:1 ratio in any direction at the lake level of 594ft. above sea level.

3603.7 Boat docks shall be able to withstand a minimum of four-foot high wave action at lake levels up to 601 ft. above sea level. Floating boat docks must be designed with anchorage footing and piers to remain in place without floating off at the 601 elevation..

3603.8 Boat docks, anchoring systems, and connectors, including cables and chains, shall be designed to resist wind loads per the City of Fort Worth Building Code requirements for residential structures.

3603.9 Cables and chains used in anchoring systems shall be designed with a minimum working load safety factor of 3.0 for cables and 2.0 for chains.

3604 - Dock and Pier Construction

3604.1 Piles. Wood piles shall be a minimum of six (6) inches in diameter. Metal piles shall be a minimum of three (3) inches inside diameter pipe Schedule 40. Such piles shall be driven to a minimum depth of twenty-four (24) inches below the top layer of silt. Such piles shall be driven in pairs, one on either side of the platform, and braced as required by section 3604.5. Such piles shall not be spaced apart more than ten (10) feet center to center.

3604.2 Box cribs. Sets of structural columns of the same size forming a box crib may be used. Such crib shall be braced as required in Section 3604.5 and anchored as required in Section 3605.

3604.3 Beams. Beams shall be defined as those members which connect to piles to support the stringers. All beams when of wood shall be a minimum 2-inch material.

3604.4 Stringers. Stringers shall be defined as those members usually supporting the decking. All stringers when of wood shall be of a minimum 2-inch material. Pipe stringers shall be a nominal 2-1/2-inch I.D. Schedule 40 and spaced not more than eighteen (18) inches O.C.

3604.5 Decking.

(A). Wooden platform decking shall be of a minimum nominal 2-inch material.

(B). Other materials, to include lightweight concrete or metal decking may be used when approved by the Building Official. Such decking shall meet the load requirements of Section 3603.

3604.6 Bracing.

(A) All wooden bracing shall be of a minimum nominal 2-inch material.

(B) Bracing shall be accomplished by one or more of the following methods:

1. Cross or “X” bracing. Cross or “X” bracing may be used on each set of pier and box cribs.

2. Beams may be used as bracing, provided the connections give sufficient support to resist horizontal forces equivalent to that of cross or “X” bracing.

3. Knee bracing. Knee bracing shall be used on each pier attached to and paralleling the platform deck. Pipe knee bracing shall be a nominal 2-1/2 inch I.D.

3604.7 Attachment of deck. Attachment of the platform deck to beams and piles shall be accompanied by one or more of the following methods:

(A). By attaching the beams to the piles and box cribs by lag bolts.

(B). By caps: Wood caps shall be a minimum nominal 4-inch material and anchored by bolts and welded.

3605. Anchorage of Floatation and Box Crib Structures.

3605.1 Such structures shall be anchored with solid units that will provide the following anchorage:

(A). Docks and piers less than fifty (50) feet in length: An anchor on each corner that will support one-fourth of the total dead load plus one-eight the total live load.

1. Docks and piers fifty (50) feet or more in length: Anchors at the midpoint of the piers.

2. All docks and piers shall be anchored to the shore line.

3. All anchors shall be of masonry, concrete, or steel and shall be securely fastened to the dock or pier by wire rope, cable, chain, or other approved methods.

3606. Required Water Proofing.

3606.1 All wood below one (1) foot above spillway elevation on lakes or below one (1) foot above the 50-year flood elevations on other bodies of water shall be treated lumber. Creosote is not allowed.

3606.2 All metal, including bolts, lag bolts, and fasteners, shall be galvanized or painted with paints of similar materials approved for immersion in water.

3607 Flotation Material

3607.1 Flotation material shall be extruded polystyrene, expanded polystyrene, or a copolymer of polyethylene and polystyrene and shall have a minimum density of 0.9 pounds per cubic foot, and be of consistent quality throughout the float. Beads shall be firmly fused together, and there shall be no voids inside the encasement. Flotation material shall have a water rate absorption of less than 3.0 pounds per cubic foot over 7 days when tested by the Hunt Absorption Test. Other flotation material may be considered if it meets all of the requirements set forth in this section.

3607.2 Flotation material shall be encased in solid polyethylene or a polyurethane type coating, both of which shall be watertight and have a nominal thickness of .125 inches.

3607.3 Drums made of plastic, whether new or recycled, or metal shall not be used for encasements or floats.

3607.4 All floats shall be warranted for a minimum of eight years against sinking, becoming waterlogged, cracking, peeling, fragmenting, or losing beads, and shall not be prone to damage by animals.

3607. 5 Floats that are punctured, exposing the foam to erosion or deterioration, shall be replaced immediately.

3608. Boat House Construction.

3608.1 Construction of boathouses or other structures shall meet or exceed the requirements for framing and coverage as specified in other parts of this code. When, in the opinion of the Building Official, the load of the intended use exceeds the capability of the minimum construction design specified in Section 3604, plans and specification may be required to be designed by an engineer registered in the State of Texas.

3609. Inspections, Removal for Violations.

3609.1 Docks may be subject to inspection by the LWMO or its authorized agents, without notice, at reasonable times.

3609.2 Dock owners and boat docks must comply with these regulations and any requirements contained in a permit at all times.

3609.3 Failure to complete inspections, follow inspection guidelines set forth above, or to correct any violations of these rules within thirty days of receipt of written notice, may result in the division or permitting entity requiring removal of the dock at the dock owner’s expense.

3609.4 The division or permitting entity may remove docks that become hazards to navigation at the dock owner’s expense.

3609.5 When a boat dock is removed for any reason whatsoever, including at the initiative of the dock owner or at the direction of the LWMO, the dock owner shall be responsible for the complete removal of the entire dock including the boat dock, walkway, anchoring system, cables, floats, and any other related components or materials installed in conjunction with the construction, maintenance, or use of the dock.

Love Circle Park - Diamond In the Rough

(See current pictures of park below this article - October 2008.)

Long neglected, Love Circle Park represents one of Fort Worth's most spectacular opportunities for neighborhood park development. The dedicated 80 acre park sits conveniently on Jacksboro Highway next to the Fort Worth Nature Center. The park's large footprint and centuries-old trees hint at wonderful opportunities for a unique public space. Creative uses might include a much needed nature-based jogging track for Fort Worth's running enthusiasts.

A business offering driving range and batting practice areas formerly used the land. The failed enterprise left an extensive mess including scattered piles of garbage, scum-filled batting cages, rotting buildings, abandoned light poles, and unsightly piles of dirt. The debris poses significant health and injury hazards to the public as well as an attractive nuisance to neighborhood children. The batting cage area holds a large pond of filthy stagnant water. The buildings sit open to the frequent visits of vandals and perilous curiosity of neighborhood children. The elements course through large holes in the ceilings, floors, and walls of the structures. Piles of garbage include sharp metal, broken toilets, and wood brandishing rusty nails. The weedy and poorly maintained fields sway with tall, chigger-infested Johnson grass, night shade, and stickers making any enjoyable public use all but impossible.

The Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association has begun working closely with neighbors living around the park to bring new life to this neighborhood treasure. The parks department has been notified of our intentions to move forward and will soon assign a parks employee to begin assisting us through the process. A series of neighborhood meetings will be held so everyone can make their voices heard and participate in the decision-making process.

Coincidentally and fortuitously, a study called the Lake Worth Vision will soon be conducted by the city to coordinate all the assets around the Lake Worth into a comprehensive plan for a world-class recreational area. The Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association looks forward to dovetailing the renovation of Love Circle park within this project. With imagination and hard work, we believe that Love Circle Park can move from being a "diamond in the rough" to a spectacular jewel of the Lake Worth Vision.

The pictures below document the park's (current) deplorable condition.

Sincerely,
Michael Dallas
President of The Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association

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CURRENT PARK PICTURES BELOW (OCTOBER 2008)

Here are pictures of the debris left from the old driving range.





The current "greens" of the old golf course.









Enormous piles of dirt.







Abandoned tanks.








An abandoned golf "club house."








Large piles of trash and debris.


















Trash and debris inside the "club house."












More debris in the "club house."

Daylight through the "club house" roof.

More debris inside the "club house."









Batting cage practice area.

Batting cage restrooms and workshop.








Batting cage workshop full of garbage.

Batting cage restrooms have been vandalized.








Batting cage area.









Stagnant water in the batting cage.





















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Love Circle Park Potential

The 80 acre dedicated park has enormous potential to be an asset to the entire city of Fort Worth. It's large oblong footprint along with mature trees and abundant wildlife has the potential for a variety of uses including a much needed jogging area embedded in a natural setting.

New Dock Regs - Where the Problems Lie

My goals for the dock regulations are to preserve our enjoyment of ownership and protect our property values.

Specifically:
1) Owners should be able to build an nice dock as long as it fits in the easement and does not obstruct access (as stated in the easement language).
2) Owners should be at liberty to build the dock of his/her choice with maximum latitude.
3) Unnecessary rules, intrusive inspections, and additional fees detract from owners' enjoyment and make Lake Worth properties less desirable and less valuable.

Michael Dallas
President of the Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association
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My thoughts on the Current Proposal:

Here is a breakdown of each item in the proposed ordinance. Some items are already regulated. Some items seem to have general agreement. Other items do not have agreement and need more discussion to reach a consensus.

Items that are already regulated:
(These items are already proscribed in other existing legal documents. Reiteration of these items in the dock ordinance should be for information or clarification only and should reference the proper regulatory document so as to not cause conflict.)
1) Distance from shoreline (100/150-584' elevation) - Deeded easement
2) No toilet facilities - Building code
3) Encapsulated flotation - Building code
4) Permit fee - Building code
5) Construction time frame - Building code
6) Fuel dispensing facilities - Building code

Items that seem to have agreement:
1) Contractor liability coverage required
2) Potable water supply allowed with backflow prevention
3) Maximum of two stories
4) Dock lighting required for docks over 100' long
5) Total number of facilities (i.e. docks on property) is only limited by the total FLAR
6) Color of improvements is not regulated
7) No bonding requirements (of contractor or owner)
8) No requirement for adjacent owners' permissions

Items that do not have agreement:
1) Living quarters not allowed - The definition of "living quarters" and reasons for a prohibition are not clear.

2) Boathouses are being disallowed by two restrictions - These prohibitions would violate the property owners' deeded easement rights.
The two proposed provisions that violate the deeded easement are:
-- a) "Enclosed structures not allowed"
-- b) "Enclosed storage area maximum of 27sf"

3) Specific building materials are being required - New and better materials become available over time. In addition to listing specific materials, set the criteria that alternative materials must meet.

4) Minimum roof pitch of 6 in 12 - this is 45'. It's not clear why we need a provision for roof pitch.

5) Size Restrictions - The FLAR "method" (Floor to Area Ratio - i.e. how much of the easement may be covered by dock) of calculating size limit is adequate but there is disagreement on specifics.
Concerns:
-- a) The FLAR percentage under consideration (25%) is substantially too small.
-- b) Under a FLAR, small lot owners may be prohibited from building adequate docks on their easements.
Recommendations:
-- a) Use a 40% FLAR
-- b) Walkways up to 8' width should be excluded from the FLAR to encourage larger (i.e. safer) walkways.
-- c) Docks under 1000sf are not subject to FLAR or setback requirements.
The only two requirements for docks 1000sf or less are:
------(1) The structure must fit within the easement.
------(2) The structure must not obstruct access (as stated in the deed).

6) Side building lines (i.e. setbacks from easement) 5ft to 20ft - a variable setback is unacceptable. State a minimum setback that prevents obstruction (as stated by the deed).
Recommendations:
--- a) Setbacks should only apply to docks >1000
--- b) Setbacks should be 7ft from easement border and 14 foot from adjacent structure.

The City's Proposal

Here are several PowerPoint slides that outline the city's proposal on limiting size.

Note: FLAR is "Floor to Area Ratio" - In essence, it is the percentage of the easement that the dock's footprint can occupy. The 25%, 35%, and 40% examples are shown below.

(Click each picture to see a bigger image of the proposed regulations.)

Minutes 9/13/2008

Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association Board Meeting Minutes 9/13/08

Michael Dallas, Deanne Kearney, Debbie Ballard present. Brian Keller absent.

Discussed dock meetings to date including SSNA meeting with Paul Bounds. The next public dock meeting will be publicized at SSNA general meeting in Oct.

The October SSNA general meeting agenda items and details were discussed. Meeting to be held in Ballard’s backyard.

ACTION: Michael to draft several emails announcing the meeting for distribution. Michael to distribute flyers by 9/27/08 to neighborhood announcing meeting. Deanne to put up signs announcing meeting by 9/20/08.

Next meeting October 4th, general neighborhood meeting.

Island View Park Vandalized by Mowers - 5/23/08

A neighbor's surveillance camera caught pictures of the mowing crew that damaged Island View Park. Click the images below to view bigger pictures:

Here are pictures of the damage that was done to Island View Park. Click the images below to view bigger pictures:










May 23, 2008, Island View Park - What was supposed to be routine mowing turned into gross vandalism. The crew that “mowed” the area today carved deep gouges throughout park and seriously damaged 47 trees. The damage is so extensive, that had it been done by a citizen, the perpetrator should have been arrested for vandalism.

Gale Cupp, Fort Worth Parks Board member and steering committee chair of the Neighborhood Association of South Lake Worth, was sent a letter with pictures.

You can view the pictures of the damage by clicking each of the image sets above.

The letter to Ms. Cupp appears below:

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May 23, 2008

Gale Cupp
Board Member
Fort Worth Parks Board

Dear Ms. Cupp:

I am writing about an event that occurred in Island View Park today. What was supposed to be routine mowing turned into gross vandalism. The crew that “mowed” the area today carved deep gouges throughout park and seriously damaged 47 trees. The damage is so extensive, that had it been done by a citizen, the perpetrator would have been arrested for vandalism.

Earlier today, I happened to pass by the park. I noticed that the driver of the tractor seemed to be driving too fast and very erratic. When I surveyed the park later in the day, I found that the driver had caused extensive damage. Please have someone from the parks department survey the damage at Island View Park immediately.

At this point, I have three fears. First, I am afraid that if this type of abuse continues in Island View Park, no trees will survive. Second, I am fearful that that damage done today will cause some of the trees to die anyway. As you know, this side of town has extensive problems with oak wilt and other tree diseases. Open wounds on 47 trees puts them at risk for developing disease. I would ask that you have a professional arborist tend the trees. Third, I am afraid this crew is moving throughout our city, damaging other parks.

For your convenience, I have included pictures of 47 wounded trees (none appear twice) and the deep gouges that were excavated throughout the park (these really must be seen to be believed).

I want to thank you for the years you have invested in improving and overseeing the beautiful system of parks in Fort Worth. Our great city needs more people like you.

Sincerely,

Michael Dallas
President
Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association

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Minutes 4/27/2008 - Board Meeting

Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association Board Meeting Minutes 4/27/08

In Attendance: Michael Dallas-President, Deanne Kearney-Vice President, Debbie Ballard-Secretary, Brian Keller-Treasurer (present by teleconference).

3:05: meeting called to order

Discussed brush clean up around the neighborhood and getting it done before the May 31st Monster Dash.

ACTION: Deanne to call Christi Lemons re brush clearing

Questions as to how vacant lots are sold and making sure we stay informed prior to the sell. Residents living next to vacant city lots are concerned about neglect and/or "surprise" sales.

ACTION: Michael to call city about the procedure and how we can stay informed.

Concerns were voiced about Love Circle Park usage/preservation/cleanup. Brian will be contacting the appropriate people to start the process.

Next meeting scheduled October 4th, general neighborhood meeting.

3:40: meeting adjourned

Calendar

October 4, 2008 (Saturday) 3:00 PM - Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting: Will be held at Debbie Ballard's home at 7575 Surfside Drive. The meeting will have hot dogs. Please bring an easy side dish or dessert, your favorite beverage, and a chair.