Shoreline Protection
Shoreline Protection and Encroachments
onto City of Norfolk Reservoir Property
The City of Norfolk owns property around each of the reservoirs and we ask that you not place of anything along the shoreline or in the reservoir. Items such as grass, leaves and tree limbs don’t protect the shoreline, they add nutrients to the water, contributing to algae growth and potential taste and odor problems with the drinking water. This also creates habitat for muskrats that may burrow under your yard causing other problems. For more information on protecting the watershed while maintaining your lawn, check out the Watershed Protection page.
If you would like to protect the shoreline next to your property, there is information available to assist you in this effort. The City encourages the use of natural vegetation, but will also allow residents to construct rip rap revetments with the appropriate permits. All projects that impact City of Norfolk property will require a Landscape Plan. Details can be found below.
Natural shorelines are the best choice for the lake and the watershed. For more information on what you can do, check out this page for Natural Lakeshore Tips.
Permits are not transferable and it is the property owners responsibility to disclose the permit requirements to all potential buyers of the property. Additionally, a new permit will need to be obtained for anything other than routine maintenance on a permitted structure.
Below are the files that have the information you need to apply for a permit to build on City property. These files are in Adobe PDF format and suitable for printing.
Individual Portions of the Application Package:
- Shoreline Protection Permit Application - Required for all projects
- Sample Erosion Control Plan and Narrative - Required for all projects
- Landscape Plan and Narrative - Required for all projects
- Army Corps of Engineers Joint Permit Application (may be required for your project)
Additional files that are for reference only.
Below are examples of structures built on Norfolk Reservoirs. Click on the pictures to enlarge. |
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| Rip Rap Revetment | Pier | Rip Rap Revetment & Pier |
