Pier vs. Dock: What's the Difference and Which Do You Need?

Are you standing on your lakefront property, trying to figure out what structure to build? Deciding between a pier, a dock, or something else entirely can be a difficult task. 

In simple terms, docks are mainly for parking boats, while piers extend over water for walking, fishing, and enjoying the view. But there's much more to it. These terms get mixed up because different regions use different words for the same structures.

Let's clear things up so you can make the right choice for your lake house’s backyard. The right structure makes lakefront living better every day you're there.

Dock or Pier? Key Facts at a Glance

• Dock vs. Pier Purpose: Docks are best for parking and accessing boats, while piers are ideal for walking, fishing, and enjoying deeper water views. Both are often considered must-have amenities for waterfront homes.
• Structure & Design: Docks sit at water level and are often floating or fixed platforms, whereas piers are built on posts (pilings) allowing water to flow underneath.
• Cost Considerations: Piers generally cost more than docks due to complex construction, longer reach, and engineering for deeper or moving water.
• Choosing the Right Fit: Your ideal structure depends on property depth, water movement, usage goals, budget, and local building regulations.

The Simple Difference Between Piers and Docks

Here's what makes them different:

Dock: Think of it as a "parking lot" for boats. Its main job is to be a landing place for boats and make loading/unloading easier. In British English, the word "dock" often means a sheltered water area.

Pier: A structure that extends from the shore into deeper water. It's an elongated structure built on a solid foundation of posts. Piers are often used for walking, fishing, or recreational purposes, not just for tying up boats.

The water flows underneath a pier, while docks are typically at water level. That's why walking on a pier feels different than standing on a dock.

Many piers provide access to deeper water without needing to navigate shallow areas. This benefit makes them valuable for both commercial and personal use.

What Makes Piers Different

Piers are built on pilings (support posts) that allow water to flow freely underneath. This helps prevent stagnant water around your waterfront structure.

Working piers are often used for commercial purposes, while recreational piers are designed for leisure activities to let people enjoy the best of their local lakes.

Piers are great for:

• Fishing in deeper water without a boat
• Walking out over the water for amazing views
• Creating gathering spaces (many commercial piers have restaurants or shops)
• Public recreation

For homeowners, a smaller private pier can give you access to deeper water and create a perfect spot to watch sunsets.

In Kelowna, those living in Pandosy have easy access to the Pandosy Pier. It’s a key feature of Pandosy Waterfront Park and lets people walk out over the lake. There’s even a floating EZ Launch deck for people with canoes and kayaks.

Types of Docks You Should Know About

While residential docks are typically referred to as floating or fixed, it’s still helpful to know some of the other types of docks as well.

Wet Docks

Wet docks keep water at a steady level so boats stay stable. They're like naturally sheltered little harbours where:

• Boats are protected from currents and waves
• Loading and unloading is easier with the stable water level

If you live on a tidal waterway or a lake with changing water levels, this stability makes a big difference for keeping your boat safe.

Dry Docks

Dry docks aren't for everyday use. They're special areas where boats can be taken completely out of the water for:

• Major repairs
• Hull maintenance
• Bottom painting
• Winter storage

Unless you're running a marina-based business, you likely don't need a dry dock for your waterfront home. Some dry docks are used for unloading ships in commercial settings, too.

Location Matters: What Do People Call Docks/Piers Where You Live?

Depending on where you live, different structures may be called different things. It’s important to be clear about which type of structure you’re referring to when it comes to your build. 

When talking with contractors or checking your riparian rights, make sure you're using the terms as they're understood in your area. The dock and pier distinction matters most when designing, building, or buying waterfront property. Whether or not you can build one of these structures is a key question to ask when buying a waterfront home.

Which One Costs More to Build?

Costs vary widely based on:

• Size and length of the structure
• Materials used (wood is cheaper upfront, composite lasts longer)
• Water depth and conditions at your property
• Local building codes and permit requirements

But generally:

• Simple floating docks: $3,000–$18,000+
• Fixed wooden docks: $4,000–$20,000+
• Private piers: $1,000–$60,000+ (depending on length)

Remember that piers almost always cost more because they require deeper pilings and more engineering to withstand waves and currents.

How to Choose the Right Structure for Your Waterfront Property

Ask yourself questions that will help you identify your needs and limitations:

• What's your main goal? Boat storage, fishing, swimming access, or something else?
• How does your waterfront look? Is it shallow for a long way out? Does it have a steep drop-off?
• Does the water level change a lot throughout the year?
• What's your budget? Both for building and maintaining the structure.
• What do local regulations allow? Many areas have strict rules about what you can build on the waterfront.

Many structures combine elements of both docks and piers. These transitional structures give you the best of both worlds: a place to secure your boat and a walkway extending over the water.

Simple Rules of Thumb for Waterfront Owners

A simple dock is typically the most cost-effective option if you need somewhere to tie up a boat. Floating docks that rise and fall with the water are often the best choice for areas with big water level changes. 

However, a pier makes more sense if you want to walk out over deeper water (for views or fishing).

The larger and more complex the structure, the more permits you'll need and the more it will cost to maintain.

Choosing a Waterfront Structure: Focus on What You'll Use

Whether you’re building a dock, a pier, or something custom, it's important not to get too caught up in the terminology. What matters is that you get a structure that:

• Meets your specific needs for how you'll use your waterfront
• Works with your property's water conditions
• Fits your budget for both building and long-term maintenance
• Complies with local building codes and environmental regulations

Whether you call it a dock or a pier, the right waterfront structure adds tremendous value and enjoyment to your property. Ensure that your structure is built right the first time—cutting corners on waterfront structures almost always leads to more expenses later on.

Are you ready to have something built but need help figuring out what’s right for your property? Talk to a local marine contractor who knows the water conditions in your area. They can help you design the perfect solution.