Getting your shoreline project approved and designed can be a long and arduous process that takes several months or even years, especially when you’re working with a marine engineer that isn’t expressly familiar with the area.

However, using a local engineer for your shoreline project can benefit you in a number of ways that make them an easy choice for doing business in the Florida Keys.

They Know the Rules

The Florida Keys have lots of rules that are unique from any other place in the country. For one, there’s the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary to abide by, as well as its own municipal rule. The environment here is so sensitive and easily disrupted that they’ve taken extreme measures to preserve it. 

When a marine engineer from out of the area comes to the Florida Keys, they typically aren’t as familiar with the rules, so even if they can get your project passed on a state and federal level after waiting six months to a year and a half, often times they go to the local building department and get denied for not meeting local criteria. 

This will likely call for a redesign of your project and only serves to lengthen the time before construction can begin—not to mention you’ll need to go through the Army Corps and FDEP all over again and pay for the revisions.

The Cost

Not only will a local marine engineer be more familiar with the rules and regulations of the area, but they’ll save you money during the process. Because they are closer to the job site, they won’t have to charge as much for site visits. On top of that, they are accustomed to the geographical area, including the soil, where rock is located, how deep it is, and more, which allows them to tell you if your project is going to work before any costly testing has even begun. Compare this to out-of-town engineers that will need to test the soil density, its cohesiveness, load bearings, and more.

Rather than doing weeks of testing that pulls money out of your pocket, hiring a local engineer will save you both time and money.

Local Relationships

When working with a local marine engineer, you’re essentially gaining insight into many of the local contractors as well through their shared history. These engineers and contractors have worked together hundreds of times, which can speed up the process of your project while you’re working with them, too. This can also benefit your wallet, as it’s much easier for engineers with long-lasting relationships to obtain better prices than engineers from outside the area. 

Doing this will accelerate the process, get you better deals, and ensure that you’re working with a reputable contractor.

Boating

Another benefit of using a local mariner engineer is that they are familiar with boating. People use all kinds of different types of boats throughout Florida for various recreational activities, and local marine engineers are strongly aware of that. They can then assist in designing your project with all these elements in mind, like the canals, the types of boats used, the varying tides, and more. 

When in Doubt, Choose Local

By using a local marine engineer, you’ll be saving yourself time, money, and lots of headaches that you’d likely experience with standard engineers. If you’re looking to start a shoreline project in the Florida Keys, look no further than Rapid Permits and Engineering. We’ve got years of experience in the area and a team of local marine engineers ready to tackle your next project.

Just give us a call at 365-916-1400 to book your appointment today!