Residential & Commercial Marine Construction
Serving the Northeast Coastal Waterways and Lakes
Since 1990, Riverside & Pickering has been dedicated to customer satisfaction and quality construction, while maintaining high safety and environmental standards. We understand that investing in your waterfront property takes precision planning, creative design, industry knowledge and experience, and most importantly trust in the people bringing your project to fruition. Whether you’re a restaurant, marina or venue owner, commercial fisherman, or a homeowner looking to get the most out of your waterfront access, our mission is to deliver value-added long-lasting solutions for commercial and residential clients in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts waterfront communities.
Our team brings in-depth knowledge of local waterways, industry and environmental standards, and the expertise to handle projects of all sizes, scopes, and complexities. We’ll plan and build a waterfront access structure to perfectly suits your property–whether you’re in Kennebunkport, on the York or Piscataqua River, Great Bay, Merrimack River or one of the many tributaries that feed into the Atlantic. Let Riverside & Pickering bring your vision to life!
Talk to Us About Your Project
Residential Marine Services
With decades of experience in the marine industry, Riverside & Pickering provides tug, barge, and towing services tailored for residential waterfront projects and personal marine needs throughout New England. Our fully crewed tug and push boat charters offer safe and efficient transport of materials, equipment, or structures to your location. We handle everything from barge rentals for shoreline work, dock construction, and more. Whether you’re building a private pier, relocating a float, or need marine transport for a custom project on a lake or the ocean, our skilled team ensures smooth operations with attention to detail and personalized service.
Commercial Marine Services
Riverside & Pickering offers reliable, full-service tug, barge, and towing operations to support complex marine projects throughout New England. Our experienced crews are equipped to handle a wide range of commercial needs, including cable laying, anchor handling, material transport, and marine construction support. We provide barge and dump scow rentals for everything from dredging and demolition to offshore infrastructure work, ensuring safe, efficient delivery and placement of equipment and materials. Whether you’re managing a utility installation, coastal development, or heavy marine lift, our team delivers dependable marine logistics with the precision and professionalism your project demands.
Areas Served
- Portland
- Eliot
- Kittery
- York
- Scarborough
- Ogunquit
- Old Orchard Beach
- Sebago
- Portsmouth
- Rye
- Newington
- New Castle
- North Hampton
- Durham
- Greenland
- Seacoast Region
- Lakes Region
- North Shore
- Newburyport
- Gloucester
- Boston
Construction & Permitting FAQs
Do I need a permit?
Most projects involving work in the water or below the high-water line require some type of permit. The specific permits needed depend on the project type, scope (repair, replacement, or new construction), and location.
Permitting timelines can range from a few weeks to up to one year in some cases. We recommend planning ahead and contacting us early. Our team can help you understand the requirements specific to your site and project.
Can I handle the permitting process myself?
While it is possible to manage permitting on your own, we strongly recommend working with a professional. The regulatory process can be complex and often involves coordination with multiple agencies.
Although permits are never guaranteed, we are transparent about potential concerns early on. Our experience allows us to navigate challenges and work directly with regulatory agencies to help move projects forward efficiently.
How long is a permit valid once obtained?
Permit duration varies by state and permit type.
New Hampshire
Most dock and wetland permits issued under Wetlands Rules are valid for five (5) years, with the possibility of a five-year extension upon approval.
Maine (NRPA Permits)
- If construction does not begin within four (4) years, the permit may be extended for another four years with approval.
- If construction begins within four years, the permit is typically valid for seven (7) years from issuance.
- If construction is not completed within seven years, reapplication is required.
Local & Federal Permits
Municipal permits and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permits may have different expiration timelines depending on project scope and location.
How large can my dock be, or how many slips are allowed?
Dock size and the number of slips is determined on a case-by-case basis. Factors include water depth, shoreline frontage, navigation channels, environmental resources, and applicable regulations.
Because requirements vary widely, there is no universal standard.
How long will construction take?
Once permits are approved, materials are delivered, and equipment is mobilized:
- Dock construction: typically, 1.5-4 weeks.
- Shoreline stabilization / riprap varies based on project scope.
Actual timelines depend on site conditions, weather, access, and tidal cycles.
What materials are used to construct a dock?
We use high-quality, marine-grade materials selected based on site conditions and client preferences. These may include:
- Marine-treated lumber.
- Specialty hardwoods.
- Fiberglass or steel pilings.
- Composite decking.
- Corrosion-resistant marine hardware.
What shoreline stabilization options do you offer?
We provide a range of shoreline stabilization solutions tailored to site-specific conditions. The appropriate method depends on shoreline type, accessibility, environmental considerations, regulatory requirements, and location.
Common options include:
- Riprap (hard armoring/stone).
- Coir logs and other soft stabilization (green) methods.
- Hybrid solutions (combination of soft and hard methods).
- Sheet piling.
- Timber bulkheads.
- Pre-cast concrete.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re planning a new dock, repairing an existing structure, or exploring permitting requirements, our team is here to help. Permitting timelines can range from a few weeks to up to one year in some cases. We recommend planning ahead and contacting us early. Our team can help you understand the requirements specific to your site and project.