Dreaming of stepping from your backyard dock onto the water, but not sure what you can store, park, or launch in Bel Marin Keys? You are not alone. Boat storage, street parking, and dock use here follow several sets of rules, and they vary by property. This guide explains who governs what, how to stay compliant, and where to verify the details before you buy or sell. Let’s dive in.
Who sets the rules in Bel Marin Keys
Bel Marin Keys is a waterfront community served by the Bel Marin Keys Community Services District (BMKCSD), a public special district that maintains the lagoons, two navigational locks, boat ramps, and levees. For lagoon use, locks, and district ramps, start with the district’s overview and contacts on the BMKCSD website (bmkcsd.us) and its Waterways Ordinances. You can find the district overview at the BMKCSD page: BMK | A Unique Community.
Because Bel Marin Keys sits in unincorporated Marin County, county ordinances apply on public streets and in public waterways within county jurisdiction. BMKCSD notes it is subject to Marin County ordinances, so county parking and vehicle rules govern public roads. For property‑specific restrictions on driveways, docks, or on‑lot storage, recorded CC&Rs or association rules may apply and can differ by Unit or subassociation.
In March 2024, residents approved a local funding measure for levees, locks, and dredging improvements, a sign that waterway infrastructure is a community priority. See context at California 2024 local ballot measures.
Using lagoons, locks, and ramps
BMKCSD’s Waterways Ordinances are the primary source for lagoon rules, lock operations, and district ramp access. These rules typically cover no‑wake zones, permitted vessel types, guest policies, and any scheduling or fees for using the locks and ramps. Review the current document here: BMKCSD Waterways Ordinances.
If you need specifics on lock hours, reservations, or guest access, contact BMKCSD directly through the district page. The district manages day‑to‑day operations and can confirm current procedures.
Driveway and street parking for boats and trailers
You will encounter two sets of rules:
- Public streets. Marin County parking and vehicle codes apply to county‑maintained roads. Oversized vehicle or time‑limit restrictions may affect boat and trailer parking on public streets. Enforcement is through county processes.
- Private roads and lots. If a street or lot is private, your association’s CC&Rs and operating rules control where and how long you can park. Many associations limit visible storage of boats and trailers or require garage or screened storage.
Quick checklist before you park
- Identify whether your street is public or private in your title report or county maps.
- Read your parcel’s CC&Rs and any association “rules and regulations.”
- Confirm if only temporary loading and unloading is allowed in driveways.
- When in doubt, call BMKCSD for general guidance and check county parking rules for public streets.
Docks, lifts, and backyard access
Many homes back to a lagoon and include a private dock or lift. Whether a dock is included with the property can depend on recorded rights, easements, or licenses in the deed and CC&Rs. If a structure extends into district waterways, BMKCSD rules may also apply. Start by reviewing disclosures, title documents, and CC&Rs, then confirm district guidelines at BMK | A Unique Community.
HOA enforcement and fines in 2025
If your property is in a common interest community, the Davis‑Stirling Act sets procedures for enforcing parking and storage rules. As of 2025, state law limits most routine HOA fines to generally $100 per violation unless the board makes a written finding at an open meeting that the violation may cause an adverse health or safety impact. Owners also have notice, hearing, and right‑to‑cure protections. For background, see the Davis‑Stirling overview and this HOA update on fine limitations: HOA fine limitations in 2025.
Consequences can still include warnings, notices, and towing if authorized by the CC&Rs, along with county enforcement on public streets. The practical takeaway: resolve issues early and keep documentation of any cures.
If on‑lot storage is restricted
If your CC&Rs limit driveway or side‑yard storage, consider:
- Private marina slips or yacht club memberships.
- Commercial dry storage yards or offsite trailer parking.
- Launching via district ramps when permitted.
For local referrals to marinas or storage options, ask BMKCSD or the local yacht club. The district contact page is here: BMK | A Unique Community.
Buyer and seller tips
For buyers
- Verify whether a dock or lift is included. Review the deed, recorded easements, and CC&Rs, and confirm any district requirements.
- Understand parking rules before you write an offer. Read the CC&Rs and identify if your street is public or private.
- Review local waterway rules. Read the BMKCSD Waterways Ordinances for lock and ramp use.
For sellers
- Disclose dock and boat rights clearly, including any licenses or assignments.
- Share any association rules that limit boat or trailer storage.
- Address and disclose any pending enforcement actions or fines to keep escrow smooth.
Who to call and what to read
- BMKCSD overview and contacts: BMK | A Unique Community
- Lagoon, lock, and ramp rules: BMKCSD Waterways Ordinances
- HOA framework: Davis‑Stirling overview
- 2025 fine limits summary: HOA fine limitations in 2025
- Community context: California 2024 local ballot measures
Ready to match your boating lifestyle with the right Bel Marin Keys home or prepare your property for market? Reach out to Amadeo Arnal for local guidance, a thoughtful plan, and a smooth, well‑managed experience.
FAQs
Bel Marin Keys driveway boat parking rules
- It depends on your parcel’s CC&Rs and whether your street is public or private; county rules govern public streets, and HOA rules apply on private roads and lots, with most routine HOA fines generally capped at $100 unless a documented health or safety concern exists.
Lock operations and guest access in Bel Marin Keys
- BMKCSD operates the locks and sets rules in its Waterways Ordinances, so review the Waterways Ordinances and contact the district for current hours, procedures, and guest policies.
Is a dock included when buying a Bel Marin Keys home?
- Verify by checking the deed, recorded easements, and CC&Rs, and confirm any district requirements if the structure extends into BMK waterways.
Street parking of trailers in Bel Marin Keys
- On public streets, Marin County parking rules apply and are enforced by the county; on private roads, association rules control and may restrict long‑term or visible storage.
Alternatives if HOA rules forbid trailer storage
- Consider marina slips, yacht club options, or commercial dry storage, and ask BMKCSD for local referrals via its district page.
