Maryland Shoreline Erosion Control: Living Shorelines, Riprap & Bulkheads Explained

Shoreline Revetment and Erosion Control: What Every Waterfront Owner Should Know

Owning a waterfront property is one of life’s great pleasures. But along with the sweeping views and access to the water comes a reality every Chesapeake Bay homeowner eventually faces: erosion control. It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential — and it doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right approach, you can protect your property, safeguard the environment, and preserve your investment for years to come.

Why Erosion Control Matters

The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries contain more than 6,000 miles of shoreline. Roughly 4,500 of those miles are actively eroding. Left unchecked, erosion threatens not just the stability of homes and docks but also the health of the Bay itself.

Beyond undermining structures, eroding shoreline releases sediment into the water. That sediment can smother aquatic vegetation, disrupt marine habitats, and even clog navigable channels used by both recreational and commercial vessels. Protecting your shoreline isn’t just about saving your backyard; it’s about protecting a shared natural resource.

Signs Your Shoreline May Need Attention

If you’re unsure whether your property is at risk, start with these questions:

• Have you noticed measurable erosion over the last two years?

• Is marshland on your property disappearing?

• Do you need to step down onto the beach where once it was level?

• Are trees along your shoreline leaning or falling into the water?

• Does your beach disappear at high tide?

• Have neighbors on the same stretch of shoreline recently installed erosion controls?

If you answered “yes” to one or more, it’s time to evaluate your shoreline. In many cases, your neighbors’ actions are a reliable early warning — if they’re addressing erosion, chances are you should too.

Getting Expert Help and Permits

The good news is there are excellent resources and contractors who specialize in shoreline stabilization. In Maryland, the Department of the Environment (MDE) provides information on recommended contractors and even potential funding sources. Because this work affects navigable waters, federal permits are issued through the Army Corps of Engineers.

An experienced professional — and an experienced waterfront agent — can guide you through the permitting process, from preparing detailed site photos and clear plans to notifying your neighbors as required.

Types of Shoreline Revetment

Many homeowners think “bulkhead” is the only option, but there are several effective and environmentally sensitive alternatives:

• Living Shorelines: These projects create or restore marshlands and beaches, using natural vegetation and gradual slopes to absorb wave energy. They’re often the most desirable solution when site conditions allow.

• Beach Nourishment: Adding sand and stabilizing vegetation can rebuild a beach and buffer your property against erosion.

• Stone Revetments (Riprap): Large stones placed along the shore reduce wave energy and keep soil in place. This is a popular and highly effective option.

• Bulkheads: Vertical retaining walls — usually timber or vinyl — are the least favored. They can leach chemicals into the water and often cause scouring at their base.

Many properties combine approaches, such as pairing a stone revetment with marsh creation or beach nourishment, to balance effectiveness and environmental impact.

Planning a Successful Project

When planning shoreline work:

1. Engage Qualified Experts. Select contractors with proven experience in waterfront stabilization.

2. Document Thoroughly. Submit clear photos of all areas to be improved.

3. Prepare Detailed Plans. Make sure your plans are concise and permit-ready to avoid delays.

4. Notify Neighbors. Maryland’s permitting process requires you to inform adjoining property owners of your intentions.

5. Coordinate with Your Realtor. An agent who understands waterfront properties can help anticipate issues and connect you with the right professionals.

The more proactive you are, the smoother your project will go — and the sooner your shoreline will be secure.

Why the Right Realtor Matters

Waterfront homes are a world apart from standard real estate. When it comes to selling (or buying) on the water, you need a representative who understands erosion control, permitting timelines, and the long-term implications of shoreline conditions. It’s not just about listing a property; it’s about presenting its strengths, mitigating its risks, and ensuring a buyer feels confident.

As a waterfront specialist, I help my clients navigate these issues early. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want guidance on your property’s shoreline, I can connect you with trusted contractors, clarify the permitting process, and help you position your home in its best light.

Protecting the Bay, Protecting Your Investment

Shoreline revetment and erosion control may sound technical, but at its core it’s about stewardship — of your property, your community, and the Chesapeake Bay itself. With informed planning and the right team, you can preserve both the beauty and the value of your waterfront home for decades to come.