Last reviewed October 18, 2026 by Sean McConnell, Team Leader, McConnell Group
Where are the floating homes in Northlake?
Northlake is the north shore of Lake Union, along N Northlake Way near Gas Works Park and the Burke-Gilman Trail. The Floating Homes Association names Northlake among the main Lake Union floating home areas.
Docks and marinas sit along the north shore of Lake Union, so they face south across the lake. Source: Floating Homes Association: Locations
Floating homes or houseboats? What you'll find here
A mix of floating homes and marina houseboats. Because both are here, check each listing's type. Is it a floating home or a FOWR? The plaque, the dock or marina paperwork and the utility setup will tell you.
Moorage types on these docks
Terms differ from dock to dock, so verify them for each one. Floating homes are usually on co-op or condo moorage with monthly dues. Marina houseboats usually lease slips with liveaboard permission. Get the documents early and read the rules on remodels, rentals and pets.
Getting around
N Northlake Way runs along the shore, close to Gas Works Park and the Burke-Gilman Trail. Seaplanes take off and land on Lake Union, so some docks hear them. Parking and storage vary by dock.
A dated example
Recent dues and slip fee examples, with dates, are in the guide.
Rules that apply on every dock
Seattle code sets a few rules for every floating residence, wherever it sits. Each verified residence has a unique 3-digit City number it must display. No floating residence may be used as a short-term rental under 30 nights (SMC 23.42.060). Floating homes need direct sewer and water connections, must have been legally established or permitted by June 15, 2015, and need an SDCI permit before exterior repair, remodel, expansion or rebuild.
A FOWR is a vessel or other floating structure used mainly as a residence, with detachable utilities, and its owner must have held marina space since before July 1, 2014. Because no new floating homes are being added, supply in Northlake stays limited, and it helps to have financing and insurance arranged before the right home is listed. Source: SDCI Tip 229 Source: RCW 90.58.270, Washington State Legislature Source: Seattle SDCI: Floating Residences Source: Lake Life Seattle: Floating Home Buying Guide (2026)
What to check before you buy here
Each dock has its own rules, budget and float condition.