Behind the Build: What to Expect When Preparing a Homesite on Ono Island
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon
This week, I visited a beautiful lot in Ono North, one of the most established areas of Ono Island. Located in Flood Zone X, the lot doesn’t require flood insurance, and it's surrounded by other well-built homes and mature natural vegetation.
It’s an ideal location for a future homeowner—but like most lots on the island, site preparation requires thoughtful planning. And while none of the steps are unusual, they are often misunderstood or underestimated by those unfamiliar with the building process on Ono Island.
Elevating the Homesite: Normal and Necessary
Many homesites on Ono Island need to be raised prior to construction. This lot is expected to require a stem wall foundation roughly two feet above the level of the road. That’s standard here and ensures proper drainage, structural safety, and compliance with floodplain requirements.
To achieve that, approximately 20 to 30 yards of white sand will need to be brought in. Current estimates put sand pricing at $800 to $1,150 per yard, depending on the supplier and transportation.
Because Ono Island has weight limits on the entrance bridge, only 5 yards of sand may be delivered per truckload, which means multiple trips will be required. If it has rained recently, that moisture increases the weight—sometimes requiring even more trips than initially expected.
This is not a problem—just part of the logistical planning. Experienced builders and engineers anticipate this, and it’s all a routine part of preparing to build on the island.
You’ll Also Need a Lot Clearing Permit
Before any clearing begins, a lot clearing permit is required. And it’s important to know: the Architectural Control Committee (ACC) restricts clearing to only the footprint of the home, driveway, and parking areas. This rule is in place to protect the island’s natural landscape and minimize erosion.
Clearing beyond the allowed areas can lead to delays, fines, or replanting requirements. That’s why it’s essential to have a builder and site crew who are well-versed in ACC procedures and Ono Island POA rules.
Utility Connection Costs to Expect
In addition to foundation work and clearing, there are a few utility-related expenses to plan for:
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Sewer Certificate (Tom Langan): $1,625
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Water Connection: $2,500
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Sewer Connection: $800
Permitting: A Two-Part Process Unique to Ono Island
Construction on Ono Island requires two separate permitting approvals:
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Baldwin County Building Department
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Ono Island’s Architectural Control Committee (ACC)
Both processes are independent, with their own forms, timelines, and compliance checks. Missing a step or submitting incomplete documents can slow things down or result in costly revisions. This is where working with an experienced team—builder, engineer, and architect—who know the island well can make all the difference.
Why Preparation—and the Right Team—Matters
Everything I’ve shared here is typical of building on Ono Island. These aren’t surprises or complications. But they do highlight why local experience matters so much.
From understanding the exact height your slab needs to be, to ensuring your clearing permit only reflects the approved footprint, the team you hire should be able to anticipate and manage every part of the process. I partner with trusted builders and I stay closely involved from lot walk to final inspections—so your vision stays on track and on budget.
If you’re considering building on Ono Island, I’d be honored to guide you. We can walk lots together, discuss builder recommendations, and map out the full process so there are no surprises.
Start here: www.searchthegulf.com/ono-island
Meredith Amon is an expert real estate advisor on Ono Island in Orange Beach, Alabama.
She specializes in new construction, permitting guidance, and helping buyers confidently build their coastal dream homes.
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Ono Island Homes & Land for Sale – Luxury Waterfront Real Estate in Orange Beach Alabama
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