Building Your Dream Home in Orange Beach, Alabama: Essential Guidelines for New Construction

As a real estate expert in Orange Beach, Alabama, I often assist clients interested in building new homes along our beautiful coastline. Whether you are looking to design a custom home or invest in new construction, understanding the local regulations, insurance benefits, and permit processes is crucial. This article will guide you through the advantages of building in Orange Beach, how to access important insurance discounts, permit requirements for marine structures, and how to navigate the construction permit process.

Insurance Discounts for New Construction in Orange Beach

Building a home in Orange Beach comes with the advantage of potential savings on insurance through the Fortified Home™ Program, which promotes stronger, more resilient homes. This is particularly important in coastal regions prone to hurricanes and severe weather.

• Fortified Home Designation: Alabama mandates insurance discounts for homes that receive a “Fortified Designation” through the Fortified Home™ Program. Homes built to meet Orange Beach’s rigorous construction standards can qualify for a Gold Fortified Designation if they undergo third-party inspections to verify compliance. A Bronze Fortified Designation is available for homes that replace roofs in accordance with Fortified standards, provided they meet inspection criteria.

• Flood Insurance Savings: Thanks to Orange Beach's participation in the Community Rating System (CRS), homeowners may also qualify for reduced flood insurance premiums. The CRS rewards communities that take proactive steps to reduce flood risks, offering significant insurance savings to those living in designated areas.

Permit Requirements for Marine Structures

For homeowners looking to take full advantage of coastal living, building marine structures such as boat slips, boathouses, and bulkheads can enhance your property's functionality and value. However, these projects require specific permits to ensure environmental and safety standards are met.

• Permit Requirements: Any new or reconstructed boat slips, boat houses, docks, or bulkheads require permits from the City of Orange Beach.
  • Boat slips, boat houses, and docks require a Building Permit (SubType: Marine Accessory).
  • Bulkheads require a Site Permit, with the "Wall, Retaining Wall, Bulkhead Permit" section completed.
• Federal and State Approvals: Before the City of Orange Beach issues permits, approval must be obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This ensures that the structure complies with environmental guidelines and does not negatively affect local ecosystems.

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$1,745,000

29863 Moondance Lane, Orange Beach

4 Beds 5 Baths 3,292 SqFt Residential MLS® # 386734

Coastal Living Properties, LLC PHONE: 251-609-9898

$1,745,000

↓ $30,000

25610 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 20d2, Orange Beach

3 Beds 4 Baths 1,865 SqFt Residential MLS® # 376542

Brett R/E Robinson Dev OB Main: 251-981-6180

$1,695,000

23008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 2405, Orange Beach

4 Beds 4 Baths 2,091 SqFt Residential MLS® # 383454

Real Broker, LLC

$1,695,000

↓ $40,000

23008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 2005, Orange Beach

4 Beds 4 Baths 2,091 SqFt Residential MLS® # 381885

Kaiser Sotheby's Int-GS PHONE: 251-550-5500

$1,680,000

25117 Romar Vista Place, Orange Beach

4 Beds 4 Baths 1,854 SqFt Residential MLS® # 386517

Kaiser Sotheby's Int-GS DIR: 251-968-6869

$1,595,000

25991 W Perdido Avenue, Orange Beach

4 Beds 5 Baths 2,159 SqFt Residential MLS® # 383103

EXP Realty Seaside PHONE: 251-279-0099

$1,499,000

3188 Egret Run, Orange Beach

5 Beds 5 Baths 2,555 SqFt Residential MLS® # 382212

Coastal Living Properties, LLC PHONE: 251-609-9898

$1,450,000

↓ $45,000

23008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 2507, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,866 SqFt Residential MLS® # 381181

RE/MAX Paradise

$1,449,000

31410 Dolphin Drive, Orange Beach

4 Beds 4 Baths 2,583 SqFt Residential MLS® # 382623

Signature Properties

$1,440,000

↓ $95,000

23008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 1707, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,866 SqFt Residential MLS® # 383414

Brett R/E Robinson Dev OB Main: 251-981-6180

$1,415,000

23008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 2007, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,866 SqFt Residential MLS® # 386464

Brett R/E Robinson Dev OB Main: 251-981-6180

$1,400,000

↓ $50,000

23008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 1407, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,835 SqFt Residential MLS® # 382382

Elite By The Beach, LLC PHONE: 251-949-2100

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Wetlands on Your Property: What You Need to Know

In Orange Beach, it is not uncommon for properties to have wetlands, which can impact building plans. To determine if wetlands are present, contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. These agencies can provide guidance on how wetlands may affect your construction project and offer insight into any restrictions you may face.

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: 251-690-2658
• Alabama Department of Environmental Management: 251-304-1176

Setback Requirements for New Homes

For those building a new single-family home, Orange Beach enforces minimum setback requirements that must be considered during the design phase. These setbacks are applied from your property line and ensure adequate space between homes and streets.

• Front Setback: 30 feet
• Rear Setback: 20 feet
• Side Setbacks: 10 feet

How to Obtain a Permit for Your New Construction

Navigating the permit process is a critical part of any new construction project. In Orange Beach, all building permit applications are handled through the Orange Beach Permit Portal. This portal simplifies the process by allowing you to apply for permits, upload construction plans, check the review status, and request inspections, all online.

Who Can Apply for a Permit?

Permits can only be issued to the property owner or the contractor responsible for the project. If a contractor is managing the construction, it is their responsibility to submit the permit application, along with copies of their licenses, a detailed scope of work, and any required documentation. However, it is important that the property owner ensures all necessary permits are obtained before any work begins. Always ask to see the approved permits before construction starts.

How Much Does a Permit Cost?

Permit fees vary based on the type of project and can be found in the Permit Fee Schedule. Fees are payable once the permit application is approved, with the exception of plan review fees. Once your permit is approved and ready for payment, you will receive an email notification.

• Online Payment: You can pay online via credit or debit card through the Orange Beach Permit Portal.
• In-Person Payment: Pay by check or cash at the Community Development office, located at 4101 Orange Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach, AL 36561.
• Mail Payment: Send a check to City of Orange Beach, Community Development, P.O. Box 2432, Orange Beach, AL 36561.

Please note, no construction work should begin until payment is processed and the permit status is marked as "Issued."

Why Building in Orange Beach Is a Smart Investment

Building a new home in Orange Beach offers not only the beauty and lifestyle of coastal living but also financial benefits through insurance savings and potential property appreciation. With strict construction standards that promote safety and durability, homes built here are well-positioned to withstand the elements while maintaining long-term value.

Additionally, the opportunity to customize marine structures such as boat slips and bulkheads further enhances the value and functionality of your property. These projects, when properly permitted, offer the chance to enjoy direct access to the water, a key feature for many prospective buyers.

Conclusion: Your Partner in New Construction

As you consider building or purchasing new construction in Orange Beach, I am here to help guide you through every step of the process. From navigating the permit application system to ensuring compliance with the Fortified Home Program, my goal is to make your experience as seamless and rewarding as possible. Whether you are looking to build your dream home or invest in a waterfront property with marine access, I am available to offer the expertise and local insight you need to make informed decisions.

Let’s work together to make your vision a reality.

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