Abutting/Contiguous Property

These are properties that touch, are adjacent to, or are separated by a right-of-way or easement. Why does this matter? On Ono Island, it affects everything from dock setbacks to fence approvals.

Accessory Dwelling

Think of a mother-in-law suite or guest apartment located inside the main home. It must be fully contained within the primary dwelling and cannot exceed 60% of its size. Duplexes are prohibited on Ono Island, but this type of living space is permitted.

Accessory Structure

These are detached structures—such as garages or sheds—that support the primary residence. Interestingly, bulkheads, fences, pergolas, and air conditioner platforms are not considered accessory structures under ACC regulations.

Alteration & Structural Alteration

Any material change to a structure counts as an alteration. If you're changing load-bearing walls or adding on to your home, that counts as a structural alteration and requires specific ACC review.

Architectural Control Committee (ACC)

Whether referred to as the ACC, Architectural Control Committee, or ACC Committee, this group ensures conformity with neighborhood standards. All exterior modifications and site improvements must be approved by them first.

Base Flood & Base Flood Elevation (BFE)

The BFE is the elevation a property must meet to reduce flood risk based on FEMA flood maps. It plays a major role in home design, especially for new builds in flood zones across Ono Island and Orange Beach.

Boathouse & Boathouse Maximum Size Allowance

Boathouses must adhere to strict size limits, which include the total width and length of decking, catwalks, roofing, and pilings. I've helped clients interpret these measurements during the permitting process and recommend consulting a surveyor early on.

Building Height

In Baldwin County, you're allowed multiple stories, but total height must remain under 40 feet at the building's highest point and under 45 feet at the roof's ridge from the finished grade.

Certificate of Occupancy

A home cannot be legally occupied until the County issues this certificate, confirming all zoning, safety, and code standards are met. I always verify this step before a closing.

Conditional Use

This is a use that isn't automatically allowed but may be approved by the Baldwin County Planning Commission—think of unique design features or less typical property uses.

Deck, Porch, and Cupola

Decks are uncovered platforms; porches are roofed extensions off the home. A cupola is a small decorative structure on the roof—limited to 3 feet tall and 5'x5' in size.

Development & Site Plan

Development encompasses anything from land clearing to vertical construction. Site plans show how all proposed improvements will sit within setback lines, and they’re essential to obtain ACC approval.

Dwelling Types

A single-family dwelling is allowed on Ono Island; duplexes are not. Accessory dwellings are permitted within the footprint of the main home. Each dwelling must have cooking, sleeping, and sanitation facilities.

Floodplain, Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and Flooding

Homes near waterways like Old River, Bayou St. John, or the Gulf must be designed to withstand periodic flooding. Knowing your flood zone is critical for insurance, design, and financing.

Garage & Impervious Surface

A private garage must be designed for on-site vehicle storage. Impervious surfaces—like driveways and roofs—are regulated due to runoff. Be mindful of your lot’s impervious surface ratio during design.

Lot Definitions (Corner, Interior, Width, Depth, Front/Rear/Side Lines)

Understanding your lot type and boundaries is key. For waterfront properties, the front yard is often defined as the side facing the water. These definitions directly influence your buildable area.

Nonconforming Use or Structure

Some properties were built before current rules were enacted. These are considered nonconforming and may not be expanded without specific variances.

Pier, Catwalk, Finger Pier, Floating Dock

Each of these terms describes different parts of a waterfront structure. Catwalks and finger piers are additional elements to your main dock. Ono Island ACC has detailed requirements for pier lengths, setbacks, and configuration.

Setback Line

No structure may be built within this buffer space. Always consult your unit-specific covenants and ACC guidelines for front, rear, and side setback distances.

Structure vs. Accessory Feature

Not all improvements are classified as "structures." Walkways, trellises, and air conditioning platforms are considered accessory features and have different review requirements.

Swimming Pool

Only permanent, in-ground pools are allowed, and they must comply with setback limits. I've worked closely with clients to submit proper pool permits and get them through the ACC.

Variance (ACC vs. County)

Need a small exception to a setback or pier rule? That’s where a variance comes in. The ACC can grant specific variances on Ono Island, while Baldwin County oversees broader zoning variances.

If you’re considering building on the Gulf Coast, especially in a regulated area like Ono Island, it’s crucial to work with a team who speaks this language fluently. I’m here to help simplify the process, connect you with experienced builders and engineers, and make sure your dream home aligns with both your vision and the rules.