Orange Beach Proposes Zoning Amendment That Could Limit Density on Wetland Properties


By Meredith Amon

Orange Beach Alabama

 

The Orange Beach Planning Commission recently voted to recommend a zoning text amendment that would impact how developers calculate density and setbacks—specifically in areas that include wetlands. The proposed changes are now headed to the City Council for final consideration.

 

If approved, this amendment would exclude wetlands from being counted toward total acreage in density calculations. In other words, only upland (buildable) land would be used to determine how many units can be constructed on a property. Additionally, a 15-foot setback from all wetlands—defined in their natural, pre-development state—would be required. Wetland delineations would be confirmed by the Army Corps of Engineers and approved by the City of Orange Beach

Contact Meredith Amon Gulf Coast Realtor

What This Means for Property Owners and Developers

1. Reduced Buildable Density on Certain Lots

Lots with substantial wetland coverage may see a reduction in the number of homes or units that can be built. If you previously calculated development potential using total acreage (including wetlands), you may need to revisit those numbers.

 

2. Impact on Lot Values

Wetland-heavy lots may decrease in value due to reduced buildable area.

Upland-rich lots could become more desirable, especially those that meet the new setback requirements without sacrificing too much space.

Investors and builders will likely re-evaluate pricing models based on the net usable acreage, not just total parcel size.

 

3. Design and Planning Shifts

Site plans may need to be adjusted to accommodate the new 15-foot setback. This can affect not only lot layout but also infrastructure planning, such as roads, driveways, and utilities.

 

4. More Predictability, Less Gray Area

Clear guidelines can be helpful for long-term planning. While the amendment may limit density, it also provides a more consistent, environmentally mindful framework that protects coastal ecosystems.

 

I understand how zoning changes like this can affect the big picture—investment strategies, lot pricing, and even resale value. If you own land that may be impacted or are considering a purchase, let’s have a conversation. I’ll help you navigate your options with confidence.

#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere

SEARCH ORANGE BEACH REAL ESTATE LISTINGS FOR SALE

  • All Listings
Sort by:
5674 Armadillo Avenue, Orange Beach

$410,000

5674 Armadillo Avenue, Orange Beach

2 Beds 1 Bath 916 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385724

EXIT Realty Orange Beach

25861 Canal Road Unit 24, Orange Beach

$408,000

↓ $6,500

25861 Canal Road Unit 24, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 800 SqFt Residential MLS® # 375472

EXIT Realty Gulf Shores

23601 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach

$405,000

23601 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 375749

RV Resort Management LLC

4615 Nancy Lane Unit 8, Orange Beach

$405,000

↓ $5,000

4615 Nancy Lane Unit 8, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,618 SqFt Residential MLS® # 374088

RE/MAX of Orange Beach PHONE: 251-223-3882

22455 Beaver Creek Lane, Orange Beach

$400,000

↓ $15,000

22455 Beaver Creek Lane, Orange Beach

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,621 SqFt Residential MLS® # 373953

RE/MAX Gulf Properties

25861 Canal Road Unit 85, Orange Beach

$399,999

↓ $5,901

25861 Canal Road Unit 85, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 797 SqFt Residential MLS® # 380278

Goode Realty, LLC

5324 Bay La Launch Avenue, Orange Beach

$399,900

5324 Bay La Launch Avenue, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 900 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385312

Goode Realty, LLC

24522 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 1309, Orange Beach

$399,900

↑ $80,000

24522 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 1309, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 960 SqFt Residential MLS® # 376655

Vicki Lynn Real Estate

24568 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 6, Orange Beach

$399,000

↓ $11,000

24568 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 6, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,030 SqFt Residential MLS® # 375035

RE/MAX of Gulf Shores

23601 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach

$399,000

23601 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 374563

RV Resort Management LLC

23601 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach

$399,000

23601 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 385399

RV Resort Management LLC

23060 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 214, Orange Beach

$399,000

↓ $11,000

23060 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 214, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 780 SqFt Residential MLS® # 381672

EXIT Realty Landmark exitanneb@gmail.com


Meredith Amon Gulf CoastNew Construction Meredith Amon Gulf CoastNew Construction
Homes and Waterfront Properties on Old River, Ono Island
Meredith Folger Amon
By Meredith Folger Amon | October 18, 2025

Homes and Waterfront Properties on Old River, Ono Island


Waterfront Properties on Old River, Ono Island

Life Along Old River: The Southern Edge of Ono Island As a homeowner and real estate advisor on Ono Island — https://www.searchthegulf.com/ono-island/, I’ve always been drawn to the quiet beauty and rhythm of Old River, the stretch of water that…

How to Build Equity with New Construction on the Gulf Coast
Meredith Folger Amon
By Meredith Folger Amon | October 18, 2025

How to Build Equity with New Construction on the Gulf Coast

Lagoon-Front Home with Deeded Gulf Access | 2780 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores
Meredith Folger Amon
By Meredith Folger Amon | October 17, 2025

Lagoon-Front Home with Deeded Gulf Access | 2780 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores

30532 Ono North Loop West New Construction Home For Sale Ono Island
Meredith Folger Amon
By Meredith Folger Amon | October 17, 2025

30532 Ono North Loop West New Construction Home For Sale Ono Island


Signup is free and takes only a few seconds

Ask A Question or Sign Up To See New Real Estate Listings Before Your Competition

When it comes to finding the home of your dreams in a fast-paced market, knowing about new listings as soon as they are available is part of our competitive advantage.Sign up to see new listings in an area or specific community. Contact Meredith with any questions you may have.

Provide a valid email address.
Newsletter consent


Posted by Meredith Folger Amon on

Tags

Email Send a link to post via Email

Leave A Comment

e.g. yourwebsitename.com
Please note that your email address is kept private upon posting.