How to Build a Boathouse in Orange Beach | Permits + Setbacks

Building a Boathouse in Orange Beach: What You Need to Know

Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon.

As a local real estate advisor and homeowner here on the Gulf Coast, I’m often asked about building a pier and boathouse—especially in Orange Beach, Alabama, where waterfront living is a dream for boaters and coastal enthusiasts alike. Whether you're considering building a full-time residence or a second home with boat access, understanding the process is essential to making that dream a reality.

Recently, I came across a waterfront lot in Orange Beach that reminded me just how valuable it is when a property already has the right pieces in place for boathouse construction. When done correctly, a pier and…

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The Process and Costs of Building Piers, Boathouses, and Docks on Ono Island, Orange Beach, Alabama

The Process and Costs of Building Piers, Boathouses, and Docks on Ono Island, Orange Beach, Alabama

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Building a pier, boathouse, or dock on Ono Island in Orange Beach, Alabama, can be an exciting project, offering you direct access to the water, enhanced property value, and a serene waterfront lifestyle. However, it's essential to understand the complexities involved, especially the varying costs and the necessary permits required by the Baldwin County Building Department and the Ono Island Property Owners Association (POA). Whether you’re looking to build a simple dock or a full-fledged boathouse with boat lifts, the process can vary greatly depending on several factors.

Key Factors…

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Sunset Dining at The Perch: A Gulf Coast Treasure

Sunset Dining at The Perch: A Gulf Coast Treasure

Last night, my friend and I visited The Perch, a fabulous oceanfront restaurant located at Gulf State Park in Alabama. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this was more than just a meal—it was an experience infused with the natural beauty, southern charm, and hospitality that make the Gulf Coast so unique.

The Perch is perfectly positioned with views looking due west, directly over the recently reconstructed fishing pier. As the sun began its descent, the sky was painted with fiery hues of red, orange, and pink, casting a warm glow across the water and the surrounding dunes. There’s a wooden boardwalk nearby that leads visitors to the beach, and it’s the perfect place for a…

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Why Boating Amenities Are the Heart of Ono Island Living

Why Boating Amenities Are the Heart of Ono Island Living

As a homeowner on Ono Island, I’ve seen how boating amenities define the lifestyle here and directly enhance property values. With homes offering deep-water access, private beaches, and stunning waterfront features, Ono Island is a dream come true for boaters. The personal stories and experiences I’ve heard from residents highlight just how valuable these amenities are—and why they’re worth every penny.

Diverse Waterfront Options

Each home on Ono Island offers a unique slice of coastal paradise, tailored for boating enthusiasts. Take Marlin Key Drive, for instance. One homeowner shared how much they love the dual frontage on Bayou St. John and a canal, making it possible to enjoy both…

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Gulf State Park Pier: A Coastal Landmark of Resilience and Beauty

Gulf State Park Pier: A Coastal Landmark of Resilience and Beauty

Stretching over 1,500 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf State Park Pier is an iconic destination on Alabama's Gulf Coast. Since its opening in the summer of 1939, Gulf State Park has played a pivotal role in transforming Alabama's Gulf Coast into a sought-after destination, with tourism becoming the backbone of the local economy. But it was the 1968 addition of an 825-foot pier that truly put the park on the map, attracting visitors from far and wide. Over the decades, the Gulf State Park Pier has been a scene of unforgettable moments—legendary fishing catches, mesmerizing sunsets, and dramatic coastal storms. Despite enduring multiple rebuilds due to storm damage, the pier…

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