Understanding Accessory Structures and Dwellings on Ono Island
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
"Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon."
If you’re thinking about building a guest house, detached garage, garden shed, or even a home office on your property on Ono Island, it's essential to understand the rules and restrictions surrounding accessory uses and structures. As a homeowner and real estate advisor who specializes in Ono Island, I’ve seen how important it is to plan thoughtfully and in accordance with both the Architectural Review Committee (ACC) and the protective covenants for your specific unit.
Let me break it down for you in simple terms—because the last thing you want is to make a costly mistake or face delays in your building process.
What Are Accessory Uses and Structures?
Accessory structures are additions that support the main home on your lot. These can include:
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Detached garages
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Guest cottages or carriage houses
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Storage sheds or garden buildings
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Pool houses, pergolas, or gazebos
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Home studios, offices, or workshops
These uses are allowed, but only when they follow very specific guidelines outlined by the Ono Island Property Owners Association, the unit-specific covenants, and the Baldwin County Land Use Regulations.
General Requirements for Accessory Uses
Before you even sketch a plan, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
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Comply With Your Unit’s Covenants
Every lot on Ono Island belongs to a particular “Unit” with its own set of restrictions. Your accessory structure must comply with those rules first and foremost. -
Maintain Compatibility With Your Neighborhood
Your accessory structure shouldn’t create additional noise, odors, lighting, or traffic. It needs to blend in with the peaceful, private lifestyle we value here on the island. -
Stay Within Setback Requirements
Accessory uses cannot be built in required yard spaces. This includes front, rear, and side setbacks.
Specific Rules for Accessory Structures
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what’s allowed:
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Location:
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Must remain behind setback lines
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Cannot be placed in the front yard (except on waterfront lots, where the structure may be located between the main home and the water, as long as it stays outside the required setback)
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Cannot sit between the home and the street unless it’s a garage approved by your unit’s covenants
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Size & Scale:
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Accessory structures cannot occupy more than 30% of your rear yard
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They must not exceed the height limit established for homes on Ono Island
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Appearance:
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The design should be harmonious with the primary home
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The roof color and material must match the main home exactly
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One Lot, One Purpose:
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No accessory building—other than a pier or boathouse—can be built on a vacant lot
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Understanding Accessory Dwellings
Accessory dwellings are small, self-contained living spaces used for guests or family—not renters. These are allowed on Ono Island if they meet the following conditions:
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Built Within the Primary Home
The accessory dwelling must be completely contained within your existing home. Detached guest homes are not permitted unless otherwise allowed by your unit’s covenants. -
Size Limitations
It may not exceed 60% of the size (in square footage) of your main house. -
Non-Rental Use
An affidavit must be signed by the property owner stating that:-
The space will not be rented or leased
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It will be used only by family members or their guests
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Permits Required
You must obtain a Land Use Certificate and Building Permit from Baldwin County verifying that the accessory dwelling complies with all applicable land use and building codes.
Common Questions I Hear from Clients
“Can I build a detached pool house with a bathroom?”
Yes, if it meets setback, size, and design requirements. It must not exceed 30% of the rear yard and must complement the main structure.
“Can I add a studio above my detached garage?”
Only if the space is non-habitable or meets the accessory dwelling rules—and only if your unit allows it. Be aware that detached dwellings are heavily restricted.
“What if I already have an accessory structure that doesn’t comply?”
You’ll need to review the unit’s covenants, possibly consult the ACC, and determine whether a variance or correction is necessary. I can help walk you through that process.
Final Thoughts
Building or modifying accessory structures on Ono Island can be a smart way to enhance your property—but it’s critical to plan carefully and stay compliant with island rules, Baldwin County building codes, and your unit’s covenants. The ACC and POA have strict design and placement standards in place to preserve the island’s value, harmony, and beauty.
I always advise clients to engage with their builder and architect early, loop in the ACC for pre-submittal guidance, and check all local requirements. If you’re thinking about making a change or planning a new structure, I’d be happy to help you review your options and put together a plan that works.
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