Daphne Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Daphne Zoning Overview
Daphne is a growing city on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay in Baldwin County. As part of the rapidly developing Eastern Shore area, Daphne has experienced substantial residential and commercial growth. The citys zoning addresses growth management while preserving the coastal community character and natural resources of the Mobile Bay watershed.
Key Zoning Districts
Daphne uses residential districts (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4), commercial districts (B-1, B-2, B-3), and planned unit development districts. Environmental overlay zones protect sensitive coastal areas and wetlands.
ADU Regulations
Daphne permits accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones subject to local ordinance requirements. Coastal environmental considerations may affect permitting.
Development Process
Development permits are reviewed by the Planning Department and Planning Commission. Environmental review may be required for properties near wetlands or the bay.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Daphne
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Baldwin County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
- Min Lot
- 10,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 30 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
- Min Lot
- 6,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 10 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
ADU Rules in Daphne
- Max Size
- 800 sq ft
- Max Height
- 25 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Parking
- 1 off-street space required
- Owner Occupancy
- Required
- Permit Timeline
- 30-60 days
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Daphne are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Daphne permit fees →