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Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in Daphne, Alabama

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ADU Rules in Daphne, Alabama

Daphne is a growing city on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. As a coastal community, ADU development in Daphne must account not only for standard zoning rules but also potential flood zone and stormwater requirements. The city permits ADUs in residential zones under its Zoning Ordinance.

Permitted ADU Types

  • Detached ADU: A standalone structure on the same lot
  • Attached ADU: An addition to the primary home with separate entrance and kitchen
  • Accessory Structure Conversion: Converting an existing garage or outbuilding

Size Limits

ADU Type Maximum Size
Detached ADU 800 sq ft or 40% of primary dwelling
Attached ADU 40% of primary dwelling floor area
Conversion ADU Existing footprint

Setbacks

  • Front: Must meet base zone standard
  • Side: 5 feet minimum
  • Rear: 10 feet minimum
  • Separation from primary: 10 feet minimum

Height

  • Detached ADU: Maximum 15 feet
  • Cannot exceed the height of the primary dwelling

Flood Zone Considerations

Daphne has significant areas within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). Properties in flood zones must:

  • Elevate finished floors above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
  • Obtain a Floodplain Development Permit in addition to a building permit
  • Use flood-resistant materials for below-grade portions

Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center for your property's flood zone status.

Owner Occupancy

The property owner must reside in either the primary dwelling or the ADU.

Parking

One additional off-street parking space is required per ADU.

Permit Process

  1. Flood zone check: Verify with FEMA MSC and city floodplain manager
  2. Zoning check: Confirm eligibility with Community Development
  3. Submit plans: Site plan, floor plans, elevations, and flood compliance documentation
  4. Review: Planning and floodplain compliance review
  5. Building permit: Includes floodplain development permit if needed
  6. Inspections: Required at all phases
  7. Certificate of Occupancy: Required before occupancy

Contact

Daphne Community Development Department 2600 John Craft Hwy, Daphne, AL 36526 Phone: (251) 279-2971 Website: daphneal.com/community-development

Disclaimer: Verify current requirements with the Daphne Community Development Department before starting any project, especially if your property is near Mobile Bay.

More about Daphne Zoning

Sources

  1. Daphne Zoning Ordinance — Accessory Structures·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link
  2. City of Daphne Planning & Zoning·daphneal.com·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs allowed in Daphne, Alabama?
Yes. Daphne permits accessory dwelling units in residential zones. As a coastal community on Mobile Bay, properties near the water may have additional flood zone and environmental restrictions.
What is the maximum ADU size in Daphne?
Accessory dwelling units in Daphne are generally limited to 800 square feet or 40% of the primary dwelling's floor area, whichever is less.
Are there flood zone restrictions for ADUs in Daphne?
Yes. Parts of Daphne near Mobile Bay are in FEMA flood zones. ADUs in these areas must comply with floodplain development regulations and may require elevated construction.