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Planning Division

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1. How Do I Get A Commercial or Multi-Family Development Permit?

These permits must be issued in compliance with the Destin Comprehensive Plan and related Land Development Regulations. Commercial or Multi-family development projects require a Development Order to be issued prior to the issuance of any building permits. This development order is issued by the Planning Division.

2. When do I Need a Permit to Remove a Tree?

Anytime you remove a protected tree. What is a protected tree? Any tree between 12 and 24 inches in diameter (diameter is calculated by measuring the circumference and then dividing that number by 3.14) at a point four and one-half feet above ground level.

3. When do I Need a Permit to Clear Land?

Anytime you use heavy machinery to clear a parcel of land for construction or for any other purpose (grade and fill, harvest timber, bushog, etc). For a list of what’s required for a Land Clearing permit please refer to Article 2.05.02 (F) of the Destin Land Development Code (LDC) Link to Land Development Code, Article 2

4. Where Can I Get a Copies of the City of Destin's Development Regulations?

There are three documents available online at the Municode Online Library:

1. Destin Code of Ordinances

2. Destin Land Development Code

3. Destin Comprehensive Plan

Link to Municode Library - Destin

5. What does "Grandfathered" mean?

Grandfathered is another way to describe something that is considered existing and non-conforming. Grandfathered or existing non-conforming is a term used to describe a situation that existed prior to the adoption of a new ordinance or law. For example: A resident has a forty-eight (48") inch high fence in their front yard which was constructed ten (10) years ago. The neighbor desires to construct the same fence in their front yard, but a new ordinance was passed three (3) years ago which still permits a fence in the front yard, but only thirty-six (36") inch high. The forty-eight (48") inch high fence is "grandfathered" because it existed prior to the adoption of the new height limitation.

6. Can I open a business out of my home?

The City of Destin does permit businesses to be based out of a residence however, certain conditions apply. These businesses must comply with City Code, which limit the type of businesses that can be operated out of your home. Permitted home businesses typically involve office use without employee's, inventory or storage. Please refer to Land Development Code Home Occupations Standards: Article 9.06.06. Link to Land Development Code, Article 9

7. What are building setbacks?

Building setbacks are minimum distances by which any building or structure must be separated from a property line or another building/structure. These setbacks assure the adequate distance to provide for supply of light and air, fire protection and more generally to assure the health safety and general welfare of property owners.

8. How can I find out the building setbacks for my lot?

Follow the link below to the City of Destin Zoning Map. The Zoning Districts are depicted in various colors. Once you know the Zoning District of your parcel, you can consult the Zoning District Factsheet for that district to determine what are the allowable uses, as well as setback and desity. Factsheet links are found in the Zoning section of the Planning Division page. Link to Destin Zoning Map

9. I would like to add an accessory structure (swimming pool, detached garage, deck, etc.) to my property. What are the limitations for such structures?

The City has minimum zoning standards concerning accessory structures (size restrictions, height, location and setback requirements). For more information concerning these standards please contact the City's Planning Division at 850-337-3123. To obtain a Building Permit application or for submittal procedures please contact the Building Division at 850-654-1119.

10. I would like to place an off-premise sign advertising my business, service or organization, along city streets or on other property. What are the City’s requirements concerning this type of signage?

This type of signage is prohibited by the City of Destin. Off-premise signs are defined as signs which advertise products or businesses which are not located on the same lot or parcel as the sign. An owner's permission to place a sign on property does not allow having the use of the sign. For more information on Signs, please refer to the Destin Land Development Code Article 16.
Link to Land Development Code, Article 16

11. What are the guidelines for fencing?

The City Code regulates the location, height and material of a fence. Any fence or portion of a fence that is leaning, sagging, or missing supports or pickets requires replacement or repair. Fence regulations are found in Article 9.06.05 of the Land Development Code. A fence permit is required for all new fencing and must be submitted to the Building Division. To obtain a Building Permit application or for submittal procedures please contact the Building Division at 850-654-1119. Link to Land Development Code, Article 9

12. What is the Zoning of my parcel?

Follow the link below to the City of Destin Zoning Map. The Zoning Districts are depicted in various colors. Once you know the Zoning District of your parcel, you can consult the Zoning District Factsheet for that district to determine what are the allowable uses, as well as setback and desity. Factsheet links are found in the Zoning section of the Planning Division page. Link to Destin Zoning Map