Building in a Coastal Area

Hilton Head Island
Whether you are looking for an igloo in Alaska or a thatched hut in Tahiti, you know that climate and land topology play a critical role in the type of home that you will build or buy. Hilton Head is no different. Acuff Homes has been crafting new homes in this area for over 35 years, and we would like to share some of our expertise with you. The following sections are intended to help you make a better informed decision about your new home.


Tree & Topo Survey
A tree and topography survey will be required for the building on the island. This is a survey showing property lines, elevation contours, and tree species locations. This is necessary for locating the house in relation to required setbacks, specimen trees, as well as making best use of views. There will also be restrictions as to how many trees can be removed from the lot during the building process. This survey will be needed before any cost estimate can be reasonably prepared.

Building on a Barrier Island
One of the restrictions of building on a barrier island is meeting the guidelines established by both the Federal Emergency Management Act (FEMA) which subsidizes our flood insurance and the new South Carolina Beach Management Act. 

FEMA’S guidelines restrict the type of construction and details used in home building along with establishing required finished floor elevations. FEMA’S regulations are administered by the local building inspections office and required finished floor heights and construction information can be obtained from this office.

The South Carolina Beach Management Act was established to control construction along South Carolina beach and ocean inlet areas. In some areas the zones established by the SCCC venture further land ward than first row ocean lots. The actual location of these lines is established by SCCC and administration of this regulation through office also. 

Architectural Review Boards
All the island’s plantations, and a number of its developments, are platted by the town and include covenants and restrictions which regulate square footages, building setbacks, and exterior colors and designs for all homes within their plantation. Prior to beginning construction, architectural drawings including site and landscape plans must be approved by the ARB. ARB’s also require compliance deposits, as well as plan review fees, which are normally paid by the homeowner.