CEDAR BLUFF, Ala.– Residents got an in-depth look at proposed zoning and development changes Monday as the town held a public hearing at 4:30 p.m., followed by its regular Town Council monthly meeting.

Bill Holland, chairman of the Planning Commission, walked those in attendance through a series of recommended updates to the town’s zoning ordinance aimed at modernizing regulations and addressing neighborhood concerns.

Proposed changes include increasing maximum residential fence height from eight feet to nine feet, adding clearer standards for fence placement and privacy fencing, and requiring neighbors who share a property-line fence to agree on installation and maintenance responsibilities.

Officials also outlined tighter construction standards. Major renovations and new builds would require building permits, contractors must hold a local business license, and new language addresses drainage issues, screening for home-based businesses, accessory buildings such as mother-in-law suites, and updated livestock and agricultural rules.

Utility language was discussed as well, including when properties may be required to connect to available sewer service during significant improvements.

The council later voted to adopt most of those zoning changes, with one section — Table 5.26 — tabled for additional review.

During the regular 6 p.m. Town Council meeting, members approved minutes and financial reports and heard department updates.

The council authorized the purchase of a new sanitation garbage truck at a cost of about $303,000 to replace aging equipment and maintain reliable trash service for residents.

They also adopted a return check fee ordinance, lowered the mayor’s spending approval limit from ten thousand dollars to five thousand dollars for tighter oversight, appointed a delegate to the Alabama League of Municipalities convention, and moved the March meeting date to March 5.

Here are the ordinances:

I. Homes on Stilts (Definition Added)

• Adds formal definition for stilt or pile-supported homes (lake dwellings).

• Structures elevated above ground primarily for flood protection.

II. Residential Fence Height

• Increase maximum height from 6 feet to 8 feet.

• 8-foot fences allowed with approval.

• Up to 9 feet permitted in Agricultural (AG) districts.

III. Fence Orientation & Placement

• “Finished side” may face either direction.

• Minimum 4-inch setback from property line or easement.

• Shared fences allowed by agreement.

• Neighbors must agree on installation and maintenance costs.

IV. Terminology Update

• Replace “Zoning Permit” with “Building Permit” throughout ordinance.

V. Building Code Compliance

• All construction must comply with adopted International Building Codes.

VI. Sewer Connections Required

• Sewer connection required when lines are available for:

  • New construction

  • Major renovations

  • Septic system rebuilds

VII. Land Disturbance Permit Required (New)

Permit required prior to:

• New construction

• Expansions

• Grading

• New driveways

• Removal of 15+ mature trees

VIII. Accessory Residential Units

• Building permit required for accessory dwellings (mother-in-law suites, etc.).

IX. Home Occupations / Cottage Industries

• Materials/equipment must be stored to rear of property.

• Screening (fence/landscaping) required to block public view.

X. Narrow Lots in R-2 District

• Allows reduced lot widths (minimum 50 ft) if:

  • Setbacks met

  • Sewer available

  • Compatible with neighborhood

XI. Lakefront Recreational Overlay Lots

• Allows homes on stilts where approved by Alabama Power.

• Must meet shoreline setbacks and height limits.

• Updates area and dimensional tables.

XII. Animal Equivalent Units (Livestock)

• Adds miniature horses, mules, donkeys.

• Livestock restricted to side/rear yards.

• Clarifies animals permitted per acre.

XIII. Building Permits for Major Changes

Permit required for:

• Additions, decks, structural renovations, rebuilds

• Utility upgrades over $2,500

Permit not required for:

• Painting

• Wallpaper

• Minor repairs/maintenance

Additional requirements:

• Contractors must hold Cedar Bluff business license

• Work subject to inspection

You can hear the Town Hall Meeting in its entirety right here: