Fairhope council approves Hilltop North annexation and R‑1 zoning for 14‑acre tract

The Fairhope City Council voted to annex and zone approximately 14 acres at 6796 Twin Beach Road to R‑1 (low‑density single‑family) during a special-call meeting, approving the final adoption of the Hilltop North ordinance.

Hunter, city planning staff, said the property is currently in the county and zoned as a holding district; the R‑1 request includes dimensional requirements of 15,000 square foot minimum lots and 100‑foot widths. Hunter said the planning commission unanimously recommended approval and staff urged the council to limit development to single‑family homes. “This is limited to single family residential, one house per lot,” Hunter said, describing wetlands on the eastern side of the parcel and an existing nonconforming cell tower that will influence future subdivision layout.

Council members asked about the cell tower and whether removal would allow more lots. Hunter said the tower is a nonconforming use that could remain in place and that removal would not automatically permit a replacement of that scale; any future change would require subdivision review and public hearings. Council members thanked developers for providing a plat and noted the thoroughness of the submittal.

The council moved for final adoption, the clerk polled the body with recorded 'Aye' responses across seats, and the motion passed.

The ordinance sets the underlying zoning as R‑1 concurrent with annexation and limits uses to those permitted in R‑1 districts, such as single‑family residences and incidental common space. Staff noted future subdivision plans will require separate public review if developers seek additional entitlements or a change from the single‑family limitation.

The action concludes the zoning case that was introduced at the council’s Nov. 10 meeting; interested parties may review the video and planning documents at the city planning office.