Outer Banks Waterfront Ownership
Soundfront: These properties are located directly on the various sounds (like the Currituck, Albemarle, or Pamlico Sounds) on the western side of the barrier islands. They often have private docks and offer views of spectacular sunsets.
Canalfront: Found in select neighborhoods like Colington Harbour and Old Nags Head Cove, these properties are along navigable canals, providing direct boat access to the sound.
CREEKFRONT
Riverfront
Pondfront
lakefront
Regulations for Building Waterfront Property
Building or renovating a waterfront home on the Outer Banks is subject to strict environmental and building codes to mitigate flood risk and protect the coastline.
CAMA Permit: Projects on the oceanfront, sound, or a canal often require a Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) permit from the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management.
Flood Zones and Elevation: All of the Outer Banks is in some type of flood zone, making flood insurance necessary for most properties.
New construction is typically required to have the first floor elevated on pilings, often 9 to 10 feet above sea level, to qualify for minimal flood insurance premiums.
VE Zones (Wave Velocity Zones) are common for oceanfront and soundfront properties and have the strictest building requirements.
Oceanfront Setbacks: The Coastal Resources Commission enforces oceanfront setback requirements, which mandate a minimum distance a structure must be set back from the first line of stable, natural vegetation. These rules aim to reduce risk to property from erosion and storms.
Cobra Zones