Waterfront Construction FAQ
Building along Sarasota’s coastline and barrier islands requires a specialized understanding of local codes, environmental conditions, and regulatory processes. Waterfront homes in this region face challenges that extend far beyond standard residential construction — and navigating them successfully requires experience specific to Sarasota County and the City of Sarasota.
At Pittman Construction Group, waterfront construction is a core focus of our work, informed by local knowledge and hands-on experience.
Many Sarasota & Manatee County waterfront properties fall within FEMA flood zones, including Coastal High Hazard Areas (VE zones), which impose strict requirements on foundation systems and finished floor elevations.
We coordinate closely with surveyors, engineers, and design teams early in the process to establish compliant elevations that protect the home while maintaining the intended design.
Homes built along Sarasota’s waterfront must be engineered to meet elevated wind load requirements under the Florida Building Code, including hurricane wind resistance and impact protection standards. Structural systems, roofing, connectors, and window and door selections are all influenced by these requirements.
Our team works to ensure each home is built to meet or exceed applicable wind and structural criteria.
Sarasota’s coastal environment presents unique challenges related to salt air, humidity, sun exposure, and corrosion. Material selection plays a critical role in the long-term durability and performance of a waterfront home.
We guide clients and designers toward materials and assemblies that are well-suited for coastal conditions — balancing aesthetics, maintenance considerations, and longevity — while meeting code approval and installation standards.
Many waterfront properties in Sarasota, Siesta Key, and Longboat Key present logistical challenges, including limited access, tight setbacks, and proximity to neighboring structures or waterways.
Construction sequencing, material deliveries, staging, and site protection must be carefully planned to minimize disruption and maintain safety. Our familiarity with coastal site logistics allows us to anticipate these challenges and manage them efficiently throughout the build.
Waterfront construction in Sarasota is not simply about building to code — it’s about understanding how local regulations, environmental factors, and site conditions intersect.
Our experience navigating Sarasota’s coastal requirements allows us to guide projects from pre-construction through completion with clarity, efficiency, and confidence — delivering homes that are compliant, resilient, and thoughtfully executed.
Building on the waterfront is unlike any other type of construction—and at Pittman Construction Group, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with it. From navigating strict coastal regulations and environmental protections to engineering foundations that withstand shifting soils, salt air, and storm surge, our team brings the experience, precision, and foresight needed to build safely, beautifully, and durably along the water’s edge. Whether you’re planning a custom waterfront home, renovation, dock, or outdoor living space, we approach every project with meticulous attention to detail, proactive problem-solving, and a deep respect for the coastal environment—so your investment is protected, your vision is realized, and your finished space is built to stand the test of time.
If you have questions about waterfront construction or are ready to discuss your project, please contact our team at 941-650-5941 —we’re happy to answer your questions and ready to bring your vision to life.
