Alabama building departments

How permitting works in Alabama

Local permit programs; state residential code from 2027. Alabama has no statewide permit office for private homes. Cities and any county that has adopted a code by resolution issue permits, and residential work over $10,000 (over $2,500 for roofing) needs a builder licensed by the Home Builders Licensure Board.

A county name is only a geographic starting point. Depending on the address, a city, town, borough, township, or county office may issue your permit. How to check who issues your permit.

Alabama building codes and licensing

Residential code

Alabama Residential Building Code, adopted by the Home Builders Licensure Board; the board applies the 2015 IRC where no local code exists

Adopted by

Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board (Alabama Residential Building Code Division) (opens in a new tab)

Outside city limits

State law lets a county commission adopt building codes for unincorporated areas by resolution, effective 120 days after adoption. Where no local code exists, the licensing board applies the 2015 IRC when it investigates complaints against licensed builders.

Contractor licensing

A home builders license is required to build, remodel, or repair a residence (up to three floors and four units) for another person when the job exceeds $10,000, or $2,500 for residential roofing. Owners may work on their own residence or other real estate holdings. Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board (opens in a new tab)

What is different in Alabama

• Act 2024-443 moved residential code authority from ADECA to the Home Builders Licensure Board. Beginning January 1, 2027, residential builders must build to the Alabama Residential Building Code or the local residential code where one exists.
• The state residential and energy codes are enforced only by local jurisdictions that run permit and inspection programs. Local residential codes adopted after January 1, 2027 must meet the state minimums.
• Licensed home builders must put their license number on contracts and in advertising, including vehicle signage, websites, and social media (effective March 17, 2025).

Alabama department guides

Browse Alabama counties

Bold counties have at least one researched department guide.

Planning a project in Alabama?

Start with what the model codes say, then confirm local rules with the department that serves your address.

• Do I Need a Permit for a Deck
• Do I Need a Permit for a Fence
• Do I Need a Permit for a Shed
• Do I Need a Permit to Replace a Roof
• Do I Need a Permit to Replace a Water Heater
• Do I Need a Permit for a Kitchen Remodel
• How Much Does a Building Permit Cost
• Building Inspection Stages Explained

Sources

1. Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board
2. Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board – Law and Rules, effective Oct. 1, 2025 (rules effective Nov. 14, 2025)
3. Alabama HBLB – Reg Changes Clarify Investigation Standards (2015 IRC)
4. Alabama HBLB – How to Get Licensed
5. Alabama HBLB – Building Officials
6. U.S. DOE Building Energy Codes Program – Alabama status
7. Alabama Examiners of Public Accounts – Home Builders Licensure Board Sunset Report

State facts checked October 21, 2026. Local amendments can change these rules; the department serving your address has the final word.