Some counties welcome barndominiums, but metro and suburban areas may restrict them.
The State Building Code applies to state buildings, schools, hotels with 15+ bedrooms, and theaters. For most residential and commercial construction, county regulations apply. Each county has its own fee schedule and exceptions.
Primary Code
IBC / IRC
Code Version
2021 IBC (amended March 2025 with 2024 IBC provisions)
Adoption Level
Local Only
Statewide Enforcement
No
Requirements vary significantly by county. Baldwin County requires all residential plans stamped by a design professional. All non-residential construction requires plans stamped by both architect and engineer.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Agricultural buildings are generally exempt from the home builders licensure requirements. Specific permit exemptions vary by county.
Varies by county. Some counties exempt small accessory structures under 200 sq ft. Typical local threshold is 120 sq ft.
Gulf Coast counties (Mobile, Baldwin) require higher wind load ratings up to 150 mph. Northern Alabama has minimal snow loads but is in a moderate seismic zone.
Wind Load
105–150 mph
high zone
Snow Load
0–5 psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC
Version
2021 IECC
Energy code enforcement varies by county. Most urban counties enforce; many rural counties do not.
License Type
Home Builders Licensure Board license
Residential builders must be licensed through the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board. Commercial contractors need appropriate licensing.
Front
25–35 ft
Side
10–15 ft
Rear
15–25 ft
Setbacks vary by county and zoning district. Agricultural zones typically have larger setbacks.
Foundation engineering required in most counties with active permitting. Soil conditions vary from clay to sandy loam.
Permitted as accessory structures in most counties. Some rural counties have minimal requirements for agricultural shops.
Agricultural buildings generally exempt from building permits in most Alabama counties when used exclusively for farming.
Acceptance varies. Rural counties in central and south Alabama are more flexible. Urban counties near Birmingham and Huntsville may have aesthetic restrictions.
Detached garages typically require permits in incorporated areas. Rural counties may be more lenient for small structures.
Full IBC compliance required. Plans must be stamped by architect and engineer in most counties.
HOA restrictions are common in suburban developments near Birmingham, Huntsville, and coastal areas. Metal building homes are frequently restricted in planned subdivisions.
Coastal counties (Mobile, Baldwin) have significant flood zone requirements. Buildings in flood zones must be elevated above BFE.
Key counties with specific permit information for Alabama.
Enforces IBC/IRC. Requires stamped plans for all new construction.
Typical fees: $500 – $3,000
All residential plans must be stamped by a licensed design professional. High wind load requirements.
Typical fees: $400 – $3,500
Ag Exemption AvailableEnforces IBC with local amendments. Hurricane wind load requirements apply.
Typical fees: $400 – $3,000
Full code enforcement. Plan review required.
Typical fees: $500 – $3,500
Enhanced wind load requirements after 2011 tornado. Strict code enforcement.
Typical fees: $300 – $2,500
Verify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
