Do I need a permit to build a deck in Birmingham, AL?

Yes. In Birmingham, any deck that is attached to your home or that is 30 inches or more above grade requires a building permit. You will need to submit a site plan showing the deck's location on the lot, its dimensions, and its distance from all property lines. The site plan must confirm the deck meets the setback requirements for your zoning district. Decks that are covered or that include electrical work (lighting, outlets) may also require separate electrical permits. Unpermitted decks can create problems when you sell your home, and the city can issue a stop-work order or require demolition if work is done without approval. Starting with a complete, accurate site plan is the best way to avoid delays.

How much does a building permit cost in Birmingham, Alabama?

Birmingham permit fees are calculated based on the estimated fair market value of the construction project. For most residential projects, the fee schedule uses a sliding scale, and plan review fees are collected at the time of submission. As a rough benchmark, a small deck or shed permit might cost $75 to $200, while a room addition or ADU could run $300 to $800 or more depending on project value. There may also be separate fees for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits if those trades are involved. Fees are set by the city and can change, so it is best to contact the Birmingham Building, Safety and Permits Department directly or check the current fee schedule on the city's website before budgeting your project.

How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Birmingham?

For standard residential projects in Birmingham, plan review typically takes 5 to 15 business days after a complete application is submitted. Projects that involve historic district review, floodplain management, or major structural work can take 4 to 8 weeks or longer. Incomplete applications, missing site plan details, or setback violations will trigger a correction notice and restart the review clock. Submitting a thorough, to-scale site plan with all required information is the single most effective way to avoid delays. If your project is in one of Birmingham's historic overlay districts, budget extra time for the Historic Preservation Commission's Certificate of Appropriateness review before the building permit can be issued.

What does Birmingham require on a residential site plan?

Birmingham's Building, Safety and Permits Department expects a residential site plan to include: the lot's legal dimensions and total square footage, a north arrow, the street name and address, the location and dimensions of all existing structures on the property, the proposed construction footprint with dimensions, setback distances from the proposed and existing structures to all property lines, driveways and walkways, any recorded easements or rights-of-way, and the zoning district. For projects near a floodplain, the Base Flood Elevation and finished floor elevation must also be shown. The plan should be drawn to a recognizable scale (such as 1 inch = 20 feet) so reviewers can verify compliance without guessing at distances.

Can I draw my own site plan in Birmingham, or do I need a licensed surveyor?

For most standard residential projects in Birmingham, you are not required to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to prepare your site plan. Homeowners and contractors can draw their own site plans, provided the drawing is accurate, to scale, and includes all information required by the Building, Safety and Permits Department. However, if your project involves significant grading, a retaining wall over four feet, structural engineering, or work in a floodplain, the city may require stamped drawings from a licensed professional. For historic district projects, the Historic Preservation Commission may have additional documentation standards. Using a tool like Site Plan Creator helps ensure your self-prepared site plan meets Birmingham's format and content requirements.

What are the setback requirements for residential properties in Birmingham, AL?

Setbacks in Birmingham vary by zoning district. In common residential zones (R-1 through R-4), typical setbacks are 25 to 35 feet from the front property line, 5 to 10 feet from each side property line, and 20 to 25 feet from the rear property line. Corner lots often face a larger side street setback of around 15 feet. Accessory structures such as sheds and detached garages are generally allowed closer to rear and side lines, sometimes as little as 3 to 5 feet, but must stay outside any utility easements. Always verify your specific parcel's setbacks through the City of Birmingham's Planning, Engineering and Permits Department or the city's online GIS resources, since overlay districts and lot-specific conditions can affect the numbers.

Where do I submit a site plan and permit application in Birmingham?

You can submit a residential building permit application to the City of Birmingham Building, Safety and Permits Department either in person at City Hall (710 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203) or through the city's online permitting portal for eligible project types. In-person submissions allow you to ask questions and confirm completeness before leaving. The online portal is convenient for straightforward projects and allows you to track review status. When submitting, bring or upload your completed permit application, your site plan, construction drawings, and any supplemental documents such as contractor license copies or historic district approvals. The department's main line is (205) 254-2831 if you need to confirm current submission options.

What happens if I build without a permit in Birmingham, AL?

Building without a required permit in Birmingham can result in a stop-work order, financial penalties, and a requirement to remove or demolish unpermitted work at your own expense. The city's code enforcement officers can issue citations, and fines can accumulate daily until the violation is resolved. Unpermitted structures also create serious problems when you try to sell your home, as lenders and buyers will typically require proof of permits and inspections for any improvements. In some cases, you may be able to obtain an after-the-fact permit, but this often involves additional fees, inspections of exposed framing, and no guarantee of approval. It is always less expensive and less stressful to pull the permit before you start.

Are ADUs allowed in Birmingham, and what site plan do I need?

Yes, Birmingham updated its zoning ordinance to permit Accessory Dwelling Units in certain residential zoning districts. An ADU can be a detached backyard cottage, a garage apartment, or an attached secondary unit. To get a permit, you must submit a site plan showing the primary dwelling, the proposed ADU footprint, all setback distances, parking spaces (Birmingham typically requires at least one off-street space per unit), and utility connections. The ADU must comply with the setback requirements for your zoning district, and the total lot coverage including both structures cannot exceed the maximum allowed in your zone. If your property is in a historic district, additional review is required. Contact the Birmingham Planning, Engineering and Permits Department to confirm ADU eligibility for your specific parcel.

Does Birmingham have floodplain rules that affect my site plan?

Yes. Portions of Birmingham, particularly areas near Village Creek, Five Mile Creek, and other waterways, fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. If your property is in or adjacent to a floodplain, your site plan must include the Base Flood Elevation, the proposed finished floor elevation of any new structure, and documentation showing compliance with Birmingham's floodplain management ordinance. New construction in a floodplain may need to be elevated above the Base Flood Elevation, and certain types of development may be restricted or prohibited. You can check your property's flood zone designation at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov). The city's floodplain administrator can answer specific questions about how floodplain rules affect your project.

Site Plan Requirements in Birmingham, AL (Permit Guide)

By Site Plan Creator Team • May 31, 2026

Birmingham, Alabama homeowners face specific site plan and permit requirements before starting most residential construction projects. This guide covers what triggers a permit, typical setback rules, and how to navigate the City of Birmingham's building permit process with confidence.

Site plan requirements for residential properties in Birmingham, Alabama

Residential Site Plans and Building Permits in Birmingham, AL

Birmingham is a city of diverse neighborhoods, from the historic Southside and Avondale districts to newer suburban pockets near Hoover and Vestavia Hills. Whether you own a bungalow in Forest Park or a ranch-style home in Roebuck, the City of Birmingham requires a site plan as part of nearly every residential building permit application. Understanding what the city needs, and preparing a complete, accurate site plan from the start, can mean the difference between a smooth approval and weeks of costly back-and-forth with the Building, Safety and Permits Department.

What Is a Residential Site Plan and Why Does Birmingham Require One?

A residential site plan is a scaled, bird's-eye drawing of your property that shows the lot boundaries, existing structures, proposed construction, setbacks from property lines, driveways, easements, and other relevant features. Birmingham's Building, Safety and Permits Department uses the site plan to verify that your project complies with the city's zoning ordinance, the Alabama State Building Code, and applicable floodplain regulations before issuing a permit.

Without an approved site plan, inspectors have no baseline to confirm that a new deck, addition, or accessory structure is located where it should be. The city also uses site plans to protect neighbors, manage stormwater, and ensure that development does not encroach on utility easements or public rights-of-way.

Common Residential Projects That Require a Permit in Birmingham

The following projects almost always trigger a building permit requirement in Birmingham:

Decks and patios: Any attached or detached deck over 30 inches above grade requires a permit. Covered patios and pergolas attached to the home are also regulated.
Sheds and accessory structures: Detached structures larger than 144 square feet (roughly 12 x 12 feet) require a permit. Smaller sheds may still need to meet setback rules even without a full permit.
Swimming pools: Both in-ground and above-ground pools over 24 inches deep require a permit and must comply with barrier/fence requirements under the Alabama State Building Code.
Fences: Fences over six feet in height require a permit in most residential zones. Corner lots have additional sight-line restrictions.
Room additions: Any addition to the living area of a home, including sunrooms, garage conversions, and enclosed porches, requires a full building permit with architectural and site plan documents.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Birmingham updated its zoning code to allow ADUs in certain residential zones. A complete site plan showing the primary dwelling and the proposed ADU footprint, setbacks, and parking is required.
Driveways: New driveways or significant expansions that alter drainage patterns or connect to a public street may require a permit and a grading/drainage review.
Retaining walls: Walls over four feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing) require a permit and often an engineered plan.

Birmingham Zoning Quirks and Local Considerations

Birmingham's zoning landscape has several features that homeowners should be aware of before submitting a permit application.

Historic Districts

Birmingham has several locally designated historic districts, including portions of Ensley, Avondale, and the Southside. Properties within these districts must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Birmingham Historic Preservation Commission before a building permit can be issued for exterior work. This adds a review step that can take several additional weeks.

Floodplain Regulations

Portions of Birmingham lie within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas, particularly near Village Creek and the Five Mile Creek watershed. If your property is in or near a floodplain, your site plan must show the Base Flood Elevation, finished floor elevation of any new structure, and compliance with the city's floodplain management ordinance. You can check your property's flood zone status using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

Jefferson County Coordination

Birmingham is the county seat of Jefferson County. Some unincorporated areas just outside city limits fall under Jefferson County's jurisdiction rather than the city's. Always confirm whether your address is within Birmingham city limits before submitting to the city's permit office.

Impervious Surface and Stormwater

Birmingham has adopted stormwater management requirements that limit how much of a residential lot can be covered by impervious surfaces (roofs, concrete, asphalt, pavers). Adding a large patio, driveway extension, or accessory structure may trigger a stormwater review if it pushes your lot coverage over the threshold defined in your zoning district.

Typical Setback Requirements in Birmingham

Setbacks vary by zoning district, but the following ranges are representative of common residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3, and R-4) in Birmingham:

Front setback: 25 to 35 feet from the front property line
Side setback: 5 to 10 feet per side (corner lots may have a 15-foot side street setback)
Rear setback: 20 to 25 feet from the rear property line
Accessory structures: Often allowed closer to rear and side lines (as little as 3 to 5 feet) but must remain outside easements

Always verify the specific setbacks for your parcel and zoning district through the City of Birmingham Land Use and Zoning division before finalizing your site plan.

How to Submit a Permit Application in Birmingham

Step 1: Determine Your Zoning District and Requirements

Look up your parcel on the city's online GIS portal or contact the Planning, Engineering and Permits Department to confirm your zoning district and any overlay districts (historic, floodplain, etc.) that apply.

Step 2: Prepare Your Site Plan

Your site plan should be drawn to scale and include: lot dimensions and total area, north arrow, all existing structures with dimensions, proposed construction footprint, distances from all structures to property lines, driveways and walkways, easements, and the street name. For most residential projects, a professionally prepared but not necessarily engineer-stamped site plan is acceptable. Tools like Site Plan Creator make it easy to produce a clean, to-scale drawing that meets Birmingham's submittal standards.

Step 3: Complete the Permit Application

Download or pick up the residential building permit application from the Birmingham Building, Safety and Permits Department. Attach your site plan, construction drawings, and any required supporting documents (energy compliance forms, contractor license information, etc.).

Step 4: Submit and Pay Fees

Applications can be submitted in person at City Hall or, for many project types, through the city's online permitting portal. Permit fees are based on the estimated construction value. Plan review fees are typically collected at submission.

Step 5: Plan Review and Approval

Residential plan review in Birmingham typically takes 5 to 15 business days for straightforward projects. Complex projects, those in historic districts, or those requiring floodplain review can take 4 to 8 weeks or longer. You will be notified of approval or of any corrections needed.

Common Reasons Birmingham Permit Applications Are Rejected

Site plan not drawn to scale or missing dimensions
Proposed structure does not meet required setbacks
Missing information about existing structures on the lot
No indication of easements or rights-of-way
Failure to address floodplain or stormwater requirements
Incomplete contractor license information
Historic district Certificate of Appropriateness not attached
Construction value underestimated, leading to incorrect fee calculation

For reference on building code standards applicable statewide, the Alabama Building Commission maintains the current adopted codes and amendments.

Get Your Birmingham Site Plan Right the First Time

Navigating Birmingham's permit process is straightforward when your site plan is complete, accurate, and drawn to scale. Site Plan Creator is designed for homeowners, contractors, and small builders who need a professional-quality residential site plan without hiring a surveyor for every project. Start your Birmingham site plan today and move your project forward with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Birmingham, AL?: Yes. In Birmingham, any deck that is attached to your home or that is 30 inches or more above grade requires a building permit. You will need to submit a site plan showing the deck's location on the lot, its dimensions, and its distance from all property lines. The site plan must confirm the deck meets the setback requirements for your zoning district. Decks that are covered or that include electrical work (lighting, outlets) may also require separate electrical permits. Unpermitted decks can create problems when you sell your home, and the city can issue a stop-work order or require demolition if work is done without approval. Starting with a complete, accurate site plan is the best way to avoid delays.
How much does a building permit cost in Birmingham, Alabama?: Birmingham permit fees are calculated based on the estimated fair market value of the construction project. For most residential projects, the fee schedule uses a sliding scale, and plan review fees are collected at the time of submission. As a rough benchmark, a small deck or shed permit might cost $75 to $200, while a room addition or ADU could run $300 to $800 or more depending on project value. There may also be separate fees for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits if those trades are involved. Fees are set by the city and can change, so it is best to contact the Birmingham Building, Safety and Permits Department directly or check the current fee schedule on the city's website before budgeting your project.
How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Birmingham?: For standard residential projects in Birmingham, plan review typically takes 5 to 15 business days after a complete application is submitted. Projects that involve historic district review, floodplain management, or major structural work can take 4 to 8 weeks or longer. Incomplete applications, missing site plan details, or setback violations will trigger a correction notice and restart the review clock. Submitting a thorough, to-scale site plan with all required information is the single most effective way to avoid delays. If your project is in one of Birmingham's historic overlay districts, budget extra time for the Historic Preservation Commission's Certificate of Appropriateness review before the building permit can be issued.
What does Birmingham require on a residential site plan?: Birmingham's Building, Safety and Permits Department expects a residential site plan to include: the lot's legal dimensions and total square footage, a north arrow, the street name and address, the location and dimensions of all existing structures on the property, the proposed construction footprint with dimensions, setback distances from the proposed and existing structures to all property lines, driveways and walkways, any recorded easements or rights-of-way, and the zoning district. For projects near a floodplain, the Base Flood Elevation and finished floor elevation must also be shown. The plan should be drawn to a recognizable scale (such as 1 inch = 20 feet) so reviewers can verify compliance without guessing at distances.
Can I draw my own site plan in Birmingham, or do I need a licensed surveyor?: For most standard residential projects in Birmingham, you are not required to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to prepare your site plan. Homeowners and contractors can draw their own site plans, provided the drawing is accurate, to scale, and includes all information required by the Building, Safety and Permits Department. However, if your project involves significant grading, a retaining wall over four feet, structural engineering, or work in a floodplain, the city may require stamped drawings from a licensed professional. For historic district projects, the Historic Preservation Commission may have additional documentation standards. Using a tool like Site Plan Creator helps ensure your self-prepared site plan meets Birmingham's format and content requirements.
What are the setback requirements for residential properties in Birmingham, AL?: Setbacks in Birmingham vary by zoning district. In common residential zones (R-1 through R-4), typical setbacks are 25 to 35 feet from the front property line, 5 to 10 feet from each side property line, and 20 to 25 feet from the rear property line. Corner lots often face a larger side street setback of around 15 feet. Accessory structures such as sheds and detached garages are generally allowed closer to rear and side lines, sometimes as little as 3 to 5 feet, but must stay outside any utility easements. Always verify your specific parcel's setbacks through the City of Birmingham's Planning, Engineering and Permits Department or the city's online GIS resources, since overlay districts and lot-specific conditions can affect the numbers.
Where do I submit a site plan and permit application in Birmingham?: You can submit a residential building permit application to the City of Birmingham Building, Safety and Permits Department either in person at City Hall (710 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203) or through the city's online permitting portal for eligible project types. In-person submissions allow you to ask questions and confirm completeness before leaving. The online portal is convenient for straightforward projects and allows you to track review status. When submitting, bring or upload your completed permit application, your site plan, construction drawings, and any supplemental documents such as contractor license copies or historic district approvals. The department's main line is (205) 254-2831 if you need to confirm current submission options.
What happens if I build without a permit in Birmingham, AL?: Building without a required permit in Birmingham can result in a stop-work order, financial penalties, and a requirement to remove or demolish unpermitted work at your own expense. The city's code enforcement officers can issue citations, and fines can accumulate daily until the violation is resolved. Unpermitted structures also create serious problems when you try to sell your home, as lenders and buyers will typically require proof of permits and inspections for any improvements. In some cases, you may be able to obtain an after-the-fact permit, but this often involves additional fees, inspections of exposed framing, and no guarantee of approval. It is always less expensive and less stressful to pull the permit before you start.
Are ADUs allowed in Birmingham, and what site plan do I need?: Yes, Birmingham updated its zoning ordinance to permit Accessory Dwelling Units in certain residential zoning districts. An ADU can be a detached backyard cottage, a garage apartment, or an attached secondary unit. To get a permit, you must submit a site plan showing the primary dwelling, the proposed ADU footprint, all setback distances, parking spaces (Birmingham typically requires at least one off-street space per unit), and utility connections. The ADU must comply with the setback requirements for your zoning district, and the total lot coverage including both structures cannot exceed the maximum allowed in your zone. If your property is in a historic district, additional review is required. Contact the Birmingham Planning, Engineering and Permits Department to confirm ADU eligibility for your specific parcel.
Does Birmingham have floodplain rules that affect my site plan?: Yes. Portions of Birmingham, particularly areas near Village Creek, Five Mile Creek, and other waterways, fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. If your property is in or adjacent to a floodplain, your site plan must include the Base Flood Elevation, the proposed finished floor elevation of any new structure, and documentation showing compliance with Birmingham's floodplain management ordinance. New construction in a floodplain may need to be elevated above the Base Flood Elevation, and certain types of development may be restricted or prohibited. You can check your property's flood zone designation at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov). The city's floodplain administrator can answer specific questions about how floodplain rules affect your project.

How to Create a Site Plan in Birmingham

Confirm Zoning and Overlay Districts: Before drawing anything, look up your parcel on Birmingham's GIS portal or contact the Planning, Engineering and Permits Department to confirm your zoning district, applicable setbacks, and any overlay districts such as historic preservation or floodplain areas. Knowing these details upfront prevents costly redesigns after submission. If your property is in a historic district, plan for an additional Certificate of Appropriateness review from the Birmingham Historic Preservation Commission before a building permit can be issued.
Prepare a To-Scale Site Plan: Create a site plan drawn to a standard scale (such as 1 inch = 20 feet) that shows your lot boundaries with dimensions, a north arrow, the street name, all existing structures with their dimensions and distances to property lines, the proposed construction footprint, easements, and driveways. For floodplain properties, include the Base Flood Elevation and finished floor elevation. Site Plan Creator simplifies this process and produces a clean, reviewable drawing that meets Birmingham's submittal standards without requiring surveying software.
Complete the Permit Application Package: Download the residential building permit application from the Birmingham Building, Safety and Permits Department website or pick one up at City Hall. Attach your site plan, construction drawings or sketches, contractor license documentation if applicable, and any supplemental forms required for your project type (energy compliance, floodplain elevation certificate, etc.). Double-check that every required field is filled in and that your construction value estimate is accurate, since underestimating can delay processing.
Submit Application and Pay Fees: Submit your complete application package in person at the Building, Safety and Permits Department at 710 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203, or use the city's online permitting portal if your project type is eligible. Pay the required plan review and permit fees at submission. Keep copies of everything you submit. If submitting in person, ask the counter staff to confirm your application is complete before you leave to avoid a rejection notice for a simple missing document.
Respond to Corrections and Receive Approval: Standard residential plan review in Birmingham takes 5 to 15 business days. If reviewers identify deficiencies, such as a setback violation, missing dimension, or incomplete contractor information, you will receive a correction notice. Address each item clearly and resubmit promptly. Once all corrections are resolved and the permit is approved, post your permit card at the job site as required and schedule inspections at the stages specified on your permit before covering any work.