Birmingham Alabama Permitting and Inspection Guide

Birmingham building permits are processed through the Permitting Division, with staff routing plans to Planning, Fire, Building, and mechanical, plumbing, and gas reviewers when review is required.

Permit takeaway

Birmingham's Permitting Division processes building and associated trade permits, with miscellaneous repairs and minor projects often processed over the counter.

Zoning and placement

Building permits with plans may be routed to Planning, Fire Department, Building, and mechanical, plumbing, and gas plan reviewers depending on scope.

Building and trade review

Trade permits are typically processed over the counter and can also be processed online through Birmingham's Online Permit Center.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if the project needs plan review, includes trade permits, involves fire review, or may qualify as a minor repair or miscellaneous project.

Documents to prepare

• Permit application
• Project plans when required
• Case number
• Trade permit details
• Online Permit Center account if applying online

Inspection planning

• Start with Permitting Division intake
• Receive case number
• Complete required routing reviews
• Pay and print permit through online portal when applicable
• Track inspections online

Official sources

• Birmingham Permitting and Inspection Division
• Birmingham Online Permit Center
• Birmingham Building Permits and Inspections

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.