Geneva, AL - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

City limits of Geneva; city building department handles construction permits.

Department

City of Geneva Building Department

Address

606 E Magnolia Ave, Geneva, AL 36340-2420

Phone

(334) 684-2485

Website

https://www.genevaal.gov/building-department

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Complete the City of Geneva building permit application from the city forms page.
2. Attach required information, including owner, contractor, business license number, plans or plat map, and project details.
3. Submit the application packet as directed by the city clerk and wait for review by the building department.
4. The city clerk routes permit fee coordination and permit issuance occurs when requirements are met.
5. Schedule inspections with 24-hour notice for each inspection.

Source: City of Geneva Building Department

General Requirements

Permits are required for construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, move, demolition, change of occupancy, and mobile home placement.

Required Documents

• Building permit application
• Plans and plot plans
• Contractor name and phone
• City business license number
• Subcontractors list (if used)
• Plat map attachment
• Floodway, septic, and well disclosures from the permit form

Building code

City ordinances and state regulations; city permit form references city ordinance 05-96-95 for electrical work and Southern Standard Building Codes.

Owner-builder

Property owner signature is required if the request is submitted by someone else.

Contractor requirements

Subcontractors must have a current City of Geneva business license; where state certificates or permits are required, copies must be provided.

Fees

Minimum permit fee

$250.00

Payment note

City payment page applies a 4.5 percent service fee or $2.00 minimum, whichever is greater.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the City of Geneva Building Department to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

Scheduling deadline

24-hour notice is required for each inspection.

Typical inspection sequence: Permit is approved and issued by the building inspector, then inspections occur as the project progresses.

Additional Resources

• Building code: City ordinances and state regulations; city permit form references city ordinance 05-96-95 for electrical work and Southern Standard Building Codes.
• Zoning information: View zoning info
• Comprehensive plan
• Planning page
• License lookup guide: Alabama Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Alabama Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Alabama hub: Alabama Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Geneva Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Geneva, AL?

Permits are required for construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, move, demolition, change of occupancy, and mobile home placement.

How much does a building permit cost in Geneva, AL?

The minimum permit fee is $250.00.

How do I apply for a building permit in Geneva, AL?

1. Complete the City of Geneva building permit application from the city forms page. 2. Attach required information, including owner, contractor, business license number, plans or plat map, and project details. 3. Submit the application packet as directed by the city clerk and wait for review by the building department. 4. The city clerk routes permit fee coordination and permit issuance occurs when requirements are met. 5. Schedule inspections with 24-hour notice for each inspection.