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

1. Use the Birmingham Permit Guide to identify the correct permit path before applying. 2. Apply through the Online Permit Center for permit types already migrated to the new system; use legacy paper applications for permit types not yet migrated. 3. For building permits with plan review, start with Permitting Division staff in Room 210 so staff can review the application and establish a case number. 4. Plans are routed to Planning, Fire, Building, and MPG reviewers as applicable. 5. Pay permit fees and respond to review comments. 6. After issuance, complete inspections and obtain the final approval or certificate applicable to the project.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Birmingham, AL?

Inspections can be scheduled via: Online scheduling.

City Building Permits

Birmingham, AL - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Birmingham, Alabama. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Alabama Jefferson County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

PEP states it handles the majority of permits for the City of Birmingham.

Department: City of Birmingham Department of Planning, Engineering & Permits, Permitting & Inspection Division
Address: 710 North 20th Street, Room 210, Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone: 205-254-2904
Email: OnlinePermitCenter@birminghamal.gov
Website: https://www.birminghamal.gov/government/city-departments/pep/permitting-inspection-division/city-birmingham-permitting

Online Permit Portal

Open City of Birmingham Online Permit Center

Platform: City of Birmingham Online Permit Center • Account required: Yes • Submission: In-person only

Additional resources:

Application Process

Use the Birmingham Permit Guide to identify the correct permit path before applying.
Apply through the Online Permit Center for permit types already migrated to the new system; use legacy paper applications for permit types not yet migrated.
For building permits with plan review, start with Permitting Division staff in Room 210 so staff can review the application and establish a case number.
Plans are routed to Planning, Fire, Building, and MPG reviewers as applicable.
Pay permit fees and respond to review comments.
After issuance, complete inspections and obtain the final approval or certificate applicable to the project.

Source: City of Birmingham Department of Planning, Engineering & Permits, Permitting & Inspection Division

General Requirements

Birmingham handles building permits, associated trade permits, and other permit types through PEP; trade permits can often be processed over the counter or online.

Required Documents

Application
plans for building permits needing plan review
and any permit-specific supporting documents identified in the permit guide.

Building code: The city maintains a Building Codes resource; the page states the international codes apply to construction, alterations, repair, equipment, occupancy, maintenance, removal, and demolition.
Contractor requirements: Confirm through Birmingham permitting staff; the page does not summarize all contractor rules.

Fees

Payment note: The Online Permit Center supports online application, payment, permit management, and inspection tracking.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the City of Birmingham Department of Planning, Engineering & Permits, Permitting & Inspection Division to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

Online scheduling (online)

Inspection hours: PEP department hours posted as Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Typical inspection sequence: Application, routing and review, permit issuance, inspections, final approval

Additional Resources

Building code: The city maintains a Building Codes resource; the page states the international codes apply to construction, alterations, repair, equipment, occupancy, maintenance, removal, and demolition.
Zoning information: View zoning info
License lookup guide: Alabama Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: Alabama Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
Alabama hub: Alabama Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the City of Birmingham Department of Planning, Engineering & Permits, Permitting & Inspection Division before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Birmingham, AL?: Birmingham handles building permits, associated trade permits, and other permit types through PEP; trade permits can often be processed over the counter or online.
How do I apply for a building permit in Birmingham, AL?: 1. Use the Birmingham Permit Guide to identify the correct permit path before applying. 2. Apply through the Online Permit Center for permit types already migrated to the new system; use legacy paper applications for permit types not yet migrated. 3. For building permits with plan review, start with Permitting Division staff in Room 210 so staff can review the application and establish a case number. 4. Plans are routed to Planning, Fire, Building, and MPG reviewers as applicable. 5. Pay permit fees and respond to review comments. 6. After issuance, complete inspections and obtain the final approval or certificate applicable to the project.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Birmingham, AL?: Inspections can be scheduled via: Online scheduling.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.