Semmes, AL - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

The city states its jurisdiction for permitting, planning, and policing extends one half mile outside city limits. Confirm site-specific building jurisdiction with Semmes before filing.

Department

Permitting and Inspections

Address

City Hall - Building Department, One Main Street, Semmes, AL 36575

Phone

251-649-5752

Email

permits@cityofsemmesal.gov , csargent@cityofsemmesal.gov

Website

https://cityofsemmesal.gov/departments/permitting-inspections/

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Determine the permit category on the Permitting and Inspections page and download the correct PDF application.
2. Confirm eligibility to apply. Semmes states applicants must be the property owner or a state-board-certified contractor with a City of Semmes business license.
3. Submit the completed application, stamped plans or drawings, and any required subcontractor, septic, or planning materials to the Building Department.
4. For commercial projects, complete any required site-plan process with the Planning Department before permit application.
5. Provide one hard copy and one electronic PDF file of plans when required, and submit Fire Department review materials where applicable.
6. After review and approval, pay through the city process or online payment portal and obtain the permit.
7. Keep stamped approved plans and the permit on site for inspections.

Source: Permitting and Inspections

General Requirements

Semmes publishes application packages for new residential, additions, new commercial, roofing, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, signs, swimming pools, right-of-way, driveways, tree removal, and demolition.

Required Documents

• Complete application
• Architect- or engineer-stamped plans
• Hard-copy and PDF plan sets
• Subcontractor forms
• Septic documentation (for certain projects)
• Planning compliance (for commercial site plans)

Building code

Semmes lists 2018 IBC, 2018 IRC, 2018 IMC, 2020 NEC, 2018 IECC, 2018 IPC, 2018 ISPSC, 2018 IEBC, and 2018 Wood Frame Construction Manual.

Owner-builder

A property owner may apply for a residential building permit if certain requirements are met, but must sign an affidavit claiming exemption from licensing requirements and must meet with the Building Inspector to review the process and expectations.

Contractor requirements

Only licensed general contractors may apply for new or modified commercial building permits. Alabama Home Builders license is required for residential building permits unless the property-owner exemption applies. Applicants also need a City of Semmes business license.

Fees

Minimum permit fee

Refer to the current city fee schedule.

Plan check fee

Included in the published fee schedule by project type.

Permit fee formula

Mixed fee schedule by permit type, including valuation-based building fees and flat or unit-based trade and miscellaneous permit charges.

Reinspection fee

Included in the published fee schedule where applicable.

Payment note

Semmes provides a Municipal Online Payments portal for permit payment after city review.

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

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the Permitting and Inspections to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• Building Department (in-person)

Inspection hours

Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Time windows

Business hours.

Typical inspection sequence: Inspections follow the approved permit and stamped plans. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing inspection cards are published by the city for field use.

Additional Resources

• Building code: Semmes lists 2018 IBC, 2018 IRC, 2018 IMC, 2020 NEC, 2018 IECC, 2018 IPC, 2018 ISPSC, 2018 IEBC, and 2018 Wood Frame Construction Manual.
• Zoning information: View zoning info
• Building Code Amendments & Inspection Order
• New Residential
• New Commercial
• License lookup guide: Alabama Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Alabama Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Alabama hub: Alabama Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Semmes Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Semmes, AL?

Semmes publishes application packages for new residential, additions, new commercial, roofing, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, signs, swimming pools, right-of-way, driveways, tree removal, and demolition.

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

The minimum permit fee is Refer to the current city fee schedule.. Fees are calculated as: Mixed fee schedule by permit type, including valuation-based building fees and flat or unit-based trade and miscellaneous permit charges.. Plan check fee: Included in the published fee schedule by project type..

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

1. Determine the permit category on the Permitting and Inspections page and download the correct PDF application. 2. Confirm eligibility to apply. Semmes states applicants must be the property owner or a state-board-certified contractor with a City of Semmes business license. 3. Submit the completed application, stamped plans or drawings, and any required subcontractor, septic, or planning materials to the Building Department. 4. For commercial projects, complete any required site-plan process with the Planning Department before permit application. 5. Provide one hard copy and one electronic PDF file of plans when required, and submit Fire Department review materials where applicable. 6. After review and approval, pay through the city process or online payment portal and obtain the permit. 7. Keep stamped approved plans and the permit on site for inspections.

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

Inspections can be scheduled via: Building Department.

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