Bolthole Index

Baldwin County, Alabama

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Baldwin County, Alabama

62Index Score / 100
#61 of 67 in Alabama

Baldwin County, Alabama requires a building permit for regulated construction and electrical, mechanical or plumbing work in the County Building Department's jurisdiction, which covers most unincorporated land1. County zoning applies in only some unincorporated areas, while Foley, Bay Minette and Elberta zone their own land2345. Septic permits come from the Baldwin County Health Department6.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for regulated construction in the County Building Department's jurisdiction (most unincorporated land)1
Zoning
County zoning in some, but not all, unincorporated areas; Foley, Bay Minette and Elberta zone their own land2345
Septic permit
Required for a new system or repairs; handled by the Baldwin County Health Department67
Owner-builder
A licensing exemption may apply, but the County permit is still required8
RV living
Long-term private-land occupancy could not be confirmed; park models are temporary dwellings under state rules9
Manufactured home
In a zoned area, zoning site-plan approval comes before the building permit10
County-road driveway
Permit required for driveway, turnout or culvert work on a County-maintained road; minor residential driveways carry no fee1112
Flood hazard area
Development requires floodplain documents and a $75 flood permit fee13
Subdivision
Regulated; six or more lots with new roads or drainage need a Sketch Plan14

Who to call

Building permits

Baldwin County Building Department

Issues building permits and inspects new construction and most alterations in unincorporated Baldwin County and the Towns of Elberta, Magnolia Springs and Perdido Beach

251-580-1695

Online permits →

Zoning

Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department

Implements the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance in zoned unincorporated areas of the county

251-580-1695

Online permits →

Health department

Baldwin County Health Department (Environmental and Vital Statistics)

Onsite sewage (septic) permitting for Baldwin County under the Alabama Department of Public Health program

251-947-3618

22251 Palmer Street, P.O. Box 369, Robertsdale, Alabama 36567

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 16, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Baldwin County, Alabama?

Baldwin County requires a building permit for construction and for regulated building, electrical, mechanical or plumbing work within the County Building Department's jurisdiction1. That jurisdiction covers most unincorporated land plus the towns of Elberta, Magnolia Springs and Perdido Beach; Silverhill and Summerdale issue permits in their police-jurisdiction areas, and land inside other city limits goes to that city15. Inside Foley, the city issues its own building permits16. The county enforces building codes that took effect March 5, 202517. Required inspections vary by project, and regulated work cannot be covered until each required inspection is approved18. The owner-builder exemption concerns contractor licensing, not the County permit: the owner must return the exemption form before the permit is issued8.

Who handles Baldwin County building permits, and how do you reach them?

The Baldwin County Building Department issues County building permits and inspects work in its jurisdiction19. Call 251-580-1695 or use the CitizenServe portal the department links19. After gathering the required documents, applicants submit through CitizenServe, and most application types can also be filed in person at a County permitting office20. An application is not a valid permit until its fees are paid and an issue date is posted20. Zoning questions go to the Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department at the same number and portal21. Septic is separate: contact the Baldwin County Health Department at 251-947-3618 or 22251 Palmer Street, P.O. Box 369, Robertsdale, Alabama 3656722.

Does Baldwin County have zoning?

Baldwin County administers zoning in portions of unincorporated Baldwin County, and some areas are unzoned and outside the County Commission's planning and zoning authority2. Unlike the counties around it in Alabama, Baldwin County has county zoning23. Cities zone their own land: Foley, Bay Minette and Elberta each have a zoning ordinance of their own345. The County Zoning Ordinance applies only in the county's zoned areas24. Use the County Parcel Viewer for a parcel's district, then file a Zoning Verification Form in CitizenServe, because published maps may not reflect recent rezoning25. In a zoned area, zoning site-plan approval comes before the building permit for a new manufactured home and for a second dwelling or other new structure1026. Minimum dwelling size, lot size, setbacks, lot coverage and building height could not be confirmed; ask Planning & Zoning about the parcel's district21.

How do septic permits work in Baldwin County, Alabama?

The Baldwin County Health Department handles permits for new onsite sewage systems and repairs to existing ones27. That holds inside city limits too: septic permits for Bay Minette, Fairhope, Gulf Shores and Elberta go through the health department28293031. Start with a soil test by a registered soils professional, then submit the application, fee and test result to the health department32. If testing finds a site restriction, a registered engineer must design the system, and installation starts only after the permit is issued7. The licensed installer must contact the health department for inspection before covering the system33. Only about 9.2% of Baldwin County soils rate as not limited for a conventional drain field, so expect a site evaluation and possibly an engineered system34. Where public sewer is unavailable, occupancy on onsite sanitation requires a permitted system, inspection and Approval for Use35.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Baldwin County?

Baldwin County's rule for long-term RV occupancy on private land could not be confirmed, so ask Planning & Zoning about the verified parcel district before treating an RV as a residence21. Alabama treats a park model as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or seasonal use, not as a permanent dwelling; that rule does not create general permission for residential use of an ordinary RV on private land9. A countywide tiny-home occupancy rule and minimum dwelling size also could not be confirmed. The County does, however, require zoning site-plan approval before the building permit for a second dwelling in a zoned area26. For a qualifying manufactured home, Alabama recognizes residential use when required utilities are connected and the home bears a HUD Seal, but County zoning, health and permitting rules still apply36.

Building a home in Baldwin County: the steps, in order

  1. Confirm which government issues the permit and whether the parcel sits in a County-zoned area; use the Parcel Viewer and request zoning verification1525.
  2. Arrange the soil test and apply to the Baldwin County Health Department for the septic permit before installation32.
  3. Gather the required documents and submit the building application through CitizenServe or, for most types, in person. If you act as your own builder, return the owner-builder exemption form before the permit is issued208.
  4. Get zoning site-plan approval first if the parcel is zoned and the project is a manufactured home, second dwelling or other new structure1026.
  5. Obtain the electrical permit after the structure permit and before the electric utility connects service37.
  6. Apply for driveway, turnout or culvert approval before work in a County road or right-of-way; temporary construction access can be permitted for up to 180 days after the permanent driveway is approved11.
  7. Schedule project-specific building inspections and the septic inspection, and do not cover either before approval1838.

What should you check before buying land in Baldwin County, Alabama?

Check parcel jurisdiction and zoning first, because some unincorporated areas are zoned and others are not39. If you plan to divide land, a subdivision with six or more lots and new roads or drainage facilities requires a Sketch Plan, and a division into two parcels of at least 35 acres each can qualify for exemption review14. Five lots or fewer with no new streets may go through Concurrent Review instead14. Check road ownership: a driveway, turnout or culvert on a County-maintained road needs a County permit, minor residential driveways carry no fee, and a driveway onto a state highway needs an ALDOT permit using Form BM-111111240. In a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area, the building application must include an Elevation Certificate marked construction drawings, and each permit carries a $75 flood fee13. Test septic feasibility before closing, since only about 9.2% of county soils rate as not limited for a conventional drain field34. The general private-well permit rule could not be confirmed; ask the health department about water and septic plans together22.

Watch-outs

  • A County application is not a permit until all fees are paid and an issue date is posted20.
  • Planning and Zoning charges a $15 data processing fee plus a $10 issuance fee on listed applications, and working without a permit can draw a double permit fee on marked application types12.
  • Baldwin County's zoning maps are informational and may lag recent rezoning, so request formal zoning verification before designing for a district41.
  • A minor residential driveway serves one single-family lot with no more than two legally permitted dwelling units; larger residential access is classified and processed differently11.

Sources

  1. Permitting FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  2. Planning Maps, quoted and re-checked
  3. Foley: Code of Ordinances - City of Foley (Baldwin County), quoted and re-checked
  4. Bay Minette: Planning & Zoning (Baldwin County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Town of Elberta: Elberta Code of Ordinances, Appendix B Zoning, Section 7.2 Manufactured homes (Baldwin County), quoted and re-checked
  6. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  7. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  8. Permit Application Checklists, quoted and re-checked
  9. Chapter 535-X-11 Regulations for Manufactured Buildings (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Permit Application Information, quoted and re-checked
  11. Permit Division, quoted and re-checked
  12. Zoning Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  13. Baldwin County Building Department Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  14. Permit Application Information, quoted and re-checked
  15. Permitting FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  16. Foley: Permit Fees (Baldwin County), quoted and re-checked
  17. Building Codes & Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  18. Inspection FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  19. Baldwin County Building Department (baldwincountyal.gov)
  20. Permitting FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  21. Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department (baldwincountyal.gov)
  22. Baldwin County Health Department (Environmental and Vital Statistics) (alabamapublichealth.gov)
  23. Planning Maps (2026 county census)
  24. Permit Application Information, quoted and re-checked
  25. Planning Maps, quoted and re-checked
  26. Permit Application Information, quoted and re-checked
  27. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  28. Bay Minette: Onsite Sewage Disposal (Baldwin County), quoted and re-checked
  29. Fairhope: Onsite Sewage Disposal (Baldwin County), quoted and re-checked
  30. Gulf Shores: Onsite Sewage Disposal (Baldwin County), quoted and re-checked
  31. Town of Elberta: Alabama Department of Public Health, Baldwin County Onsite Sewage Disposal (Baldwin County), quoted and re-checked
  32. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  33. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  34. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Septic Tank Systems (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  36. What is a manufactured home? (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  37. Permitting FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  38. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  39. Planning Maps, quoted and re-checked
  40. ALDOT Permit Manual (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  41. Planning Maps, quoted and re-checked

Written October 16, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Baldwin County has countywide zoning.

RuleBaldwin CountyMobile CountyEscambia CountyWashington CountyClarke CountyMonroe CountyConecuh County
Building permitRequiredRequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningYesNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Baldwin County in Alabama

62
County map
Baldwin County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score

How Baldwin County scores

Seclusion51100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency69100% ev.
Admin Boringness48100% ev.
Durability47100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost76100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$376kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$6,202Land / acre
64"Annual rain
8.2% of yrsSevere drought
5.4 / yr (+5)Mid-century 100°F days
15.9 daysMid-century dry spell
3.72" (+6.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.26×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,281Home insurance / yr
-1.3% / yrInsurance growth
0.29%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
1,341,024People within 2 hr
78,204Radius comparison (15 mi)
159.5People / sq mi
0.9%Federal land
99.2%Land at 15% slope or less
9.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
88,577 acWorkable land screen
70.1%Wooded land
44.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
67.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Baldwin County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Daphne · Loxley · Town of Magnolia Springs · Town of Perdido Beach · Town of Silverhill · Spanish Fort · Town of Summerdale

Answers from the rulebook for Baldwin County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Baldwin County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, repair, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work within Baldwin County Building Department permit jurisdiction.

    • County jurisdiction includes most unincorporated areas and properties inside Elberta, Magnolia Springs, and Perdido Beach.
    • Silverhill and Summerdale permit within their police-jurisdiction areas; properties inside other city limits should contact the specific city.
    • The source lists exceptions for certain decks and accessory structures outside flood zones, and special limitations for manufactured homes.
    “Per the adopted International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) , any owner or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permits.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction and regulated building, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work within the Baldwin County Building Department permit jurisdiction.
      “Per the adopted International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC), any owner or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permits.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A property owner seeking the County's linked State of Alabama Home Builders Licensure Law exemption in connection with a County permit.

    • The owner must review, complete, and return the exemption form to the Building Department before the permit is issued.
    • The cited material does not exempt the owner from obtaining the County permit.
    “The property owner can request an exemption to that law. This exemption allows the owner of the property to act as his/her own builder even though he/she does not have a license.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building-code enforcement within Baldwin County Building Department permit jurisdiction.

    • The listed codes took effect March 5, 2025 under Baldwin County Commission Resolution No. 2025-067.
    • The county permit jurisdiction includes most unincorporated areas and properties inside Elberta, Magnolia Springs, and Perdido Beach; other municipal jurisdictions may administer their own permitting requirements.

    effective date: 2025-03-05

    “The following codes and regulations took effect on March 5, 2025, under Baldwin County Commission Resolution No. 2025-067:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Work within the Baldwin County Building Department permit jurisdiction.
      “Per the adopted International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC), any owner or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permits.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Permitted construction within the Baldwin County Building Department permit jurisdiction.

    • Required inspections depend on the permitted project type and scope.
    • Do not cover regulated work until all required inspections are approved.
    “Not every inspection listed below will apply to every project. The inspections required will depend on the specific type of construction and scope of work covered by the permit.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning administered by Baldwin County in portions of unincorporated Baldwin County.

    • Some areas of Baldwin County are unzoned and are not subject to the Baldwin County Commission's planning and zoning authority.
    • Municipal zoning and municipal building-permit jurisdictions may apply inside incorporated areas.
    “The map provides the Planning Districts as well as zoning designation of individual parcels. Some areas of Baldwin County are unzoned, and therefore, not subject to the planning and zoning authority of the Baldwin County Commission.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Baldwin County zoning and planning authority in county areas subject to county zoning, primarily unincorporated planning districts.
      “Some areas of Baldwin County are unzoned”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Baldwin County zoning regulation, aggregated across county-administered zoned areas and potentially separate municipal zoning jurisdictions.

    • The county source expressly limits the cited Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance application to zoned areas of the county.
    • This aggregate claim does not establish that Baldwin County administers municipal zoning ordinances.
    “This application is for the construction, reconstruction, repair, demolition, conversion, structural alteration, relocation, removal, or enlargement of any building or structure in zoned areas of the county to verify that the structure will comply with the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Baldwin County planning districts and parcel zoning designations.

    • The county states that maps are informational and may not reflect recent rezoning action.
    • The county directs users to the Parcel Viewer or a zoning-verification submission for the most up-to-date zoning.
    “Please use the Baldwin County Parcel Viewer for Zoning information. Submit a Zoning Verification Form at our online portal at CitizenServe to confirm the current zoning designation of the property or obtain additional zoning information. The map provides the Planning Districts as well as zoning designation of individual parcels.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Zoning designations and planning districts shown through Baldwin County's Parcel Viewer and planning maps.
      “The map provides the Planning Districts as well as zoning designation of individual parcels. Some areas of Baldwin County are unzoned, and therefore, not subject to the planning and zoning authority of the Baldwin County Commission.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Placement of a new manufactured or mobile home in a zoned area of Baldwin County.

    • Zoning Site Plan Approval is required before a building permit.
    • The application verifies compliance with the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance.
    “Only Zone II manufactured/mobile homes are allowed to be setup or re-setup in Baldwin County.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    A new accessory dwelling or structure in a zoned area of Baldwin County.

    • Zoning Site Plan Approval is required before a building permit.
    • The County describes this subtype as a second dwelling or other new structure on the property.
    “• New Accessory Dwelling or Structure – For the construction or placement of a second dwelling or ANY other new structure to the property (pools, garages, pole barns, pre-built sheds, etc.).”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage disposal systems in Baldwin County.

    • A permit is required before installing a new onsite sewage disposal system or repairing an existing system.
    • A registered soils professional must perform the soil test.
    • If the test indicates a site restriction, a registered engineer must design the system.
    • The health department reviews materials, visits the site, issues the permit when requirements are met, and must inspect before the system is covered.
    • Installation or repair uses a licensed installer.
    “Alabama state law requires owners of property to obtain a permit from the local health department prior to installing a new onsite sewage disposal system or making repairs to an existing system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Local (with conditions) — New or repaired onsite sewage disposal systems in Baldwin County.
      “Alabama state law requires owners of property to obtain a permit from the local health department prior to installing a new onsite sewage disposal system or making repairs to an existing system.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of a new onsite sewage system or repair of an existing onsite sewage system in Baldwin County.

    • A registered soils professional should perform the test.
    • The application, fee, and soil-test result are submitted to the health department.
    • Where the test indicates a site restriction, a registered engineer must design the system.
    • The permit is issued only when all requirements have been met.
    “Alabama state law requires owners of property to obtain a permit from the local health department prior to installing a new onsite sewage disposal system or making repairs to an existing system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New onsite sewage disposal systems and repairs to existing systems in Baldwin County.
      “Alabama state law requires owners of property to obtain a permit from the local health department prior to installing a new onsite sewage disposal system or making repairs to an existing system.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installed or repaired onsite sewage systems in Baldwin County.

    • The licensed installer must contact the health department before covering the system.
    “The installer must contact the health department for an inspection before covering the system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Onsite sewage systems installed or repaired in Baldwin County.
      “The installer must contact the health department for an inspection before covering the system.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Electrical-service connection for a structure in the Baldwin County Building Department permit jurisdiction.

    • An electrical permit is required before an electric utility will connect service.
    • A permit for the structure must be obtained before the electrical permit.
    “Electric utility companies will not connect electrical service for a structure without an electrical permit. You must obtain a permit for the structure before you can obtain an electrical permit.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision applications processed under Baldwin County Subdivision Regulations, including non-exempt divisions and municipal planning-jurisdiction applications administered through county processes.

    • A Sketch Plan is required for subdivisions including both six or more lots and new infrastructure.
    • Concurrent Review applies to non-exempt subdivisions of five lots or fewer only when no new streets are required and each lot has qualifying access for existing utilities.
    • Potential exemptions include family divisions, public acquisitions, certain one-time splits, common-line relocations, and divisions creating two parcels each at least 35 acres.
    • An exemption does not apply to a proposed subdivision or resubdivision resulting in a Major Change to a recorded Final Plat or Final Site Plan.

    Sketch Plan lot threshold: >= 6 lots (also requires new infrastructure) · exemption parcel size: >= 35 acres (division into two resultant parcels)

    “This application is required for all subdivisions that are proposed to include BOTH: 1. Six or more lots 2. New infrastructure (roads or drainage facilities)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision proposals in unincorporated Baldwin County.
      “This application is required for all subdivisions that are proposed to include BOTH: 1. Six or more lots 2. New infrastructure (roads or drainage facilities)”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Driveways, turnouts, and culverts on County-maintained roads and driveway or drainage improvements within Baldwin County rights-of-way.

    • A permit application is required for driveway, turnout, and culvert work on County-maintained roads and for driveway or drainage improvements within the Baldwin County Right-of-Way.
    • Commercial driveways serve commercial property or five or more residential lots/units and are processed by Planning and Zoning.
    • Major residential driveways serve two or more but fewer than five residential lots/units and are processed by Planning and Zoning.
    • Minor residential driveways serve one single-family lot/unit with no more than two legally permitted dwelling units and are processed by the Highway Department.
    • Agricultural driveways serve agricultural or undeveloped land not used for industrial, commercial, or residential purposes.
    • Temporary construction access may be permitted for up to 180 days after permanent driveway approval.

    temporary driveway duration: <= 180 days (temporary access requires permanent driveway approval)

    “Permit applications for (1) utility work within Baldwin County rights-of-way and for (2) driveways, turnouts, and culverts on County-maintained roads and for (3) subdivisions are now all submitted through the Baldwin County CitizenServe Portal.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation of a driveway or drainage improvements within a Baldwin County right-of-way.
      “Apply for a permit to install any driveway and/or drainage improvements within the Baldwin County Right-of-Way.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or development in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas within Baldwin County's building-permit jurisdiction.

    • A $75 flood permit fee applies to each permit for construction or development within any FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area.
    • An Elevation Certificate marked construction drawings must be submitted with the building permit application.
    • The county may require additional floodplain-related certificates.

    flood permit fee: 75 USD per permit (construction or development within any FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area)

    “A flood permit fee of $75.00 will apply to each permit for construction or development within any FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published Baldwin County Planning and Zoning, subdivision, construction-plan, and driveway-related permit fees.

    • Administrative fees are $15 data processing plus $10 issuance fee for listed applications according to the stated effective dates.
    • Effective dates listed include January 17, March 21, May 23, and October 1, 2026.
    • A double permit fee applies for working without a permit for marked applications.
    • Minor residential and agricultural driveway permits have no fees; commercial and major residential driveway permits are processed through Planning and Zoning.

    data processing fee: 15 USD · issuance fee: 10 USD · Sketch Plan fee: 250 USD (plus $40 per lot or unit) · Preliminary Plat fee: 500 USD (plus $50 per lot) · Concurrent Review fee: 300 USD (plus $25 per lot) · Final Plat fee: 300 USD (plus $25 per lot) · Construction Plan Review fee: 75 USD per lot · Roadway Inspection fee: 1.25 USD per linear foot

    “A $15.00 Data Processing Fee and a $10.00 Issuance Fee will apply to each of the following applications based on the effective dates listed below:Effective 01/17/2026:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Planning and Zoning applications processed by Baldwin County.
      “Please click on the button below to access the portal Citizenserve Portal Planning & Zoning Fees Schedule Permit Types”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Baldwin County building-permit applications.

    • Applicants gather required documents and submit through the CitizenServe Portal.
    • Most application types can also be submitted in person at County permitting offices.
    • Application validity requires all fees paid and an issue date posted.
    “Once you have gathered any required documents, you may complete and submit permit applications online through the CitizenServe Portal.”

Alabama rules that apply here

  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Residential projects in Alabama municipalities that issue a certificate of occupancy and for which the builder is subject to the Home Builders Licensure Law.

    • An updated list of subcontractors must be furnished before issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the municipality.
    • The provision does not establish a statewide requirement that every residential project obtain a certificate of occupancy.
    • The builder must provide the subcontractor list within three working days after hiring an added subcontractor; the initial list is due within 15 days after issuance of the building permit if requested by the issuing municipality.
    • No license fee for subcontractors is required as a condition of issuing a building permit or certificate of occupancy.

    initial subcontractor list deadline: 15 days after building permit issuance (only if requested by the issuing municipality) · added subcontractor list deadline: 3 working days after hiring

    “An updated list of subcontractors shall be furnished by the builder before the issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the municipality.”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Park models, defined by Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission Rule 535-X-11 as recreational park trailers, statewide.

    • The rule states that a park model is not a permanent dwelling and is for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
    • In an RV Park, park models may be installed or set up to the same standard as a travel trailer.
    • When not in an RV Park, the manufacturer's approved installation instructions must be complied with.
    • The rule does not expressly establish a general statewide authorization for permanent occupancy of motor homes or ordinary travel trailers outside an RV park.

    gross trailer area: <= 400 square feet or less in set-up mode (Measurements are taken on the exterior of the trailer; roofing overhang is excluded.)

    “A park model is not a permanent dwelling. It is temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping on state-owned lands under the jurisdiction of the Alabama State Lands Division.

    • Camping is prohibited except in designated areas.
    • Camping-period limits apply.
    • Campfires must be extinguished.
    • Warming fires may not be used away from designated campgrounds.
    • The listed scheduled fine is $50.

    scheduled fine: 50 USD (For violations listed under Alabama Administrative Code rule 220-4-.15(c).)

    “220-4-.15(c) Camping except in designated areas, $50 exceeding limit of camping period, failure to extinguish campfires, and using warming fires away from designated campgrounds on state-owned lands under the State Lands Division jurisdiction”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Recreational park trailers used as temporary living quarters for camping in Alabama.
      “A park model is not a permanent dwelling. It is temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Use of an onsite septic/onsite sewage treatment and disposal system instead of connection to a municipal sewer where municipal sewers are unavailable or impractical.

    • The system must comply with ADPH onsite sewage rules.
    • A Permit to Install is required before construction.
    • Inspection and an Approval for Use are required before occupancy.
    • Site and soil suitability, professional design, and local health-department review may be required.
    “Septic tank systems are used where municipal sewers are not available or are impractical.”
  • Well permitLimited

    New groundwater wells and alterations to existing groundwater wells extracting at least 50 gallons per minute when the well is in Alabama's coastal area or its 50-year capture zone extends into the coastal area.

    • A permit from ADEM is required for the covered installation or alteration.
    • The cited rule is limited to the specified coastal-area or capture-zone circumstances and does not establish a general statewide permit requirement for individual private wells.
    • ADEM states that it does not have regulatory authority over individual private wells.

    groundwater extraction rate: >= 50 gallons per minute (Applies when the well surface location is in the coastal area or the 50-year capture zone extends into the coastal area.)

    “The installation of a new well, or alteration of an existing well, for the purposes of extracting groundwater”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural buildings under the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board residential home-builder licensing rules.

    • The exemption does not include a residence contained in the agricultural building.
    • The agricultural building must meet the definition in Ala. Admin. Code r. 465-X-1-.01(3).
    “Agricultural buildings, as defined in Ala. Admin. Code r. 465-X-1-.01(3), except for any residence contained therein.”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

    County zoning and land-use authority over unincorporated Alabama land under general state law and identified special statutory circumstances.

    • General Alabama law does not grant counties broad and general land-use regulatory authority.
    • Several counties have planning and zoning authority created by local law, including examples identified in the official handbook: Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson County.
    • Special statutory authority includes subdivision regulation under Ala. Code § 11-24-1 et seq.; flood-prone-area land-use regulation under Ala. Code § 11-19-1 et seq.; and airport zoning under Ala. Code § 4-6-1 et seq.
    • Flood-prone-area authority concerns areas outside municipal corporate limits and covers areas with a frequency of inundation of once in 100 years; permitted controls include zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, building codes, health regulations, and related police-power measures.
    • Airport zoning concerns airport hazards and is generally available in the county's unincorporated area, except within a municipality's police jurisdiction and within two miles of a municipality-owned or operated airport when the municipality exercises or declares its intention to exercise zoning control, unless local law provides otherwise.
    • The claim does not establish that every Alabama county has a general countywide zoning ordinance.

    flood-prone-area inundation frequency: 100 years (As defined by qualified hydrologists or engineers using generally accepted hydrology and engineering methods) · airport municipal control area: 2 miles (Applies when the municipality exercises or declares its intention to exercise zoning control, unless local law provides otherwise)

    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Alabama county authority to adopt zoning for unincorporated land.
      “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
    • Limited — County authority over land use and zoning in unincorporated Alabama; general Alabama law does not grant counties broad general zoning authority, but limited authority exists through special local laws and specified statutory circumstances.
      “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Authority of Alabama county commissions to adopt and administer building laws and codes for residential construction in unincorporated areas.

    • A county commission may adopt building laws and codes by ordinance or, under the 2025 version of Section 34-14A-12, by resolution.
    • The ordinary county-code jurisdiction is the unincorporated area of the county.
    • County building laws and codes may not apply within a municipal police jurisdiction where the municipality is exercising its building laws or codes without the municipality's express consent.
    • County building laws and codes may apply within municipal corporate limits only with the express consent of the municipal governing body.
    • Under the 2025 statute, the county must provide the Board a copy of the resolution within 10 business days.
    • A local building law or code generally may not take effect until 120 days after adoption; for insurance-claim work requiring a license, the effective date is the date of adoption.
    • The county commission may employ building inspectors and exact fees from owners of inspected property.
    • The county may enter mutual agreements, compacts, or contracts with municipalities and other public entities for administration and enforcement.

    local-code notice deadline: 10 business days (Copy of resolution must be provided to the Home Builders Licensure Board) · local-code ordinary effective delay: 120 days (Insurance-claim work requiring a license may use the adoption date)

    “A county commission, by resolution, may adopt building laws and codes that shall apply in the unincorporated areas of the county. The county commission shall provide a copy of any resolution adopted pursuant to this subsection to the board withing 10 business days of adopting the resolution.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Alabama county authority to adopt and enforce residential building laws and codes in unincorporated areas.
      “There are two general statutory provisions authorizing counties to adopt building codes: the Home Builders Licensure Law found at Ala. Code § 34-14A-1 et seq. and the law on the state minimum building standards code found at Ala. Code § 41-9-160 et seq.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Baldwin County.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in Baldwin County.
  • Setbacks — Building and subdivision setbacks in Baldwin County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in Baldwin County.
  • Building height — Building height in Baldwin County.
2 more unanswered
  • Tiny homes
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Baldwin County, Alabama

Is Baldwin County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Baldwin County scores 62/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 64″/yr rainfall plus 70.1% wooded land. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

Do you need a building permit in Baldwin County, Alabama?

Baldwin County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Baldwin County Health Department (ADPH Soil and Onsite Sewage program). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Baldwin County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Baldwin County is allowed on a temporary basis only: Statewide rule. Park models, defined by Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission Rule 535-X-11 as recreational park trailers, statewide. The rule states that a park model is not a permanent dwelling and is for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use. In an RV Park, park models may be installed or set up to the same standard as a travel trailer. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Baldwin County, Alabama?

Land in Baldwin County runs about $6,202 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Baldwin County?

Baldwin County gets about 64" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.2% of years.

How remote is Baldwin County?

A typical private-land location has about 78,204 people within 15 miles and 2,187,483 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Baldwin compares in Alabama

Compare side-by-side →See all 67 Alabama counties ranked →