Bolthole Index

Bullock County, Alabama

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

78Index Score / 100
#17 of 67 in Alabama

For unincorporated Bullock County, Alabama, we could not confirm whether a residential building permit is required; ask the County Commission before starting work1. Unincorporated Bullock County has no general-purpose zoning, but flood-control and public-street rules remain separate2. Alabama sets septic requirements, and the Bullock County Health Department handles local applications and permits34.

At a glance

Building permit
No permit appears to be required for unincorporated homes, but we could not confirm the current rule; ask the County Commission1
Zoning
No general-purpose zoning in unincorporated areas; flood-control and public-street rules remain separate2
Septic permits
Alabama sets the requirements; the Health Department handles local applications and permits, including new systems and repairs34
Owner-builder
Available for a qualifying owner-built home for the owner's own use5
RV or tiny home
No county zoning restriction on unincorporated land; septic and other state rules still apply67
Minimum home or lot size
No county zoning minimum on unincorporated land6
Subdivision rules
Bullock County has not adopted or enforced subdivision regulations8
Septic soils
No mapped county soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field9

Who to call

Septic permits

Bullock County Health Department, Environmental Office

Septic tank requests and environmental complaints

334-730-4306

674 Hicks Industrial Boulevard, Union Springs, Alabama 36089

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Bullock County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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

We could not confirm whether a residential building permit is required in unincorporated Bullock County; ask the County Commission before ordering plans or starting work1. Alabama allows county commissions to adopt building laws and codes for unincorporated areas, but that authority alone does not establish a Bullock County building-permit program10. A statewide residential-code framework takes effect in 2027, with enforcement through local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs11. Septic applications and permits remain with the Bullock County Health Department throughout the county4.

Who issues building permits in Bullock County, and how do you reach them?

We could not confirm a residential building-permit office, building-inspection schedule or building certificate-of-occupancy requirement for unincorporated Bullock County; start with the Bullock County Commission1. Ask the Commission to identify any current building-permit requirements and the office responsible as Alabama’s residential-code framework changes in 202711. For septic applications and permits, contact the Bullock County Health Department, which administers the local service under Alabama requirements4. The Health Department directs septic-tank requests to its Environmental Office at the phone and address shown above12.

Does Bullock County have zoning?

Unincorporated Bullock County has no general-purpose zoning; flood-control and public-street and subdivision authority remain separate2. Inside Union Springs, the city sets zoning through mapped use districts13. Septic applications and permits still go to the Bullock County Health Department countywide4. On unincorporated land, no county zoning rule sets minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setbacks, lot coverage or building height6. Although the county retains separate subdivision authority, Bullock County has not adopted or enforced county subdivision regulations28.

How do septic permits work in Bullock County?

Alabama establishes onsite-sewage requirements, while the Bullock County Health Department administers local septic permits, including new systems and repairs314. For property not connected to public sanitary sewer, obtain a permit before installing a new system or repairing an existing system7. Submit the Application for a Permit to Install an Onsite Sewage Disposal System and plans to the county health department; soil testing and professional site information may be required15. Construction can begin only after the Permit to Install is issued, and the installer must be licensed by the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board15. No mapped Bullock County soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make site evaluation and septic approval a purchase contingency9.

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

For unincorporated Bullock County, county zoning does not restrict RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, accessory dwellings or temporary camping6. That zoning answer does not waive septic rules: where public sewer is unavailable, obtain a Permit to Install from the Bullock County Health Department before constructing an onsite sewage system16. Manufactured homes may be used as residences statewide when they meet Alabama's definition, bear a HUD Seal and connect to the required utilities17. Inside Union Springs, city zoning applies13. Septic applications and permits remain with the Bullock County Health Department4. County-specific utility-connection and off-grid sanitation alternatives beyond an approved septic system remain unconfirmed, so ask the Health Department and the applicable utility before choosing a dwelling or wastewater plan.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside Union Springs, where city zoning applies13.
  2. Ask the Bullock County Commission whether a residential building permit, inspection or occupancy approval applies to the unincorporated parcel; we could not confirm those requirements1.
  3. Arrange an early septic site evaluation: no mapped Bullock County soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field9.
  4. Submit the septic application and plans to the Bullock County Health Department, wait for the Permit to Install, and use a licensed installer15.
  5. If acting as your own contractor, personally supervise a qualifying home for your own occupancy or use and do not offer it for sale5.
  6. Obtain onsite-sewage inspection and Approval for Use before occupancy18.

What should you check before buying land in Bullock County?

Make septic feasibility the first contingency because no mapped Bullock County soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field9. Check the flood map and permitting status because development in a Special Flood Hazard Area within a participating Alabama community requires a local floodplain-development permit19. Confirm legal access; a new driveway connecting to an Alabama state highway requires an ALDOT permit20. The land is mostly gentle and wooded, with 96.9% at a slope of 15% or less and 80.7% forest cover, so clearing may matter more than grading on many tracts2122. Bullock County has not adopted or enforced subdivision regulations, so examine surveys, deeds, road maintenance and utility arrangements carefully on a split tract8.

Watch-outs

  • Do not assume that an unincorporated Bullock County home needs no building permit; ask the County Commission because we could not confirm the current requirement1.
  • Union Springs sets its own zoning, so verify municipal boundaries before using the unincorporated Bullock County zoning answer132.
  • No mapped Bullock County soils avoid severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so secure site approval before buying9.
  • A county-specific septic inspection schedule, private-well permit rule, utility-connection rule and driveway process could not be confirmed; ask the Health Department, utility and road authority for the parcel72320.

Sources

  1. Bullock County, Alabama (official county website) (2026 county census)
  2. Bullock County Hazard Mitigation Plan, quoted and re-checked
  3. Onsite Sewage, quoted and re-checked
  4. Services | Alabama Department of Public Health, quoted and re-checked
  5. Home Builders Licensure Law, quoted and re-checked
  6. Alabama law on county zoning and building authority
  7. Onsite Sewage, quoted and re-checked
  8. Bullock County Hazard Mitigation Plan, quoted and re-checked
  9. 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
  10. Home Builders Licensure Board Law, effective October 1, 2025 (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Home Builders Licensure Law, Effective October 1, 2025 (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Bullock County Health Department, Environmental Office (alabamapublichealth.gov)
  13. Union Springs: Code of Ordinances, Appendix A—Zoning, § 3.1 Establishment of zoning districts (Bullock County), quoted and re-checked
  14. Soil and Onsite Sewage, quoted and re-checked
  15. Onsite Sewage, quoted and re-checked
  16. Can I Live On This Lot?, quoted and re-checked
  17. What is a manufactured home? (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. Septic Tank Systems (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. My house is in a floodplain. What do I do if I want to build an addition or otherwise improve it? (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  20. ALDOT Permit Manual (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  22. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  23. alabamapublichealth.gov (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 10, 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 3 of the 4 neighbors with published rules, Bullock County has no countywide zoning.

RuleBullock CountyMacon CountyPike CountyBarbour CountyMontgomery CountyRussell CountyLee County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningNoYesNoNot publishedYesNot publishedYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Bullock County in Alabama

78
County map
Bullock County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score

How Bullock County scores

Seclusion74100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency61100% ev.
Admin Boringness86100% ev.
Durability61100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost89100% 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 →

$128kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$2,258Land / acre
53.4"Annual rain
14.8% of yrsSevere drought
11.5 / yr (+10.6)Mid-century 100°F days
17.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.59" (+3.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.29×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,154Home insurance / yr
-1.1% / yrInsurance growth
1.42%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
8,052People within 30 min
1,578,023People within 2 hr
11,704Radius comparison (15 mi)
15.9People / sq mi
0.2%Federal land
96.9%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
179 acWorkable land screen
80.7%Wooded land
44.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
64.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Bullock 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: Town of Midway

Answers from the rulebook for Bullock County

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

Bullock County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    General-purpose zoning authority in unincorporated Bullock County.

    • Flood-control rules, public-street rules, and any applicable municipal rules remain separate.
    • The source states that zoning authority is vested in municipalities that choose to exercise it.
    “In unincorporated areas within Bullock County, this authority is absent except as it applies to flood control and public street and subdivision regulation.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — General-purpose zoning in unincorporated Bullock County.
      “In unincorporated areas within Bullock County, this authority is absent except as it applies to flood control and public street and subdivision regulation.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning and land-use regulation across Bullock County, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.

    • The countywide conclusion aggregates municipal zoning status and does not mean Bullock County administers each local ordinance.
    • Authority to control development through land-use planning and zoning is vested in municipalities that choose to exercise it.
    • The City of Union Springs has land-use regulations.
    • The Town of Midway does not have land-use regulations according to the plan.
    • In unincorporated Bullock County, zoning authority is absent except for flood control and public street and subdivision regulation.
    • The State of Alabama does not require jurisdictions to implement land-use planning and associated regulations.
    • Bullock County has not adopted and does not enforce subdivision regulations.
    “The City of Union Springs does have land use regulations while the Town of Midway does not.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Bullock County municipalities and unincorporated areas.
      “The City of Union Springs does have land use regulations while the Town of Midway does not. [...] In unincorporated areas within Bullock County, this authority is absent except as it applies to flood control and public street and subdivision regulation.”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Minimum lot size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Building height · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Living in an RV · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Tiny homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “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.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage permitting, inspection, approval, and use in Bullock County.

    • The Alabama Department of Public Health establishes and enforces the statewide onsite-sewage requirements.
    • The Bullock County Health Department Environmental Office is the local contact for septic-tank requests.
    • The county health department administers local permits and oversight under the Alabama program.
    “Issued 40 new or repair permits to regulate and permit onsite sewage disposal systems and oversee treatment and disposal of septage and other permitted wastes.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Onsite sewage regulation and permitting in Bullock County.
      “Alabama State Law requires homeowners and businesses not connected to a public sanitary sewer system to obtain a permit from the local health department prior to installing a new system or making repairs to an existing onsite sewage disposal system.”
    • County — Onsite sewage applications and permits in Bullock County.
      “Onsite sewage – applications and permits”
  • Subdividing landNot regulated

    County subdivision regulations in unincorporated Bullock County.

    • This finding concerns county subdivision regulations and does not negate municipal subdivision rules.
    “Bullock County has not adopted and does not enforce subdivision regulations.”

Alabama rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Residential construction undertakings in Alabama for which the Home Builders Licensure Law requires a residential home builders license and a local incorporated municipality, municipal subdivision, or county authority issues the building or similar permit.

    • The issuing building official must refuse the permit unless the applicant provides evidence of the required license or an exemption.
    • The cited provision addresses undertakings requiring a license; it does not establish that every residential project statewide requires a building permit.
    • Local building-permit rules and local building codes remain applicable.
    “to refuse to issue a permit for any undertaking which would require a license hereunder unless the applicant has furnished evidence”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owners building or improving one-family or two-family residences in Alabama for their own occupancy or use.

    • The owner must act as the owner's own contractor.
    • The owner must provide all material supervision personally.
    • The residence must be a one-family or two-family residence on the owner's property.
    • The residence must be for the occupancy or use of the owners and must not be offered for sale.
    • The exemption is nontransferable.
    • A homeowner who hires or compensates anyone to supervise the building or improvement is not acting as the owner's own contractor.
    • Subcontractors hired by an exempt homeowner must be licensed if the cost of the subcontractor's portion exceeds $10,000.
    • Offering the residence for sale within one year after substantial completion is presumptive evidence that construction was undertaken for sale.

    subcontractor portion cost threshold: > 10000 USD (subcontractor must be licensed when the threshold is exceeded) · sale-offer period: 1 year after substantial completion (sale or offer for sale is presumptive evidence of construction for sale)

    “Owners of property when acting as their own contractor and providing all material supervision themselves, when building or improving one-family or two-family residences”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Owners acting as their own residential contractors in Alabama, including Bullock County.
      “Owners of property when acting as their own contractor and providing all material supervision themselves”
    • Available (with conditions) — Alabama Home Builders Licensure Law licensing exemption for an owner acting as the owner’s own residential contractor when building or improving a one-family or two-family residence for the owner’s own occupancy or use.
      “Owners of property when acting as their own contractor and providing all material supervision themselves, when building or improving one-family or two-family residences on such property for the occupancy or use of such owners and not offered for sale. This exemption is a nontransferable privilege.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Alabama's State Building Code for state-owned or state-funded work, public and private K-12 schools, public postsecondary schools, hotels and motels, movie theaters, and specified municipal and county-owned projects; residential construction is governed through the Alabama Residential Building Code framework and applicable local residential codes.

    • The State Building Code is limited to new construction, additions, renovations, mechanical, electrical, plumbing-system modifications, sitework, and generally work on state-owned property or using state funds; public and private K-12 schools; public postsecondary schools; hotels and motels; and movie theaters.
    • DCM's jurisdiction over municipal and county-owned projects is limited to projects meeting ADA Standards.
    • DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except hotels, motels, and movie theaters.
    • The 2021 International Building Code was adopted July 1, 2022 and amended March 17, 2025 with portions of the 2024 International Building Code and Companion codes.
    • The 2021 International Building Code amendments replace Chapter 2 flammable-gas definitions and specified sections including Table 307.1(1), 307.4, 307.5, 414.2.5, and Table 414.5.1, and add Section 414.2.5.4 and Table 414.2.5.4 from the 2024 International Building Code.
    • The 2021 International Mechanical Code amendments replace, add, and remove the sections and referenced standards listed on the official State Building Code page, including ASHRAE 15-2022, ASHRAE 34-2022, ASTM A333-18, UL/CSA 60335-2-40-2022, and UL/CSA 60335-2-89-2021.
    • The 2021 International Fire Code amendments replace, add, and renumber the sections and tables listed on the official State Building Code page, including provisions from the 2024 International Fire Code.
    • The Alabama Residential Building Code is to be adopted by the Home Builders Licensure Board and applies to construction and improvements governed by the Home Builders Licensure Law.
    • The Alabama Residential Building Code is enforced by local jurisdictions with permitting and inspection programs and does not supersede a local residential building code adopted by a county or municipality in effect on January 1, 2027.
    • Beginning January 1, 2027, residential home builders must construct, renovate, or repair residences or structures in accordance with the applicable state or local residential building code.
    • The Alabama Residential Building Code does not apply to an agricultural building except for a residence contained therein.

    International Building Code edition: 2021 (Amended with portions of the 2024 International Building Code and Companion codes) · International Building Code adoption date: 2022-07-01 · International Building Code amendment date: 2025-03-17 · residential-code applicability date: 2027-01-01 (Beginning on this date, residential home builders must use the applicable state or local residential building code)

    “The State Building Code is limited to any new construction, addition, renovation, modification of mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems, sitework and generally any and all work on state-owned property and/or using state funds, on all public and private kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12) schools, on public postsecondary schools, on hotels/motels and on movie theaters. DCM's code jurisdiction over plans and specifications of all municipal and county-owned projects is limited to such projects meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards. DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    10 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State Building Code requirements administered and enforced by the Alabama Division of Construction Management for state-owned or state-funded construction, K-12 schools, public postsecondary schools, hotels and motels, movie theaters, and other work within DCM jurisdiction.
      “The State Building Code is limited to any new construction, addition, renovation, modification of mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems, sitework and generally any and all work on state-owned property and/or using state funds, on all public and private kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12) schools, on public postsecondary schools, on hotels/motels and on movie theaters. DCM's code jurisdiction over plans and specifications of all municipal and county-owned projects is limited to such projects meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards. DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    • Partial — Residential construction and improvements governed by the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Law, including ordinary residential construction beginning January 1, 2027.
      “The Alabama Residential Building Code shall be enforced by local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs for residential construction and improvements that are adhered to by residential home builders. The Alabama Residential Building Code shall not supersede any local residential building code adopted by any county or municipality in effect on January 1, 2027. [...] Beginning January 1, 2027, a residential home builder within this state who constructs, renovates, or repairs a residence or structure shall do so in accordance with applicable residential building code adopted pursuant to Section 34-14A-12 or, if applicable, the local jurisdiction’s residential building code.”
    • Partial — Construction within the Alabama Division of Construction Management jurisdiction, including state-owned or state-funded work, public and private K-12 schools, public higher-education institutions, hotels, motels, and movie theaters.
      “The 2021 International Building Code [...] DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    • Partial — Construction within the Alabama Division of Construction Management jurisdiction, including state-owned or state-funded property, public and private K-12 schools, public higher-education institutions subject to the stated ACCS limitation, hotels/motels, and movie theaters.
      “The State Building Code is limited to any new construction, addition, renovation, modification of mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems, sitework”
    • Partial — Residential building-code investigations by the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board involving contracts entered into on or after February 13, 2022, in Alabama cities and counties that have not adopted a residential building code.
      “In cities and counties that have not adopted a residential building code, the Board will apply the 2015 International Residential building Code (IRC)”
    • Partial — Alabama's statutory framework authorizing county commissions to adopt building laws and codes for unincorporated areas and recognizing municipal building laws or codes within municipal police jurisdictions.
      “The county commissions of the several counties are authorized and empowered to adopt building laws and codes by ordinance”
    • Partial — Residential construction and improvements statewide under the Alabama Residential Building Code framework.
      “The Alabama Residential Building Code shall not supersede any local residential building code adopted by any county or municipality in effect on January 1, 2027.”
    • Partial — Residential construction and improvements governed by Alabama's Home Builders Licensure Law, including construction in local jurisdictions without an already adopted residential building code.
      “Beginning January 1, 2027, a residential home builder within this state who constructs, renovates, or repairs a residence or structure shall do so”
    • Partial — Projects within the Alabama Division of Construction Management's State Building Code jurisdiction, including state construction and specified school, hotel/motel, and movie-theater projects; not ordinary residential property.
      “DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    • Partial — Residential construction in Alabama where a county or municipality has a permitting and inspection program or has adopted a local residential building code; this is not a uniform DCM residential-code jurisdiction.
      “The Alabama Residential Building Code shall be enforced by local jurisdictions”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Required DCM construction inspections, pre-construction conferences, and substantial-completion determinations for projects within the narrower DCM inspection jurisdiction.

    • DCM-required inspections are limited to state-funded construction, any project on state-owned property, public K-12 schools including charter schools, public universities, and ACCS projects with Notices-to-Proceed issued before August 1, 2021.
    • DCM's broader plan-review/code jurisdiction also includes private K-12 schools, hotels/motels, and movie theaters, but the official DCM jurisdiction page does not include those categories in its stated required-inspection list.
    • Inspections must be requested by the contractor in writing or by email to the design professional, who coordinates with the DCM inspector.
    • A permit fee must be paid before scheduling the required DCM pre-construction conference; inspection benchmarks, including periodic, special, final, and year-end inspections when applicable, must then be met.
    • Fully locally-funded public K-12 projects require DCM pre-construction conferences and inspections regardless of estimated construction cost.
    “Conducts required pre-construction conferences, inspections and substantial completions limited to state-funded construction, any project on state-owned property, public K-12 (including charter) schools, on public universities, and on ACCS projects with Notices-to-Proceed issued prior to August 1, 2021.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Residential construction and improvements in Alabama local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs.
      “The Alabama Residential Building Code shall be enforced by local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs for residential construction and improvements”
  • 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.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New onsite sewage disposal systems and repairs for properties not connected to a public sanitary sewer system, including Bullock County.

    • A permit is required before installing a new system or repairing an existing system.
    • The application must include required soil information and property documents.
    • The health department reviews the application and soil-test results.
    • A permit is issued if the application is approved.
    • The source directs applicants to contact the health department before beginning installation.
    “Alabama State Law requires homeowners and businesses not connected to a public sanitary sewer system to obtain a permit from the local health department prior to installing a new system or making repairs to an existing onsite sewage disposal system.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction of an onsite sewage disposal system in Bullock County where Alabama onsite-sewage requirements apply.
      “Before the construction of an onsite sewage disposal system, you must submit an Application for a Permit to Install an Onsite Sewage Disposal System to your local county health department.”
    • Required — Construction of an onsite sewage disposal system in Bullock County when a public sanitary sewer is unavailable.
      “Before the construction of an onsite sewage disposal system, you must submit an Application for a Permit to Install an Onsite Sewage Disposal System to your local county health department. If the application and plans are complete and meet all the requirements of the rules, a 'Permit to Install' will be issued. Then and only then can you begin the construction of your system. Make sure that your system installer is licensed by the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board (AOWB).”
    • Required — Homeowners and businesses statewide that are not connected to a public sanitary sewer and intend to install a new onsite sewage system or repair an existing one.
      “Alabama State Law requires homeowners and businesses not connected to a public sanitary sewer to obtain a permit from the local health department”
  • 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”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Residential or mobile/modular-home development statewide where wastewater service is being planned.

    • The property should be checked with the city sewer authority or local health department for availability of city sewage disposal.
    • If public sanitary sewer is unavailable or the property is not connected to it, an onsite sewage system may be used only under the applicable ADPH permit and approval requirements.
    • The source does not establish a statewide mandatory connection-to-sewer rule.
    “If it is not, you will be required to have the soil tested to see if the soil is suitable”
  • 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.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Constructing a driveway, turnout, or other access from private, publicly owned, or commercial property to an Alabama state highway.

    • Applicants must submit Permit Form BM-111 to the ALDOT District Administrator.
    • ALDOT regulates entrance width, radii, placement, spacing, angle of entry, vertical alignment, drainage, and the number of entrances.
    • All turnout costs are paid by the applicant.

    minimum side-drain pipe diameter: >= 15 inches (ALDOT regions may require 18-inch pipe.)

    “Individuals or businesses which require access to State highways must apply for a permit by submitting a completed BM-111 application to the District Administrator.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in a Special Flood Hazard Area within an Alabama community participating in the National Flood Insurance Program.

    • The actual development permit is administered by the local building or floodplain official.
    • More stringent local requirements may apply.
    • Additions or improvements valued at 50% or more of the existing structure's market value are substantial improvements and generally trigger bringing the entire structure into compliance with mapped elevations.

    substantial-improvement threshold: >= 50 percent of existing structure market value

    “When a community chooses to participate in the NFIP, it must require permits for all development in the SFHA”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Alabama construction sites requiring ADEM Construction Stormwater permit coverage.

    • Coverage is generally required for land disturbance of one or more acres, qualifying common plans of development, or discharges with reasonable potential to cause or contribute to a water-quality concern.
    • Certain listed minor land-disturbing activities are exempt.
    • Lake Martin has a special designation requiring coverage for non-exempt projects even when disturbance is less than one acre.

    application fee: 1385 USD

    “An application fee of $1,385.00 will be required upon submission of an application.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Onsite sewage permit process applicable in Bullock County.

    • The property must not be connected to a public sanitary sewer system for the cited permit requirement.
    • Soil testing and professional site information may be required.
    • The application and plans must meet applicable rules before construction begins.
    • The installer must be licensed by the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board.
    “Before the construction of an onsite sewage disposal system, you must submit an Application for a Permit to Install an Onsite Sewage Disposal System to your local county health department. If the application and plans are complete and meet all the requirements of the rules, a 'Permit to Install' will be issued. Then and only then can you begin the construction of your system. Make sure that your system installer is licensed by the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board (AOWB).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Alabama construction sites requiring ADEM Construction Stormwater permit coverage.
      “You will receive a permitting determination via email generally within 2 –3 days.”
  • 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Bullock County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building-code requirements and building permits within the City of Union Springs, Bullock County, Alabama.

    • The official county mitigation plan reports the status as continuing from October 1, 2012.
    • The excerpt states that Union Springs has building codes and requires building permits; it does not identify the adopted code edition, permit fees, exemptions, or current amendment history.

    reported status date: 2012-10-01

    “Continuing from Oct. 1, 2012 – Union Springs now has building codes and require building permits”

Still unanswered

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

  • Septic inspection — Inspections of onsite sewage systems in Bullock County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Bullock County.

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 Bullock County, Alabama

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

Bullock County scores 78/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

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

Bullock County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Bullock County Health Department (Alabama Department of Public Health). 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 Bullock County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Bullock County is allowed: Unincorporated Bullock County: no county rule sets this, because Bullock County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Bullock County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning. Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits. Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Bullock County, Alabama?

Land in Bullock County runs about $2,258 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Bullock County?

Bullock County gets about 53.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 14.8% of years.

How remote is Bullock County?

A representative private-land location has about 8,052 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,578,023 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Bullock compares in Alabama

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