Bolthole Index

Conecuh County, Alabama

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

80Index Score / 100
#11 of 67 in Alabama

Unincorporated Conecuh County, Alabama does not require a county building permit for an ordinary home and has no county zoning12. Septic permits are the one local approval that always applies: the Conecuh County Health Department issues them under Alabama's onsite-sewage program, in cities and towns as well as the countryside3. Evergreen, Castleberry and Repton may have their own rules, so ask the town before buying inside one4.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required in unincorporated Conecuh County; no county building-code program identified1
Zoning
None; unincorporated Conecuh County has no comprehensive zoning ordinance52
Septic permits
Conecuh County Health Department, under Alabama Department of Public Health onsite-sewage rules6
RV / tiny home / manufactured home living
Unrestricted under county rules, since Conecuh County has no zoning authority7
Minimum lot size, dwelling size, setbacks, height
None set by the county7
Owner-builder exemption
Available statewide for an owner personally building or improving their own one- or two-family home, not offered for sale8
Agricultural building exemption
Available statewide for a qualifying agricultural building, excluding any residence inside it9
Septic soil difficulty
28.6% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field10

Who to call

Septic permits

Conecuh County Health Department, Environmental Services

Onsite sewage disposal questions and other environmental health services for Conecuh County

251-578-7449

102 Wild Avenue, Evergreen, Alabama 36401

Property records

Conecuh County Revenue Commissioner

Property tax appraisal, assessment and parcel records for Conecuh County; housed at the county courthouse, the office to confirm a parcel's assessed value, acreage and tax history before you buy

251-578-7019

Conecuh County Courthouse, 111 Court Square, Evergreen, AL 36401

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Conecuh 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 Conecuh County, Alabama?

No. There are no building codes enforced in unincorporated Conecuh County, and no comprehensive zoning ordinance either, according to the county's own multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan2. Alabama law does let a county commission adopt building laws and codes for unincorporated areas by ordinance, but nothing in the reviewed county materials shows Conecuh County has done so1. The state's own Division of Construction Management doesn't fill that gap either: its State Building Code jurisdiction is limited to state-funded work, public K-12 and postsecondary schools, hotels, motels, and movie theaters, and it explicitly does not cover ordinary residential property11. Statewide rules are changing: starting January 1, 2027, a residential home builder must follow the Alabama Residential Building Code or a local jurisdiction's own adopted code, but that code is enforced only by local jurisdictions that run a permitting and inspection program, and Conecuh County hasn't been shown to run one12. If you're building or improving your own one- or two-family home for your own use and not for sale, Alabama's Home Builders Licensure Law exempts you personally from needing a residential contractor's license, as long as you provide all the material supervision yourself8.

Who issues building permits in Conecuh County, and who handles septic permits?

We could not confirm a Conecuh County building department or any office that issues building permits for unincorporated land. Septic permits and septic questions go to the Conecuh County Health Department's Environmental Office at 102 Wild Avenue, Evergreen, Alabama 36401, 251-578-744913. The Health Department provides onsite-sewage disposal and private-well water-testing services, but we could not confirm a Conecuh-specific permit rule for an individual private well14. For a parcel's assessed value, acreage, or tax history, contact the Conecuh County Revenue Commissioner at the county courthouse, 111 Court Square, Evergreen, AL 36401, 251-578-701915. A driveway connecting to an Alabama state highway requires an ALDOT access permit rather than a county permit16. We also could not confirm the local floodplain administrator; ask the county commission who issues development permits before doing work in a mapped flood hazard area.

Does Conecuh County have zoning, and do Evergreen, Castleberry or Repton?

No countywide zoning ordinance applies to unincorporated Conecuh County17. Conecuh County therefore sets no county minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setback, lot-coverage limit, or building-height limit on unincorporated land7. RVs, tiny homes, manufactured homes, accessory dwellings, and temporary camping are likewise unrestricted by county zoning on unincorporated land7. That answer does not settle rules inside a city or town. An official City of Evergreen zoning map identifies residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural/open districts, although the county's hazard-mitigation plan reports no zoning ordinance for Evergreen, Castleberry or Repton, so buyers inside any of them should ask the town which current standards govern the parcel4181920. Septic permits stay with the Conecuh County Health Department either way3. Alabama counties may still regulate narrow subjects such as flood-prone development even without broad zoning authority, so a parcel in a mapped flood hazard area can still require local approval2122.

Who issues septic permits in Conecuh County, and how do they work?

Alabama law requires any homeowner or business not connected to a public sanitary sewer to get a permit from the local health department before installing a new onsite sewage system or repairing an existing one, and that's the Conecuh County Health Department here1323. Before the permit is issued, the site must be evaluated, and only a registered engineer may design a system where the soil percolation rate is slower than 60 minutes or where a shallow limiting zone like groundwater, clay, or bedrock is present23. Only 28.6% of the county's land is free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so a site evaluation is required before you can assume a standard system will work10. Call the health department before beginning installation so it can schedule the required inspection, and don't occupy the building until the department issues an Approval for Use24. Off-grid sanitation is contemplated by the same rules: an onsite system is the standard option wherever a property isn't connected to a public sanitary sewer, subject to the same permit, site-evaluation, and Approval for Use steps25.

Can you live in an RV, manufactured home, or tiny home on your land in Conecuh County?

Yes, under county rules. Because unincorporated Conecuh County has no zoning ordinance, RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, manufactured-home occupancy, and accessory dwellings are all unrestricted at the county level7. A manufactured home still has to meet Alabama's statutory definition to count as one: it must be at least 8 body feet wide and 40 body feet long while traveling, or at least 320 square feet once erected, built on a permanent chassis, connected to required plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical utilities, and carry a HUD Seal26. If you're setting up a dedicated RV park rather than parking your own RV on your own land, Alabama's onsite-sewage rules require the local health department to designate the site, require one sanitary station for every 50 vehicles the park is designed to hold, and cap occupancy at the designed capacity27. That RV-park rule is a different situation from an individual living in an RV on their own unzoned land, which Conecuh County's lack of zoning leaves unrestricted7.

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

First, know that there's no county building-permit application to file for an ordinary home in unincorporated Conecuh County, since the county has no building-code program1. Second, if you're doing the work yourself, confirm you qualify for Alabama's owner-builder exemption: you must be building or improving your own one- or two-family home for your own occupancy, not for sale, and you must personally provide all material supervision8. Third, if you hire subcontractors, know that any subcontractor whose portion of the work costs more than $10,000 must be licensed28. Fourth, contact the Conecuh County Health Department early for a site evaluation, since your septic design depends on it and only a registered engineer can design a system on slow-draining or shallow-limiting-zone soil1323. Fifth, get your septic Permit to Install before starting construction on your sewage system, and call the health department again before installation so it can schedule the required inspection2524. Sixth, if your driveway connects to a state highway, apply for an ALDOT permit using Form BM-111 before construction16. Seventh, get your septic Approval for Use before occupying the building24.

What to check before you buy land in Conecuh County

Confirm the parcel's soil suitability for septic early: 28.6% of Conecuh County's land is free of severe septic limitations, and the county still gets about 60 inches of rain a year, so drainage and site evaluation both matter1029. Land here is mostly gentle and heavily wooded, with 87.8% at 15% slope or less and 84.6% forested, so clearing costs are worth budgeting even though grading rarely is a problem3031. Because Conecuh County has no zoning, there's no county-set minimum lot size, so if the tract you're buying was split from a larger parcel, ask whether Alabama's subdivision rules under Ala. Code § 11-24-1 apply, since counties aren't required to adopt subdivision regulations and Conecuh's status wasn't confirmed for this guide32. Ask the Health Department directly about septic and well suitability for the specific parcel before you commit13. Property tax runs low here, about 0.3% effectively, with a median bill near $328 a year against a typical home value around $133,777, and you can confirm a specific parcel's assessed value and tax history with the Revenue Commissioner's office at the courthouse before you buy33343515.

Watch-outs

  • No official source confirms whether Conecuh County has adopted subdivision regulations under Ala. Code § 11-24-1; if your tract was recently split from a larger parcel, ask the county commission directly32.
  • We could not confirm who administers floodplain-development permits in Conecuh County; check FEMA flood maps and ask the county commission or the Health Department before you buy in a low-lying area36.
  • Starting January 1, 2027, Alabama residential builders must follow the Alabama Residential Building Code or a local jurisdiction's own code, but only where that jurisdiction runs a permitting and inspection program; watch for Conecuh County to potentially adopt one before that date12.

Sources

  1. Alabama EMA - Division A Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (2026 county census)
  2. Conecuh County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, quoted and re-checked
  3. Soil and Onsite Sewage, quoted and re-checked
  4. City of Evergreen Zoning Map 2014, quoted and re-checked
  5. Conecuh County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (2026 county census)
  6. Environmental Services (2026 county census)
  7. Alabama law on county zoning and building authority
  8. Exemptions – Home Builders Licensure Board (2026 county census)
  9. Rule 465-X-3-.03 Exemptions, quoted and re-checked
  10. 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
  11. State Building Code (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Home Builders Licensure Law, Effective October 1, 2025 (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Conecuh County Health Department, Environmental Services (alabamapublichealth.gov)
  14. Environmental Services | Conecuh County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  15. Conecuh County Revenue Commissioner (revenue.alabama.gov)
  16. ALDOT Permit Manual (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Conecuh County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan 2026, quoted and re-checked
  18. Conecuh County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan 2026, quoted and re-checked
  19. Conecuh County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan 2026, quoted and re-checked
  20. Conecuh County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan 2026, quoted and re-checked
  21. Alabama County Commissioners Handbook, 13th Edition (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. 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
  23. Onsite Sewage Disposal | Alabama Department of Public Health, quoted and re-checked
  24. Onsite Sewage Disposal | Alabama Department of Public Health, quoted and re-checked
  25. Septic Tank Systems, quoted and re-checked
  26. What is a manufactured home? (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Chapter 420-3-1 Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  28. Exemptions (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Handbook for Alabama County Commissioners (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data
  36. My house is in a floodplain. What do I do if I want to build an addition or otherwise improve it?, quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 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

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Conecuh County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleConecuh CountyButler CountyMonroe CountyEscambia CountyCovington CountyWilcox CountyCrenshaw County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Conecuh County in Alabama

80
County map
Conecuh County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score

How Conecuh County scores

Seclusion79100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency68100% ev.
Admin Boringness88100% ev.
Durability56100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost91100% 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 →

$134kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$2,458Land / acre
60"Annual rain
10.5% of yrsSevere drought
11.5 / yr (+10.4)Mid-century 100°F days
16.3 daysMid-century dry spell
3.1" (+5.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.3×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,920Home insurance / yr
-0.4% / yrInsurance growth
0.59%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
5,447People within 30 min
1,714,993People within 2 hr
12,312Radius comparison (15 mi)
13.1People / sq mi
0.1%Federal land
87.8%Land at 15% slope or less
28.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
155,281 acWorkable land screen
84.6%Wooded land
41.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
65.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Conecuh 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.

Town of Castleberry · Evergreen · Town of Repton

Answers from the rulebook for Conecuh County

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

Conecuh County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Conecuh County zoning ordinance and related countywide zoning program.

    • The source identifies the county entry as not having the listed zoning ordinance/program in place or being implemented.
    • Municipal rules may apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    “For example, there are no building codes enforced in unincorporated Conecuh County nor any comprehensive zoning ordinances.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — County zoning ordinance administered by Conecuh County for unincorporated Conecuh County.
      “A “No” (N) indicates the items is not in place or being implemented. [...] Jurisdiction Zoning Ordinance Code Enforcement Recent Master Plan Certified Flood Manager NFIP Participation Conecuh County N N N N Y”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 septicCounty

    Onsite sewage disposal administration for residents of Conecuh County, including the county health department environmental-services office.

    • The source identifies the Conecuh County Health Department as providing the listed environmental health services; it does not state that municipalities lack separate sewer authority or requirements.
    “The Conecuh County Health Department provides environmental health services to residents. [...] Onsite Sewage Disposal”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • County — Environmental administration of onsite sewage services for residents of Conecuh County.
      “The Conecuh County Health Department provides environmental health services to residents. [...] Onsite Sewage Disposal”
    • County — Onsite sewage services for residents of Conecuh County, including onsite sewage disposal.
      “The Conecuh County Health Department provides environmental health services to residents. Below is a list of the services provided by the Bureau of Environmental Services. [...] Onsite Sewage Disposal”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction of an onsite sewage disposal system for a residence in Conecuh County.

    • The application must be submitted to the local county health department.
    • The application and plans must be complete and meet all applicable rules.
    • Construction may begin only after the Permit to Install is issued.
    • Where municipal sewer is unavailable or impractical, a septic system may be used, subject to the permit process.
    • The source does not state a Conecuh-specific fee, exemption, or effective date.
    “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.”

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 exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Owners constructing or improving a one-family or two-family residence on their property in Conecuh County, including unincorporated areas, when acting as their own contractor.

    • The owner must provide all material supervision themselves.
    • The residence must be for the occupancy or use of the owners.
    • The residence must not be offered for sale.
    • The exemption is nontransferable, including to an agent through a power of attorney.
    • Offering the residence for sale within one year after completion is presumptive evidence that construction was undertaken for sale.
    • Homeowners who hire or compensate anyone to supervise the building or improvement are not acting as their own contractor.
    • Subcontractors hired by an exempt homeowner must be licensed if the cost of the subcontractor's portion exceeds $10,000.
    • The exemption concerns the Alabama residential home-builder licensing requirement and does not eliminate any separate local building, permit, septic, or other applicable requirements.

    residence type: one-family or two-family · sale-evidence period: 1 year after completion (Sale or offering for sale is presumptive evidence construction was undertaken for sale) · subcontractor portion cost threshold: > 10000 USD (Subcontractor must be licensed)

    “This chapter does not apply to: [...] 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 may not be transferred to any other person, including, but not limited to, an agent through a power of attorney.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — An owner acting as the owner's own contractor and providing all material supervision for building or improving a one-family or two-family residence on the owner's property for the owner's occupancy or use, when the residence is not offered for sale.
      “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.”
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner acting as the owner's own residential home builder for a one-family or two-family residence on the owner's property, for the owner's own occupancy or use.
      “The licensing requirements of the Act shall not apply to:”
    • 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.”
    • Conditional — Owners building or improving one-family or two-family residences in Alabama for their 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”
  • 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.”
    12 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Alabama State Building Code, including covered state-funded, institutional, hotel/motel, movie-theater, and related projects located in Conecuh County.
      “The 2021 International Building Code adopted on July 1, 2022”
    • Partial — Specified construction categories in Conecuh County subject to Alabama's State Building Code, including state-owned or state-funded property, public and private K-12 schools, public postsecondary schools, hotels/motels, and movie theaters.
      “DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    • 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Building inspections administered by the Alabama Department of Finance, Division of Construction Management, for qualifying projects located in Conecuh County.
      “Project Inspection Division: Facilitates required pre-construction conferences and conducts required inspections of projects under construction to ensure acceptable building practices, code compliance and conformance with contract documents. In conjunction with the Design Professional and Awarding Authority/Owner, DCM Inspectors establish substantial completion for building occupancy. 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.”
    • Limited — Residential construction governed by the Alabama Residential Building Code in local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs.
      “The county commission may employ building inspectors”
    • 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 inspectionRequired

    Onsite sewage systems in Conecuh County installed or repaired under Alabama's onsite sewage program.

    • The health department must be contacted before installation to schedule an inspection.
    • The health department issues an Approval for Use before the building can be occupied.
    • The permit and state regulations must be satisfied before approval for use.
    “Call the health department prior to beginning the installation to schedule an inspection. The health department will issue an "Approval for Use" before the building can be occupied.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid residential or business sanitation using onsite sewage disposal in Conecuh County.

    • Onsite septic systems are used where municipal sewers are unavailable or impractical.
    • When municipal sewer is unavailable, the property must undergo soil testing to determine suitability for onsite sewage disposal.
    • A Permit to Install is required before construction, and an Approval for Use is required before occupancy.
    • This claim addresses permitted onsite sewage disposal; it does not establish that every type of composting toilet, pit privy, holding tank, or other alternative sanitation system is unrestricted.
    “If it is not, you will be required to have the soil tested to see if the soil is suitable for the installation of an onsite sewage disposal system (septic tank system). [...] 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Private residential sanitation using an onsite sewage disposal system instead of municipal sewer in Conecuh County.
      “Septic tank systems are used where municipal sewers are not available or are impractical.”
    • Allowed (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.
      “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

    Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board licensing requirements for agricultural buildings, including agricultural buildings in Conecuh County.

    • The exemption is for agricultural buildings as defined in Ala. Admin. Code r. 465-X-1-.01(3).
    • The exemption does not apply to any residence contained in the agricultural building.

    effective date: 2018-10-11

    “(7) Agricultural buildings, as defined in Ala. Admin. Code r. 465-X-1-.01(3), except for any residence contained therein.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision development in Alabama, including county authority in unincorporated areas and applicable municipal-planning-commission territorial jurisdictions.

    • Alabama does not require every county commission to adopt subdivision regulations.
    • A county may regulate subdivision development under Ala. Code § 11-24-1 et seq. if it adopts regulations and complies with statutory procedures and enforcement requirements.
    • For municipal planning commission extraterritorial areas, a county that has adopted subdivision regulations is responsible unless the statutory agreement or municipal override exceptions apply.
    • The cited handbook describes infrastructure controls for new development in unincorporated county areas but does not establish statewide minimum lot dimensions.
    “While there is no requirement in Alabama that the county commission adopt regulations regarding subdivision development, Ala. Code § 11-24-1 et seq. provides strong statutory authority for each county to regulate subdivision development within its territorial jurisdiction.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction of a turnout or driveway access from private, publicly-owned, or commercial property to an Alabama state highway in Conecuh County.

    • A completed BM-111 application must be submitted to the District Administrator.
    • Turnouts are regulated for entrance width, radii, placement, angle of entry, vertical alignment, drainage, and number of entrances; major developments are regulated based on the overall development area.
    • The District Administrator forwards conforming applications to the Region/Area for approval, subject to the ALDOT Levels of Review and Approval.
    • All turnout costs are paid by the applicant.
    • The minimum side-drain pipe size is 15 inches; Regions may require 18-inch pipe.
    • Existing commercial driveway improvements and changes in use are governed by the same regulations as a new entrance, including application and permit issuance.

    minimum side-drain pipe diameter: >= 15 inches (Regions have authority to 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Constructing a driveway, turnout, or other access from private, publicly owned, or commercial property to an Alabama state highway.
      “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 floodplainLimited

    Additions and other improvements to buildings in floodplains in Conecuh County, subject to the applicable local floodplain administrator and any more stringent local requirements.

    • If the improvement is less than 50% of the existing structure's market value, the improvement must meet or exceed the standards used to construct the existing structure, assuming the existing structure was compliant when built.
    • Improvements valued at 50% or more of the existing structure's market value are substantial improvements and the entire structure must be brought into compliance with the elevations on the map in effect when the improvement begins.
    • Under certain circumstances, only the addition needs to be elevated to the mapped flood elevations.
    • More stringent local requirements take precedence over the ADECA guidance.
    • ADECA states that a development permit will likely be needed regardless of whether the building is substantially improved, and the owner should contact the local building official.

    substantial-improvement threshold: >= 50 percent of existing structure market value (Under certain circumstances, only the addition needs to be elevated.)

    “Additions or other improvements valued at 50% or more of the market value of the existing structure are considered substantial improvements.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    ADEM NPDES Construction General Permit applications for regulated construction stormwater discharges in Conecuh County, Alabama, under the fee schedule current on 2026-10-06.

    • The current CSW fee information states initial/reissuance fees of $1,385 and modification fees of $800.
    • The fee applies to ADEM construction stormwater permit actions; the cited source does not establish that every construction project in Conecuh County requires this permit.
    • The ADEM page separately identifies information updates with no fee, including changes or additions of a new responsible official or permit contacts, a new QCP, or the permittee mailing address.

    initial or reissuance fee: 1385 USD · modification fee: 800 USD · information update fee: 0 USD (For listed information updates)

    “Fees - Current • Initial/Reissuance $1385 • Modification $800”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — ADEM Construction General Permit coverage for regulated construction stormwater discharges in Conecuh County.
      “An application fee of $1,385.00 will be required upon submission of an application.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Alabama construction sites requiring ADEM Construction Stormwater permit coverage.
      “An application fee of $1,385.00 will be required upon submission of an application.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    ADEM Construction General Permit coverage for construction activities in Conecuh County that meet the regulated land-disturbance criteria.

    • Coverage is required for disturbance of one or more acres; less than one acre when part of a common plan that will ultimately disturb one or more acres; or any-size sites whose discharges have a reasonable potential to cause or contribute to a water-quality concern.
    • Coverage is not required for the listed animal-feeding-operation circumstances, normal agricultural activities, silvicultural activities, or listed minor land-disturbing activities such as home gardens, individual home landscaping, home repairs or maintenance, fence installation or maintenance, directional boring, hand-hole digging, and specified roadway-resurfacing improvements.
    • The applicant must retain a Qualified Credentialed Professional, prepare a CBMPP, submit an NOI through AEPACS, provide the required signatures and maps, and pay the application fee.
    • If the site is in a priority watershed, the CBMPP must be included with the application; otherwise it is not required to be included.

    land-disturbance threshold: >= 1 acre (Less than one acre is covered when part of a common plan of development or sale that will ultimately disturb one or more acres, or when discharges have a reasonable potential to cause or contribute to a water-quality concern.) · permitting determination response time: generally 2–3 days

    “Step 3: Submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) through AEPACS”
    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.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Occupancy of recreational vehicles at an Alabama Recreational Vehicle Park, including a park in Conecuh County, for purposes governed by the state onsite-sewage rules.

    • The site must be designated an RV Park by the local health department for purposes of regulating sewage disposal.
    • The RVs must be mobile.
    • The lots and all appurtenances and utilities, including the onsite sewage system, must be owned and operated by a responsible person.
    • The responsible person must provide sewage treatment and disposal or a sanitary station for RV waste disposal off-site.
    • There must be one sanitary station for wastewater disposal for every 50 vehicles the park is designed to accommodate.
    • The location and design of the sanitary station or onsite sewage system must be permitted by the local health department.
    • The park may not take in more RVs than it was designed to accommodate at one time.
    • Sanitary stations may receive only sewage.
    • Except for the onboard sewage storage tank built into the RV, no other sewage disposal or storage is allowed unless approved by the local health department.
    • If lots are sold under different conditions, the development is treated as a small- or large-flow development and must meet the applicable rule requirements.
    • The current rule history states that the new rule was effective February 13, 2023.

    sanitary stations: per 1 per 50 vehicles (For the number of vehicles the park is designed to accommodate.)

    “For purposes of regulating sewage disposal, a site may be designated a Recreational Vehicle (RV) Park by the LHD if it meets the following conditions: [...] The park shall not take in more RVs than it was designed to accommodate at any one time.”
  • 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 Conecuh County

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

  • Local zoningAbsent

    Zoning ordinance administered by the Town of Castleberry within its municipal jurisdiction.

    • The source distinguishes the Town of Castleberry from Conecuh County and the other named municipalities.
    • Floodplain-management regulations remain applicable in participating jurisdictions.
    “A “No” (N) indicates the items is not in place or being implemented. [...] Town of Castleberry N N N N Y”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land within the City of Evergreen, Conecuh County, Alabama.
      “CITY OF EVERGREEN ZONING MAP 2014 [...] B-2 Commercial, Local Shopping [...] R-1 Residential, Single Family”
    • Absent — Zoning ordinance administered by the City of Evergreen within its municipal jurisdiction.
      “A “No” (N) indicates the items is not in place or being implemented. [...] City of Evergreen N N N N Y”
    • Absent — Zoning ordinance administered by the Town of Repton within its municipal jurisdiction.
      “A “No” (N) indicates the items is not in place or being implemented. [...] Town of Repton N N N N Y”

Still unanswered

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

  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rentals in Conecuh 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 Conecuh County, Alabama

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

Conecuh County scores 80/100 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 Conecuh County, Alabama?

Conecuh 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 Conecuh County Health Department (Alabama Dept 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 Conecuh County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Conecuh County is allowed: Unincorporated Conecuh County: no county rule sets this, because Conecuh County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Conecuh 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 Conecuh County, Alabama?

Land in Conecuh County runs about $2,458 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Conecuh County?

Conecuh County gets about 60" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 10.5% of years.

How remote is Conecuh County?

A representative private-land location has about 5,447 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,714,993 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 Conecuh compares in Alabama

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