Bolthole Index

Dale County, Alabama

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

77Index Score / 100
#20 of 67 in Alabama

Unincorporated Dale County, Alabama does not require a general building permit and has no county zoning ordinance12. Dale County regulates subdivisions within its jurisdiction, and the Dale County Health Department handles septic applications and permits under Alabama’s statewide onsite-sewage program345. Municipal zoning differs: Daleville zones land within its city limits and requires its own building permits there678.

At a glance

Building permit
No general building permit in unincorporated Dale County1
Zoning
No county zoning ordinance in unincorporated areas2
Septic permits
Dale County Health Department handles applications and permits under the state onsite-sewage program45
RV and tiny-home living
County zoning sets no occupancy restriction in unincorporated Dale County9
Minimum size and setbacks
County zoning sets no minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size or setbacks9
Owner-builder
A qualifying owner may act as contractor on their own one- or two-family residence1011
Subdivision review
County review applies within Dale County's subdivision jurisdiction3
Agricultural buildings
Exempt from home-builder licensing, except for a residence inside the building1213

Who to call

Septic permits

Dale County Health Department, Environmental Services

Onsite sewage and septic questions for Dale County

334-774-5146

532 W. Roy Parker Road, Ozark, Alabama 36360

Roads & driveways

Dale County Road and Bridge, County Engineer's Office

County-road and right-of-way requests, driveway pipe installation questions, and subdivision materials

(334) 774-5875

1725 County Road 30, Ozark, Alabama 36360

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 24, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Dale 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 Dale County, Alabama?

Unincorporated Dale County does not require a general building permit, but septic, subdivision, floodplain and highway-access approvals can still apply11431516. Alabama exempts agricultural buildings from residential home-builder licensing, except for a residence contained inside the building; that exemption does not waive other applicable requirements1213. Beginning January 1, 2027, covered residential builders must follow the applicable Alabama or local residential building code framework even where the county does not operate a general building-permit program17.

Who handles building-permit questions and other approvals in Dale County?

For unincorporated Dale County, no general building permit is required; start with the County Engineer for subdivision jurisdiction and floodplain Development Permits1315. Dale County Road and Bridge is at 1725 County Road 30, Ozark, Alabama 36360; call (334) 774-5875 for driveway-pipe and county-road right-of-way requests18. For septic applications and permits, call the Dale County Health Department Environmental Office at 334-774-5146 or visit 532 W. Roy Parker Road, Ozark, Alabama 36360194. Inside Ozark the city issues building permits and sets zoning, and inside Daleville the city zoning ordinance requires a building permit from the city’s Administrative Official for covered construction20218. Daleville’s zoning-related application and approval fees are set by separate resolution or ordinance and can be revised by the City Council, so ask Daleville City Hall for the current schedule2223. The county’s rules apply to unincorporated Dale County only; septic permits for every address, city or not, come from the Dale County Health Department2425.

Does Dale County have zoning?

Unincorporated Dale County has no county zoning ordinance2. County zoning therefore sets no minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setbacks, lot coverage or building height, and places no zoning restriction on accessory dwellings, RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, manufactured-home occupancy or temporary camping9. Septic approval, subdivision review and statewide housing requirements still apply where relevant14326. Ozark and Daleville have city zoning; septic authority remains with Dale County health officials2162425. Enterprise, mainly in Coffee County but reaching into Dale County, also has its own zoning; off-sewer installation or repair still requires a local health-department septic permit2728. County subdivision jurisdiction generally excludes territory served by an organized and functioning municipal planning commission3.

How do septic permits work in Dale County?

The Alabama Department of Public Health sets and enforces the statewide rules for designing, permitting, installing, approving and using onsite sewage systems, and the Dale County Health Department takes the applications and issues the permits29530. Before installing or repairing an off-sewer system, submit professional soils information, a legal description, plot plan, vicinity map and any required construction plan to the local health department3114. Installation cannot be covered or used until the health department has had an opportunity to inspect and required corrections are complete, subject to the rule’s exceptions; use requires Approval for Use32. Only 34.9% of Dale County soils avoid severe conventional drain-field limitations, so arrange a site evaluation before buying33. Lots of at least 3 acres that meet Small-Flow OSS Development requirements are excluded from state Large-Flow Development requirements; a separate sewerless single-family subdivision exception requires a plat restriction and qualifying bedrock, percolation and water-table conditions3435. Neither health exception is a blanket waiver of county or municipal subdivision review343.

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

Unincorporated Dale County’s lack of county zoning leaves RV and tiny-home occupancy without a county zoning restriction, but onsite sanitation still requires the applicable septic permit, inspection and Approval for Use93632. Alabama classifies park models as temporary quarters for recreational, camping, travel or seasonal use, rather than permanent dwellings37. A qualifying manufactured home used as a residence must meet Alabama’s statewide requirements, including applicable utility connections26. We could not confirm every off-grid sanitation method or a general private-well construction permit for Dale County; ask the Dale County Health Department Environmental Office about the proposed water and wastewater setup193839.

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

  1. Confirm municipal limits and planning jurisdiction: Daleville applies city zoning, and Dale County subdivision jurisdiction generally excludes territory under an organized and functioning municipal planning commission673.
  1. Ask the County Engineer whether a land split requires subdivision review; agricultural road or building work on private agricultural property is excluded, but not every agricultural land division4018.
  1. Check the flood map and obtain a Development Permit from the Dale County Engineer before work in an Area of Special Flood Hazard under county jurisdiction15.
  1. Arrange professional soils information and apply to the Dale County Health Department with the required site documents3114.
  1. Resolve county-road access with the County Engineer; Alabama state-highway access requires a BM-111 application to the ALDOT District Administrator1816.
  1. Give the health department the required inspection opportunity before covering the septic system, complete corrections and obtain Approval for Use before using it32.

What should you check before buying land in Dale County?

A Dale County land division may require County Commission plat review; agricultural road or building work exclusions do not exempt every agricultural land division340. Flood-hazard development under county jurisdiction requires a Development Permit from the County Engineer before work begins15. Terrain is broadly workable, with 87.5% of county land at a slope of 15% or less, but only 34.9% of soils avoid severe conventional drain-field limitations4133. For an existing home, check wastewater repair options: when an onsite system fails, cannot be repaired under state rules and public sewer is available within 500 feet, sewer connection is required subject to approval by appropriate officials42. Dale County’s effective property-tax rate is about 0.3%, and its median annual property-tax bill is about $4264344.

Watch-outs

  • No general building permit in unincorporated Dale County does not waive septic, subdivision, floodplain or highway-access approvals13631516.
  • A 3-acre lot alone does not establish a state health subdivision exemption: Small-Flow OSS requirements or the separate statutory soil, water-table and plat conditions must be met3435.
  • An unrepairable failing septic system requires connection when public sewer is available within 500 feet, subject to approval by appropriate officials42.

Sources

  1. Dale County Road and Bridge - Building or Zoning Codes (2026 county census)
  2. Dale County Road and Bridge - Building or Zoning Codes (2026 county census)
  3. Dale County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  4. Services | Alabama Department of Public Health, quoted and re-checked
  5. Soil and Onsite Sewage | Alabama Department of Public Health, quoted and re-checked
  6. Daleville: Employment | Daleville Alabama (Dale County), quoted and re-checked
  7. Zoning Ordinance of the City of Daleville, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  8. City of Daleville Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  9. Alabama law on county zoning and building authority
  10. Exemptions (2026 county census)
  11. Exemptions (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Exemptions – Home Builders Licensure Board, quoted and re-checked
  13. Rule 465-X-3-.03 Exemptions, quoted and re-checked
  14. Services | Alabama Department of Public Health, quoted and re-checked
  15. Dale County, Alabama Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  16. ALDOT Permit Manual, quoted and re-checked
  17. Home Builders Licensure Board Law Effective October 1, 2025 (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. Dale County Road and Bridge, County Engineer's Office (dalecountyal.org)
  19. Dale County Health Department, Environmental Services (alabamapublichealth.gov)
  20. Ozark: Inspection Department | City of Ozark (Dale County), quoted and re-checked
  21. Ozark: Ozark Code, Appendix A, Article IV, Section 3, Categories of uses (Dale County), quoted and re-checked
  22. City of Daleville Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  23. Building & Zoning | Daleville Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  24. Ozark: Services | Dale County Health Department (Dale County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Daleville: Sec. 24-42. Construction of septic tanks (Dale County), quoted and re-checked
  26. What are the requirements for titling a manufactured home? (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Enterprise: Enterprise Code, Appendix A, Article 2, Sec. 2.03 General Definitions (Dale County), quoted and re-checked
  28. Enterprise: Alabama Department of Public Health, Onsite Sewage (Dale County), quoted and re-checked
  29. Soil and Onsite Sewage | Alabama Department of Public Health, quoted and re-checked
  30. alabamapublichealth.gov, quoted and re-checked
  31. Onsite Sewage | Alabama Department of Public Health, quoted and re-checked
  32. Chapter 420-3-1 Onsite Sewage Treatment And Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  33. 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
  34. Rule 420-3-1-.14 Requirements And Exceptions To Large-Flow Developments, quoted and re-checked
  35. alabamapublichealth.gov, quoted and re-checked
  36. Services | Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), quoted and re-checked
  37. Chapter 535-X-11 Regulations for Manufactured Buildings (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  38. Septic Tank Systems (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  39. Coastal Permitting Information (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  40. Dale County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  41. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Chapter 420-3-1 Onsite Sewage Treatment And Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  43. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  44. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 24, 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 4 of the neighbors with published rules, Dale County has no countywide zoning.

RuleDale CountyHenry CountyCoffee CountyGeneva CountyHouston CountyBarbour CountyPike County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredRequiredLimitedNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNot publishedNot publishedNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Dale County in Alabama

77
County map
Dale County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score

How Dale County scores

Seclusion58100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency68100% ev.
Admin Boringness86100% ev.
Durability65100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost88100% 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 →

$165kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$3,912Land / acre
56.2"Annual rain
16.4% of yrsSevere drought
13.7 / yr (+12.5)Mid-century 100°F days
16.9 daysMid-century dry spell
2.88" (+4.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.22×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,850Home insurance / yr
0% / yrInsurance growth
0.77%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
21,619People within 30 min
1,522,993People within 2 hr
53,459Radius comparison (15 mi)
88.9People / sq mi
12.5%Federal land
87.5%Land at 15% slope or less
34.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
124,945 acWorkable land screen
71.5%Wooded land
48.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
66°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Dale 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 Ariton · Town of Clayhatchee · Town of Grimes · Town of Level Plains · Midland City · Town of Napier Field · Town of Newton · Town of Pinckard

Answers from the rulebook for Dale County

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

Dale County rules

  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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 Dale County: no county rule sets this, because Dale County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Alabama law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing dalecountyal.gov.

    • 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

    Dale County Health Department administration of onsite sewage and septic services in Dale County

    • The Dale County Health Department page lists onsite sewage applications and permits, septic tank, grease trap, and holding tank applications and permits, sewage tank pumper applications and permits, and private well water testing.
    “The Dale County Health Department provides the following services to the public. [...] Onsite Sewage - Applications and Permits”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Onsite sewage, septic tank, grease trap, and holding tank applications and permits in Dale County.
      “The Dale County Health Department provides the following services to the public. [...] Onsite Sewage - Applications and Permits [...] Septic Tank, Grease Trap, and Holding Tank - Applications and Permits”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation and use of onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems in Dale County

    • Dale County Health Department provides onsite sewage applications and permits.
    • The statewide ADPH program establishes and enforces permitting, installation, approval, and use requirements.
    • The completed septic system permit is also called the Approval for Use.
    “you must submit an Application for a Permit to Install an Onsite Sewage Disposal System to your local county health department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation, repair, covering, occupancy, and use of an onsite sewage system in Dale County.

    • No part of the installation may be covered or used until the LHD has an opportunity to inspect and necessary corrections are made, except as allowed by the rule.
    • The OSS/EDS may not be used until the LHD issues an Approval for Use.
    • Before Approval for Use, the installer must use a valid Permit to Install (Repair), agree on an inspection time with the LHD Public Health Environmentalist, and contact the PHE by 9 a.m. on the inspection date.
    • The LHD may allow covering when resource constraints, weather, or unforeseen circumstances prevent inspection within 30 minutes after the agreed inspection time.
    • The installer must submit ADPH Form CEP-5 within 3 business days of completion; engineer-designed systems also require CEP-6 certification.
    • For an existing OSS evaluation, the LHD may require a professional site evaluation and repair permit; evidence of pumping within the last 3 years may be required.

    installer certification deadline: 3 business days (ADPH Form CEP-5 after system completion) · inspection scheduling tolerance: 30 minutes (LHD may allow covering when inspection cannot occur within this period after agreed time)

    “Except as allowed in this rule, no part of any installation shall be covered or used until the LHD is afforded an opportunity to inspect and any necessary corrections are made, An OSS/EDS shall not be used until an Approval for Use has been issued by the LHD.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Construction or development of roads or buildings on private property used for agricultural purposes, within the area otherwise subject to Dale County subdivision regulations.

    • The exclusion applies to construction or development of roads or buildings, not generally to every division or sale of agricultural land.
    • The property must be private property and the roads or buildings must be used for agricultural purposes.
    • Other subdivision exclusions and conditions may separately apply, including immediate-family transfers, qualifying parcels greater than five acres, and specified State Board of Health exemptions.
    • Health, septic, floodplain, environmental, utility, and other applicable state or local requirements may still apply.
    “The construction or development of roads or buildings on private property to be used for agricultural purposes.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision development within Dale County's subdivision jurisdiction, generally areas outside municipal corporate limits except areas within the territorial jurisdiction of an organized and functional municipal planning commission.

    • The County Commission reviews, approves, and disapproves subdivision plats.
    • A proposed plat must be submitted to the County Engineer at least 30 days before County Commission consideration.
    • Following proposed-plat approval, the County Engineer issues a Permit to Develop for a $25 fee.
    • Lots may not be sold, transferred, or leased until the final plat is recorded with the Judge of Probate.
    • The developer must begin substantial work within one year after issuance of the Permit to Develop or resubmit the plat for approval.
    • County subdivision rules incorporate applicable Health Department, Alabama Department of Transportation, Alabama Department of Environmental Management, county, utility, and other statutory requirements.
    • The regulations state that they were adopted by Resolution # 2013-08-12-01 on August 12, 2013; the document does not state a calendar effective date because effectiveness is tied to filing a certified copy with the Probate Judge and the applicable 30-day period.

    permit to develop fee: 25 USD · proposed plat submission lead time: >= 30 days (before County Commission consideration) · minimum parcel size for specified exclusion: > 5 acres (each parcel must also have at least 60 feet of frontage, require no public-utility extension, and create no additional stormwater runoff in the licensed engineer's opinion) · construction commencement deadline after permit issuance: 1 year (otherwise the proposed plat must be resubmitted)

    “areas outside the corporate limits of any municipality”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development activities and the location, extension, conversion, or alteration of structures or land within all Areas of Special Flood Hazard under Dale County's jurisdiction.

    • A Development Permit is required before commencement of any development activities.
    • The ordinance applies to all Areas of Special Flood Hazard within Dale County's jurisdiction.
    • The Areas of Special Flood Hazard are based on FEMA's Flood Insurance Study dated May 2, 2016, accompanying maps and supporting data, and revisions; areas historically flooded or identified through standard engineering analysis may also be included.
    • No structure or land may be located, extended, converted, or altered without full compliance with the ordinance and other applicable regulations.
    • The application is made to the Dale County Engineer, who is the Floodplain Administrator, on county-furnished forms before development activities.
    • Application materials may include plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing elevations, proposed or existing structures, fill placement, storage of materials or equipment, and drainage facilities.
    • Required application-stage information includes the regulatory lowest-floor elevation, non-residential floodproofing elevation, professional engineer or architect certification for proposed non-residential floodproofing, and description of any proposed watercourse alteration or relocation.
    • For new construction and substantial improvements, the permit holder must submit an as-built certification of the regulatory floor elevation or floodproofing level immediately after the lowest floor or floodproofing is completed.
    • For non-residential floodproofing, the certification must be prepared by or under the direct supervision of a professional engineer or architect and certified by that professional.
    • Work undertaken before submission of required certifications is at the permit holder's risk; deficiencies must be corrected before further progressive work, and failure to submit certifications or corrections may result in a stop-work order.
    • The Dale County Engineer must review development permits, confirm sites are reasonably safe from flooding, and verify that required federal and state permits, including Clean Water Act section 404 permits, have been obtained.
    • The Dale County Board of Adjustment hears appeals and variance requests; variances are restricted by the ordinance, including a prohibition in designated floodways when any increase in flood levels during the base flood discharge would result.

    FEMA Flood Insurance Study date: May 2, 2016 (The ordinance also adopts accompanying maps, supporting data, and revisions.)

    “This ordinance shall apply to all Areas of Special Flood Hazard within the jurisdiction of Dale County, Alabama. [...] A Development Permit shall be required in conformance with the provisions of this ordinance PRIOR to the commencement of any Development activities.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    The county's official notice states Dale County has no zoning codes in unincorporated areas; zoning exists only within incorporated cities/towns.

    Dale County Road and Bridge - Building or Zoning Codes ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

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”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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.”
  • 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 hookupSewer (with conditions)

    A failing onsite sewage system when it cannot be repaired and public sewer is available within 500 feet.

    • The connection requirement applies when an OSS fails, cannot be repaired under the rules, and public sewer is available within 500 feet.
    • Connection is subject to approval of appropriate officials.

    maximum distance to public sewer: <= 500 feet (Applies when the OSS fails and cannot be repaired)

    “When an OSS/EDS fails and cannot be repaired in accordance with these rules and public sewer is available (within 500 feet), connection to the public sewer shall be made and is subject to approval of appropriate officials.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Residential or mobile/modular-home development statewide where wastewater service is being planned.
      “If it is not, you will be required to have the soil tested to see if the soil is suitable”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Turnouts and driveway access points from private, publicly owned, or commercial facilities to Alabama state highways, including such access within Dale County.

    • Applicants must submit Permit Form BM-111 to the District Administrator.
    • Turnouts are regulated for entrance width, radii, placement relative to property lines, intersecting streets and crossovers, angle of entry, vertical alignment, drainage, and number of entrances to a single property.
    • For major developments, turnouts are regulated based on the overall development area, not only initial phases.
    • Out parcels within a major development area should be served internally to limit the number of required turnouts.
    • The application is submitted for Region/Area approval when the District Administrator is satisfied that the proposed turnout conforms to current specifications and requirements, subject to the stated ALDOT levels of review and approval.
    • All costs associated with the turnout are paid by the applicant.
    • A full-access turnout may later be reduced to a less-than-full-access configuration.
    • The minimum side-drain-pipe size is 15 inches; Regions may require 18-inch pipe.
    • Commercial turnouts require satisfaction of all Department requirements and receipt of the specified surety bond; improvement costs are paid by the applicant.
    • Major extensions, resurfacing, or paving of existing commercial drives are governed by the same regulations as a new entrance, including application and permit issuance.

    permit application: BM-111 (Submitted to the District Administrator) · minimum side drain pipe: >= 15 inches (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.”
    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.”
  • 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 processPublished (with conditions)

    Alabama construction sites requiring ADEM Construction Stormwater permit coverage.

    • The applicant must read the current Alabama Construction General Permit, retain a Qualified Credentialed Professional, prepare the required construction best management plan, and submit a Notice of Intent through AEPACS.
    • The application requires responsible-official and QCP signatures, maps, and the application fee.

    typical project review determination: 2–3 days (ADEM states determinations are generally issued by email within 2–3 days.)

    “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 Dale County

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

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, excavation, demolition, moving, or alteration of buildings and structures within the City of Daleville, subject to the ordinance exceptions for repairs, painting, wallpapering, and work not changing the character of the structure.

    • A building permit must be issued by the Administrative Official before covered work begins.
    • The ordinance states exceptions for repairs, painting, wallpapering, and work not changing the character of the structure.
    • Applications must include plans, diagrams, and specifications demonstrating compliance with the ordinance.
    “It shall be unlawful to commence excavation for or the construction of any building or structure, including accessory structures or pools; or to commence the demolition of any structure; or to store building materials or erect temporary field offices; or to commence the moving, or alteration (except repairs, painting or wall papering and work not changing the character of the structure) of any structure; until the Administrative Official has issued for any and all such work a building permit.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Property located within the city limits of the City of Daleville, an incorporated municipality in Dale County, Alabama.

    • The ordinance applies to all property located within Daleville city limits.
    • All uses, structures, sites, lots and parcels must comply with the ordinance.
    • No business license may be issued unless the use and property comply with the ordinance.
    • The ordinance establishes minimum requirements and does not lower stricter restrictions in plats, deeds, or private contracts.
    • Where the ordinance conflicts with a statute or local law or regulation, the most restrictive provision applies and is enforced.
    • The Daleville Planning Commission provides planning, zoning, and subdivision controls for the city.
    “The provisions of this Ordinance shall apply to all property located within the city limits of the City of Daleville. All uses, structures, sites, lots and parcels must be in compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — Building and zoning regulation within the City of Daleville, Alabama.
      “Code of Ordinances Building & Zoning Building Permits Building permits are availble at City Hall”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Applications, permits, certificates, and public hearings required under the City of Daleville Zoning Ordinance.

    • The fee schedule is established by separate resolution or ordinance.
    • Fees are computed to recover City costs for reviewing and processing zoning-related requests, including advertising fees.
    • The City Council may adopt and revise the fees as necessary.
    “A schedule of application fees for consideration of all approvals, permits, certificates, and public hearings required under this Ordinance shall be established by separate resolution or Ordinance. Such fees shall be computed so as to recover all cost incurred by the City in reviewing and processing zoning-related requests, including advertising fees and shall be adopted and revised as necessary by the Council.”

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 rental use in Dale 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 Dale County, Alabama

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

Dale County scores 77/100 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 Dale County, Alabama?

Dale 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 Dale 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 Dale County?

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

Land in Dale County runs about $3,912 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Dale County?

Dale County gets about 56.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 16.4% of years.

How remote is Dale County?

A representative private-land location has about 21,619 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,522,993 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 Dale compares in Alabama

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