Bolthole Index

Jefferson County, Alabama

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Jefferson County, Alabama

54Index Score / 100
#66 of 67 in Alabama

Unincorporated Jefferson County, Alabama requires a county building permit from Development Services for new construction, alterations and repairs1. County zoning applies outside incorporated municipal boundaries, with uses and dimensions tied to the parcel's district2. Septic permits come from the Jefferson County Department of Health; the onsite-sewage construction permit must precede the building permit3.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for new construction, alterations and repairs in unincorporated areas1
Zoning
County zoning applies in unincorporated areas; cities may have different rules24
Septic permit
Jefferson County Department of Health, Community Environmental Protection Division5
Owner-builder exemption
Available with a signed affidavit and continued ownership after occupancy6
RV living
Allowed in qualifying R-5(A) subdivisions and R-5(B) parks; temporary use is allowed while a home is built789
Tiny homes
A code-compliant site-built tiny home is listed in the R-5(A) district10
Soils rated not limited for septic
24.1% for conventional drain fields; a parcel needs site evaluation113
County-road access
New access requires an application to Roads and Transportation12

Who to call

Building permits

Jefferson County Development Services

Building permits and inspections for unincorporated Jefferson County

205-325-5321

Jefferson County Courthouse, Suite B200, Birmingham, AL 35203

Online permits →

Zoning

Jefferson County Development Services - Zoning

Zoning, subdivision and site-plan review for unincorporated Jefferson County; reached through Development Services

Online permits →

Floodplain permits

Jefferson County Development Services - Floodplain Administrator

Floodplain development permits for unincorporated Jefferson County and the cities of Pinson, Graysville and Brighton

205-325-5321

Septic permits

Jefferson County Department of Health - Community Environmental Protection Division

Onsite sewage disposal (septic) permits for Jefferson County

205-930-1230

Roads & driveways

Jefferson County Roads & Transportation Department

Road maintenance and right-of-way questions on county roads in unincorporated Jefferson County

205-325-5141

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

Off-grid gear

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

These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.

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

Jefferson County requires a building permit for all new construction, alterations and repairs in unincorporated areas1. The county's building code applies in unincorporated areas and in municipalities that have not adopted and enforced their own building codes13. Development Services inspects permitted work at intervals during construction; it does not inspect existing property for code violations14. For an owner-built residence, the homeowner must apply for the permit, sign the state licensing-board affidavit and keep possession for at least one year after the certificate of occupancy6. Agricultural buildings may qualify for a state contractor-licensing exemption, but a residence inside the building does not15; that licensing exemption does not remove Jefferson County's permit or zoning requirements116. The county's rules apply to unincorporated Jefferson County. Inside Hoover17, Vestavia Hills18, Trussville19, Mountain Brook20, Hueytown21, Center Point22, Irondale23 and Leeds24, the city issues building permits. Septic permits for parcels in Jefferson County remain with the Jefferson County Department of Health25. Unlike most counties around it, Jefferson County requires a county building permit26.

Who is the Jefferson County building department, and how do you reach them?

Jefferson County Development Services is the building-permit office, at the Jefferson County Courthouse, Suite B200, Birmingham, AL 35203, and its main phone is 205-325-532127. Applicants may use ePermitJC for applications, payments, plan uploads, staff comments and inspection scheduling28. Inspection requests can also be made by calling 205-918-7762 or texting "Schedule" to 844-752-606827. Published Development Services fees include administrative and technology charges, but the county warns that fees can change, so verify the current calculation before applying29. The Floodplain Administrator also uses the Development Services phone number30. A proposed floodplain site must be reviewed, and a floodplain development permit may be required31.

Does Jefferson County have zoning?

Jefferson County zoning applies to unincorporated land outside incorporated municipal boundaries2. Proposed work must conform to the parcel's district before a building permit may issue16. Minimum dwelling sizes vary: R-1 requires 1,000 square feet, R-R requires 1,200 and E-1 requires 1,400; R-5(A) separately lists tiny homes32. R-1 requires 35-foot front and rear yards and 10-foot side yards33. Inside the county's cities, zoning is the city's own: Hoover34, Vestavia Hills35, Homewood36, Trussville37, Bessemer38, Mountain Brook39, Center Point40 and Leeds41 administer their own zoning, and Hueytown publishes its own zoning districts and map42. Septic permits for parcels inside Hoover43, Vestavia Hills44, Trussville45, Bessemer46, Mountain Brook47, Irondale48 and Leeds49 still come from the Jefferson County Department of Health.

What is the minimum lot size in Jefferson County?

Unincorporated Jefferson County has district-specific minimum lot areas: E-MF Estate Mini-Farm requires 2 acres, E-1 requires 1 acre for residential uses, E-2 requires 20,000 square feet and R-R requires 30,000 square feet5051525354. R-1 requires 15,000 square feet, reduced to 12,500 only where all plumbing drains connect to live sanitary sewer lines5556. R-2 requires 10,000 square feet and R-5(A) requires 7,5005758. R-6 allows 7,500 square feet or less for existing lots under its non-mobile-home dimensional rules, but new lot divisions require at least 7,500 square feet per parcel and 50 feet of lot width; mobile homes follow separate requirements59. Ask Development Services to confirm the parcel's district and dimensions before buying or dividing land60.

How do septic permits work in Jefferson County?

The Jefferson County Department of Health's Community Environmental Protection Division regulates, permits and inspects onsite sewage systems and repairs in Jefferson County2561. A homeowner submits an onsite sewage disposal permit application and plot plan; an environmental health specialist reviews the materials, visits the site and examines the soil3. The building permit follows only after the health department issues the onsite-sewage construction permit3. State rules require a local-health-department permit before installing or repairing an off-sewer system, and difficult soil conditions can require professional design62. Only 24.1% of Jefferson County soils are rated not limited for conventional drain fields; site evaluation determines what system a parcel can support11. If public sewer is available instead, Jefferson County Environmental Services requires payment of impact fees before issuing the connection permit63.

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

Jefferson County allows an RV as living quarters in a qualifying R-5(A) Mobile Home Subdivision or R-5(B) Mobile Home Park in its unincorporated zoning jurisdiction78. During construction of a single-family home on the same property, a camper, RV, mobile home or tiny home may serve as temporary housing for no more than one year, ending sooner when the home receives its certificate of occupancy9. Temporary housing must meet Development Services and health-department requirements and accessory-structure setbacks64. In R-5(A), a tiny home is a code-compliant, site-built detached dwelling of 400 square feet or less, excluding lofts10. Tiny homes are also a listed use in R-5(B) Mobile Home Park districts65. These provisions do not establish permanent RV or tiny-home occupancy in every district; ask Development Services to confirm the parcel's zoning and proposed use6660.

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

  1. Ask Development Services to identify the parcel's zoning district, allowed use, minimum dwelling size and setbacks663233.
  2. Determine whether the home will use public sewer or septic; public-sewer connections need an Environmental Services impact-fee permit, while septic projects start with the county health department63.
  3. For septic, submit the application and plot plan and complete the health department's site and soil review before expecting a building permit3.
  4. Submit architectural plans, project valuation, applicable surety and erosion-control materials, and wastewater documentation through ePermitJC28.
  5. Apply to Roads and Transportation for any new connection to a county-maintained road, including location, width, drainage, sight-distance and surface details, and provide gravel for the first 50 feet of a driveway onto a county-maintained road1267.
  6. Verify current fees, pay applicable charges and complete required inspections2914.

What to check before you buy land in Jefferson County

Before buying Jefferson County land for a septic-served home, arrange site evaluation: only 24.1% of soils are rated not limited for conventional drain fields, which does not mean septic is impossible elsewhere113. Ask the Floodplain Administrator whether a floodplain development permit applies31. New access to county-maintained roads requires a Roads and Transportation application; state-highway turnouts require an ALDOT permit1268. We could not confirm a general private-well permit rule; ask the Jefferson County Department of Health about the proposed water supply69.

Watch-outs

  • Jefferson County's RV and tiny-home provisions are district-specific, not permission for permanent occupancy on every unincorporated parcel710.
  • Jefferson County's R-1 sewer-connected lot-size reduction requires every plumbing drain to connect to live sanitary sewer; sewer availability alone does not satisfy that condition55.
  • Septic and building permits are handled by two different agencies with two different phone lines: the Jefferson County Department of Health for septic, Development Services for the building permit; call the right one at each step526.

Sources

  1. ePermit | Jefferson County, AL, quoted and re-checked
  2. Jefferson County Zoning Regulations — Adopted October 9, 2025, quoted and re-checked
  3. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  4. Development Services | Jefferson County, AL, quoted and re-checked
  5. Jefferson County Department of Health (2026 county census)
  6. Residential Constructions Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  7. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  8. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  9. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  10. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  11. 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
  12. Jefferson County Subdivision & Construction Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  13. Building Code of Jefferson County, Alabama, 2018, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  15. Alabama Administrative Code, Home Builders Licensure Board Rules and Regulations (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Development Services | Jefferson County, AL, quoted and re-checked
  17. Hoover: Septic & Sewer Information (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  18. Vestavia Hills: FAQs: Permits & Licenses (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  19. Trussville: Licenses & Permits - City of Trussville (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Mountain Brook: Mountain Brook Code § 109-2, Building and fire safety systems permit fees (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  21. Hueytown: Building & Zoning Department (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Center Point: Inspection Services — adopted building-code provisions (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  23. Irondale: Inspections (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  24. Leeds: official source (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  26. ePermit | Jefferson County, AL (2026 county census)
  27. Jefferson County Development Services (jccal.org)
  28. ePermit, quoted and re-checked
  29. Consolidated Fee Schedule — Department of Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  30. Jefferson County Development Services - Floodplain Administrator (jccal.org)
  31. Floodplain Management, quoted and re-checked
  32. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  33. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  34. Hoover: Zoning Process (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  35. Vestavia Hills: Planning & Zoning (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  36. Homewood: Homewood Code, Appendix A, Article IV, Sec. FF, Permitted uses for non-residential districts (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  37. Trussville: Trussville Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Sec. 1.0 A-1 Agriculture district (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  38. Bessemer: Code of Ordinance (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  39. Mountain Brook: Mountain Brook Code § 129-34, Residence A District dimensional requirements (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  40. Center Point: official source (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  41. Leeds: City of Leeds Zoning Ordinance (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  42. Hueytown: Building & Zoning Department (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  43. Hoover: Septic & Sewer Information (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  44. Vestavia Hills: FAQs: Permits & Licenses (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  45. Trussville: Soil and Onsite Sewage - Alabama Department of Public Health (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  46. Bessemer: Environmental Health Division (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  47. Mountain Brook: Jefferson County Department of Health, Onsite Sewage Disposal (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  48. Irondale: Soil and Onsite Sewage (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  49. Leeds: Leeds Development Services FAQs (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  50. lawlib.jccal.org, quoted and re-checked
  51. lawlib.jccal.org, quoted and re-checked
  52. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  53. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  54. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  55. lawlib.jccal.org, quoted and re-checked
  56. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  57. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  58. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  59. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  60. Jefferson County Development Services - Zoning (jccal.org)
  61. Onsite Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  62. Onsite Sewage Disposal (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  63. Residential Constructions Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  64. ZONING RESOLUTION, quoted and re-checked
  65. Zoning Resolution of Jefferson County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  66. Regulations & Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  67. Residential Constructions Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  68. ALDOT Permit Manual (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  69. Jefferson County Department of Health - Community Environmental Protection Division (jcdh.org)

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

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Jefferson County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleJefferson CountyShelby CountyWalker CountySt. Clair CountyBlount CountyCullman CountyBibb County
Building permitRequiredRequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot required
County zoningYesYesNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsJCDHCounty Health Dept. Env. OfficeCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept. Env. ServicesCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Jefferson County in Alabama

54
County map
Jefferson County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score

How Jefferson County scores

Seclusion27100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency69100% ev.
Admin Boringness48100% ev.
Durability62100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost77100% 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 →

$220kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$6,943Land / acre
56.4"Annual rain
6.1% of yrsSevere drought
13.9 / yr (+12.3)Mid-century 100°F days
16.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.96" (+9.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.37×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,925Home insurance / yr
1.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.79%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
172,673People within 30 min
3,502,354People within 2 hr
350,129Radius comparison (15 mi)
596.4People / sq mi
0%Federal land
58.6%Land at 15% slope or less
24.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
162,539 acWorkable land screen
85.4%Wooded land
52.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62.7°FAvg temp

Scout Jefferson County

Camp here before you commitBook a few nights nearby on Hipcamp →Already own land here?Earn money hosting campers — get $100 when you become a Hipcamp host →

Some links are affiliate or referral links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Search live inventory elsewhere, then cost and vet each candidate here. No copied listings, account, or paid data feed.

View your full hunt →
ZillowLand & lotsRealtor.comLand listingsLandSearchRural & vacant land

Each button opens a current land search for Jefferson County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.

Working estimate

—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—

A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.

Cities and towns in Jefferson 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: Adamsville · Birmingham · Brighton · Town of Brookside · Town of Cardiff · Fairfield · Graysville · Kimberly · Lipscomb · Town of Maytown · Morris · Town of Mulga · Town of North Johns · Pinson · Town of Sylvan Springs · Town of Trafford · Warrior · Town of West Jefferson

Answers from the rulebook for Jefferson County

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

Jefferson County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New construction, alterations, and repairs in unincorporated Jefferson County.

    • A Jefferson County permit is required for all new construction, alterations, and repairs in unincorporated areas.
    • Sanitary sewer or septic tank approval is required for all new construction and mobile home placements.
    • An ESC permit is required for land-disturbing activity, except that erosion-control requirements are incorporated into the listed Building Combo permits and no separate erosion-control permit is needed for those listed permits.
    • The Building Division page states the no-separate-ESC-permit change is effective August 26, 2022.
    • Separate permits remain required for low voltage, moving a structure, miscellaneous construction, and demolition.
    “A permit from Jefferson County is required for all new construction, alterations, and repairs in unincorporated areas.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Residential construction where the homeowner acts as the builder.

    • The homeowner must apply for the permit and sign an affidavit from the State of Alabama Homebuilders Licensure Board.
    • The owner-builder must maintain possession of the property for at least one year after issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.

    minimum owner possession period: >= 1 year (after issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy)

    “A homeowner can apply for the permit and act as the builder. To do this the homeowner must sign an affidavit from the State of Alabama Homebuilders Licensure Board stating that the owner/builder must maintain possession of the property for at least One Year after the date of the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Jefferson County Building Code of Jefferson County, Alabama, 2018.

    • Applies in all unincorporated areas and in municipalities that have not adopted and are not enforcing municipal building codes.
    • Referenced codes include the 2018 International Residential Code, State Energy Code, 2018 International Mechanical, Fuel Gas, and Plumbing Codes, and 2017 National Electrical Code.
    “Provisions in the following chapters and sections shall constitute and be known and may be cited as the "Building Code of Jefferson County, Alabama, 2018," hereinafter referred to as "this Code."”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction or work for which a Jefferson County building permit is required.

    • Inspections occur at various intervals.
    • The department does not inspect existing properties for code violations.
    • Failed or incomplete inspections have a $55 fee; after-hours inspections cost $300 for the first four hours and $75 for each additional hour.

    failed or incomplete inspection fee: 55 USD (each occurrence) · after-hours inspection fee: 300 USD (first four hours; $75 for each additional hour)

    “The Jefferson County Development Services Department inspects all construction or work for which a permit is required at various intervals.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Jefferson County zoning regulation in unincorporated areas.

    • The county zoning resolution regulates land use, building size, yards, districts, and related development standards.
    • A building permit may not be issued until the proposed work is certified as conforming to the Zoning Resolution.
    • Incorporated municipalities may administer their own zoning rules.
    “Guides planning and zoning for unincorporated Jefferson County”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Jefferson County, aggregating the county zoning system for unincorporated areas and municipal zoning within incorporated city limits.

    • Jefferson County Development Services guides planning and zoning for unincorporated Jefferson County.
    • Within city limits, the county directs residents to contact the city's zoning department; municipal rules therefore may differ from the county resolution.
    • The county resolution took effect immediately upon adoption by the Jefferson County Commission, and the current document lists October 9, 2025 among its amendment dates.
    “If you live within city limits, contact your city's zoning department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning regulation in unincorporated Jefferson County, Alabama.
      “Unincorporated Area: Any land in Jefferson County not lying within the boundaries of a duly incorporated municipality. [...] For the purpose of this Resolution, the County of Jefferson, Alabama, is hereby divided into the following zoning districts:”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Published zoning districts and zoning regulations for unincorporated Jefferson County.

    • The official regulations page publishes the current zoning-regulations PDF adopted October 9, 2025.
    • District-specific use and dimensional requirements vary by zoning district.
    “Jefferson County Zoning Regulations - Adopted by the County Commission on October 9, 2025 (PDF)”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential dwelling minimum floor areas under the Jefferson County Zoning Resolution in unincorporated areas.

    • The minimum varies by zoning district and dwelling type.
    • Fully finished basements may count toward minimum square-footage requirements where the district provision says so.
    • The R-5(A) district expressly lists a 400-square-foot minimum floor area and separately lists Tiny Homes.
    • Other districts have larger minimums, including 1,000 square feet in R-1, 1,200 square feet in R-R, and 1,400 square feet in E-1.

    R-5(A) minimum floor area: 400 square feet · R-1 minimum floor area: 1000 square feet (fully finished basements may count) · R-R minimum floor area: 1200 square feet (fully finished basements may count) · E-1 minimum floor area: 1400 square feet (fully finished basements may count)

    “Minimum Floor Area: 1,200 square feet Fully finished basements may count toward minimum square footage requirements.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Permitted uses in the E-1 Estate District.

    • Accessory buildings are excepted from the stated area and dimensional regulations.
    • The section includes a special-use-permit category for places of worship, residential bed and breakfast facilities, and fire stations.
    • Fully finished basements may count toward minimum square footage requirements, but this does not alter the lot-area minimum.
    • The section is marked AMENDED 10/9/2025.

    minimum lot area: 1 acre (43,560 square feet equivalent)

    “a. Minimum Lot Area: 1 acre (43,560 square feet)”
    9 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Permitted uses in the E-MF Estate Mini-Farm District.
      “a. Minimum Lot Area: 2 acres (87,120 square feet)”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential uses in the E-1 Estate District in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “602.04 Area and Dimensional Regulations. In all the above permitted uses, with the exception of accessory buildings, the area and dimensional regulations set forth below shall be observed: a. Minimum Lot Area: 1 acre (43,560 square feet)”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential uses in the E-2 Estate District in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “603.02 Area and Dimensional Regulations. In all the above permitted uses with the exception of accessory building, the area and dimensional regulations set forth below shall be observed: a. Minimum Lot Area: 20,000 square feet”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential uses in the R-R Rural Residential District in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “604.04 Area and Dimensional Requirements. In all the above permitted uses, with the exception of accessory buildings, the area and dimensional regulations set forth below shall be observed: a. Minimum Lot Area: 30,000 square feet”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential uses in the R-1 Single Family District in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “a. Minimum Lot Area: 15,000 square feet, or 12,500 square feet for lots on which all plumbing drains are connected to and served by live sanitary sewer lines”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential uses in the R-2 Single Family District in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “607.04 Area and Dimensional Regulations. In all the above permitted uses, with the exception of accessory buildings, the area and dimensional regulations set forth below shall be observed: a. Minimum Lot Area: 10,000 square feet”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Mobile home subdivisions in the R-5(A) Mobile Home Subdivision District in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “608.03 Area and Dimensional Regulations. In all of the above permitted uses with the exception of accessory buildings, the area and dimensional regulations set forth below shall be observed: a. Minimum Lot Area: 7,500 square feet”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Non-mobile-home uses in the R-6 Single Family District in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “a. Minimum Lot Area: 7,500 square feet (or less)* *Any new or future division of land shall have a minimum of 7,500 square feet per parcel or lot.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Permitted uses in the R-1 Single Family District.
      “a. Minimum Lot Area: 15,000 square feet, or 12,500 square feet for lots on which all plumbing drains are connected to and served by live sanitary sewer lines”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Building yards and setbacks under the Jefferson County Zoning Resolution in unincorporated areas.

    • Setbacks vary by zoning district and use.
    • Where a required yard abuts a street or roadway with a dedicated right-of-way of 40 feet or more, the setback is the front-yard setback required by the district, measured from the property/right-of-way line.
    • Where the dedicated right-of-way is less than 40 feet, or there is no dedicated right-of-way, the setback is at least 25 feet plus the district front-yard setback, measured from the roadway centerline.
    • Corner lots must observe the front-yard setback on all streets and apply side-setback requirements along opposing property lines.
    • Accessory buildings generally must be at least five feet from side and rear property lines, subject to stated district exceptions.

    R-1 front yard: 35 feet · R-1 rear yard: 35 feet · R-1 side yard: 10 feet · R-5(A) front yard: 35 feet · R-5(A) rear yard: 35 feet · R-5(A) side yard: 8 feet · roadway additional setback: >= 25 feet (plus the district front-yard setback when the dedicated right-of-way is less than 40 feet or absent)

    “Minimum Yard Requirements: Front: 35 feet Rear: 35 feet Side: 10 feet”
  • Living in an RVAllowed (with conditions)

    Residential RV occupancy as a living facility in an R-5(A) Mobile Home Subdivision District in unincorporated Jefferson County.

    • The RV must be located within an R-5(A) Mobile Home Subdivision.
    • Each lot may contain either one mobile home, a tiny home, and/or a recreational vehicle used as living facilities.
    • The district permits only a Mobile Home Subdivision, customary accessory buildings subject to the stated restrictions, home occupations, home daycare, signs under Article 14, 20% usable common space and conservation easements including drainage retention and detention ponds, and tiny homes.
    • Individual mobile home lots must include storm shelters and/or the subdivision must provide a community shelter sized for the entire subdivision and constructed under the current adopted building codes.
    • Minimum lot area is 7,500 square feet; minimum lot width is 50 feet; minimum yards are 35 feet front, 35 feet rear, and 8 feet side; minimum floor area is 400 square feet; setbacks are measured under Article 11, Sections 1101 through 1103.
    • The R-5(A) provisions were adopted or amended on October 9, 2025 as stated in the resolution.

    minimum lot area: >= 7500 square feet · minimum lot width: >= 50 feet · front yard: >= 35 feet · rear yard: >= 35 feet · side yard: >= 8 feet · minimum floor area: >= 400 square feet · usable common space: >= 20 percent (Conservation easements include drainage retention and detention ponds subject to conservation and natural areas.)

    “Mobile Home Subdivision: A subdivision, each lot shall be allowed to contain either one mobile home, a tiny home, and/or a recreational vehicle used as living facilities. ADOPTED 10/9/2025”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Placement and occupancy of a camper or recreational vehicle as temporary housing during construction of a single-family dwelling on the same lot or tract in the Jefferson County zoning jurisdiction.
      “For a period not to exceed one (1) year, a camper, recreational vehicle, mobile home, or tiny home shall be allowed to be placed on a property during construction of a single-family dwelling on the same lot or tract. Any temporary housing structure shall satisfy all requirements of the Department of Development Services regarding adopted building, gas, and electrical codes, and all the requirements of the Jefferson County Department of Health. Any temporary housing shall conform to building setbacks for accessory structures and shall cease to be occupied after one (1) year, or after the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the single family dwelling on the property. ADOPTED 10/9/2025”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Residential RV occupancy as a living facility in an R-5(B) Mobile Home Park District in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “Mobile Home Park: An area containing one or more mobile homes, tiny homes, and/or recreational vehicles (including travel trailers) used as living facilities, or an area containing one or more spaces designed or intended for parking of mobile homes and /or recreational vehicles (including travel trailers) to be used as living facilities. AMENDED 7/12/2011 & 10/9/2025”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Placement and occupancy of a camper or recreational vehicle on a lot or tract during construction of a single-family dwelling in unincorporated Jefferson County.
      “For a period not to exceed one (1) year, a camper, recreational vehicle, mobile home, or tiny home shall be allowed to be placed on a property during construction of a single-family dwelling on the same lot or tract. Any temporary housing structure shall satisfy all requirements of the Department of Development Services regarding adopted building, gas, and electrical codes, and all the requirements of the Jefferson County Department of Health.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A site-built single-family detached dwelling of 400 square feet or less, excluding lofts, in an R-5(A) Mobile Home Subdivision District.

    • The structure must comply with the adopted Building Code of Jefferson County, Alabama.
    • The use is listed in the R-5(A) Mobile Home Subdivision District and is not a countywide authorization for all zoning districts.
    • Individual mobile home lots must include storm shelters, or a community shelter sized for the entire subdivision must be provided and constructed under the current adopted building code.
    • The resolution states the tiny-home provision was amended October 9, 2025.

    maximum floor area: <= 400 square feet (excluding lofts)

    “Tiny Home: A site-built single family detached dwelling that is 400 square feet or less, excluding lofts, that complies with the requirements of the adopted Building Code of Jefferson County, Alabama.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Tiny-home occupancy in an R-5(B) Mobile Home Park District.
      “Within an R-5(B) Mobile Home Park District, a building or land shall be used only for the following purposes: [...] e. Tiny Homes [...] f. Individual mobile home lots shall include storm shelters and/or a community shelter sized for the entire subdivision shall be provided and constructed in accordance with the current adopted building code(s).”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage disposal regulation, permitting, and inspection in Jefferson County.

    • The Jefferson County Department of Health regulates and inspects onsite systems and repairs.
    • This claim identifies the administering health district; it does not establish that every septic rule is county-government administered.
    “The Jefferson County Department of Health is a leader in promoting public health through the use of onsite sewage disposal by:”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New onsite sewage disposal systems for residential construction in Jefferson County.

    • A homeowner submits an onsite sewage disposal permit application and plot plan.
    • An Environmental Health Specialist reviews the submission, visits the site, and performs a soils examination.
    • The building permit is issued after the health department issues the onsite sewage construction permit.
    “After the Jefferson County Department of Health issues a permit to construct an onsite sewage disposal system, a building permit is issued.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    New and improperly functioning onsite sewage disposal systems in Jefferson County.

    • The health department regulates and inspects new onsite systems and investigates and inspects repairs to improperly functioning systems.
    “Onsite Regulations - Regulating and inspecting new onsite systems”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Residential new construction and additions requiring wastewater service.

    • For onsite disposal, a Jefferson County Health Department permit is required.
    • For public sewer, impact fees must be paid to obtain a permit from Jefferson County Environmental Services.
    • The residential checklist states that health-department or sewer-impact requirements may vary for alteration and miscellaneous permits.
    “Impact Fees must be paid to obtain a permit from Jefferson County Environmental Services to connect to public sewer.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    All new access connections to Jefferson County streets or roads, including roads within municipalities that are maintained by Jefferson County.

    • An access application must be made to the Jefferson County Department of Roads and Transportation.
    • The application must include the proposed location, width, drainage structure, traffic condition, site distance, and surfacing.
    • The Director of Roads and Transportation or County Engineer may field-check each new access site to determine whether the location is acceptable.
    • Residential entrances must provide maximum sight distances and minimum grades; be 10 to 20 feet wide at the right-of-way line; place curb openings at least 5 feet from the nearest edge of a street drainage ditch; and be 50 feet from the corner radius.
    • Commercial and industrial entrances must comply with Section 3.40 site-plan requirements; be 24 to 35 feet wide at the right-of-way line; have an opening radius of 15 to 25 feet; and may require a larger radius for truck traffic.
    • For commercial and industrial sites, entrances on property fronting two or more streets may be allowed on each street under the stated criteria; openings must be 150 feet apart or as approved by the Director or County Engineer; openings must be 50 feet from the corner radius; and pavement widening may be required at the developer's expense.
    • All construction within the right-of-way of Jefferson County roadways must comply with the regulations' construction and design requirements.

    residential entrance width: >= 10 feet · residential entrance width: <= 20 feet · residential curb opening distance from drainage ditch: >= 5 feet · residential curb opening distance from corner radius: 50 feet · commercial or industrial entrance width: >= 24 feet · commercial or industrial entrance width: <= 35 feet · commercial or industrial opening radius: 15-25 feet (Larger radius may be required for truck traffic.) · commercial or industrial distance between openings: 150 feet (Or as approved by the Director of Roads and Transportation/County Engineer.) · commercial or industrial distance from corner radius: 50 feet

    “Application for all new accesses to Jefferson County streets/roads [...] that are maintained by Jefferson County shall be made to the Department of Roads and Transportation.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Residential new construction accessing a county-maintained road.
      “Gravel must be provided within the first 50 feet of the construction driveway accessing a county-maintained road.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Construction in floodplains in unincorporated Jefferson County.

    • Projects must be reviewed to determine whether the site is located within a floodplain.
    • A Floodplain Development Permit may be required if the site is determined to be in a floodplain.
    • The county also administers floodplain rules for Pinson, Graysville, and Brighton.
    “Construction occurring within a floodplain in unincorporated Jefferson County is regulated by Ordinance #1827. Proposed projects must be reviewed by the Department of Development Services to determine if the site is located within a floodplain. If the project site is determined to be located within a floodplain, a Floodplain Development Permit may be required.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Development Services review and permitting applications in Jefferson County, including building permits administered by the county.

    • The fee ordinance states that fees apply to applications and permits submitted to Development Services, or to cities and towns the county has agreements to serve.
    • No applications are processed until all applicable fees have been paid.
    • The county's Building Division warns that codes, forms, and fees are subject to change and directs applicants to verify current official fee calculations.
    • The consolidated fee schedule was approved by the Jefferson County Commission on November 5, 2020.
    • All Building Division permits are subject to Administrative and Technology fees.
    • The schedule contains exceptions identified in Ordinance No. 29, Ordinance 53, Ordinance 65, or Ordinance 681, and Building Division permits are subject to Alabama Department of Finance Division of Construction Management administrative-code craft-training fees.

    administrative processing fee: 50 USD (Applies to permits/applications available via Accela; subject to the county's current-fee verification notice.) · technology fee: 10 USD (Applies to permits/applications available via Accela; subject to the county's current-fee verification notice.) · residential single-family building combo permit valuation up to and including $5,000: 50 USD (New construction/addition/alteration; schedule amount, not independently confirmed as current.) · residential single-family building combo permit valuation over $5,000: per 9 USD per thousand or fraction thereof (New construction/addition/alteration; schedule amount, not independently confirmed as current.)

    “Residential Single-Family Building Combo Permit (new construction/addition/alteration) Valuation up to and including $5,000.00, the fee shall be $50.00 Valuation over $5,000.00, the fee shall be $9.00 per thousand or fraction thereof”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Development Services permitting and application process.

    • Applications may be submitted online through ePermitJC/Accela.
    • Payments, plan uploads, staff comments, and inspection scheduling are available online.
    • PDF plan uploads are required for applicable applications.
    • Residential construction requires architectural plans, cost valuation, applicable surety/BMP materials, and either health-department septic documentation or a sewer-impact permit.
    “Apply for a permit or application (Environmental Services or Development Services)”

Alabama rules that apply here

  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

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

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

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

    “An updated list of subcontractors shall be furnished by the builder before the issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the municipality.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

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

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

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

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

    Manufactured homes used as residences in Alabama, subject to the definition and utility conditions stated by the Alabama Department of Revenue.

    • The structure must meet the source's manufactured-home definition.
    • It must be connected to required utilities, including plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems.
    • The source states that a manufactured home may be used as a place of residence by the owner, lessee, or assigns.
    • Local land-use, zoning, septic, building, installation, and inspection requirements are not resolved by this claim.

    transport-mode width: >= 8 body feet or more (The alternative on-site threshold is 320 square feet or more when erected on site.) · transport-mode length: >= 40 body feet or more (The alternative on-site threshold is 320 square feet or more when erected on site.) · on-site area: >= 320 square feet or more (Applies when erected on site.) · construction: permanent chassis · required utilities: plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems

    “It may be used as a place of residence, business, profession, trade, or for any other purpose, by the owner, lessee, or assigns and may consist of one or more units that can be attached or joined together.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Occupancy of a qualifying manufactured home as a residence in Alabama.
      “It may be used as a place of residence, business, profession, trade, or for any other purpose, by the owner, lessee, or assigns and may consist of one or more units that can be attached or joined together. A manufactured home bears a HUD Seal affixed to the rear of the home. (Section 32-20-2)”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Manufactured homes meeting Alabama's statutory definition and connected to required utilities; this establishes state recognition of residential use but does not resolve local land-use or zoning requirements.
      “It may be used as a place of residence, business, profession, trade, or for any other purpose, by the owner, lessee, or assigns and may consist of one or more units that can be attached or joined together.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage requirements in Jefferson County zoning districts.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Jefferson County zoning districts.

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 Jefferson County, Alabama

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

Jefferson County scores 54/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 56.4″/yr rainfall plus 85.4% wooded land. Watch-outs: about 172,673 people within a 30-minute drive and a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

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

Jefferson County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Jefferson County Department of Health (JCDH) - Community Environmental Protection. 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 Jefferson County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Jefferson County is allowed: Residential RV occupancy as a living facility in an R-5(A) Mobile Home Subdivision District in unincorporated Jefferson County. The RV must be located within an R-5(A) Mobile Home Subdivision. Each lot may contain either one mobile home, a tiny home, and/or a recreational vehicle used as living facilities. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Jefferson County, Alabama?

Land in Jefferson County runs about $6,943 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Jefferson County?

Jefferson County gets about 56.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 6.1% of years.

How remote is Jefferson County?

A representative private-land location has about 172,673 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,502,354 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 Jefferson compares in Alabama

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