Bolthole Index

Lawrence County, Alabama

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

69Index Score / 100
#44 of 67 in Alabama

Unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama requires no zoning, building or occupancy permit to build a home123. A floodplain development permit is still required in identified flood-hazard areas, and a free pipe/access permit applies to a new driveway within the county right-of-way45. Septic systems require separate approval from the Lawrence County Health Department6.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required in unincorporated Lawrence County; municipalities like Moulton require their own71
Zoning
None in unincorporated Lawrence County; rules vary inside municipalities, and Moulton has zoning38
Occupancy permit
Not required in unincorporated Lawrence County2
Septic permits
Lawrence County Health Department, Environmental Office, under Alabama's statewide onsite sewage program69
RV / tiny home living
No county zoning restriction in unincorporated areas; septic and other state requirements still apply1011
Owner-builder
Available for an owner-supervised one-family or two-family home intended for the owner's own use, subject to state licensing conditions12
Driveway / pipe permit
Free pipe/access permit required from the County Engineer's office for any new access onto a county right-of-way5
Subdivision plat
Required to divide land within the county's subdivision jurisdiction, with an exemption for roads or buildings on land used for agriculture1314

Who to call

Building permits

Lawrence County Engineer / Road Department

Confirms unincorporated Lawrence County requires no zoning, building or occupancy permit; also issues the free pipe/access permit for new driveways onto county right-of-way, and the county's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance names the County Engineer as Floodplain Administrator

(256) 256-2478

P.O. Box 275, Moulton, Alabama 35650

Floodplain permits

Lawrence County Engineer (Floodplain Administrator)

Administers the county's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and issues floodplain development permits for identified special flood hazard areas

Septic permits

Lawrence County Health Department, Environmental Office

Onsite sewage (septic tank, grease trap, holding tank) applications and permits for Lawrence County under Alabama's statewide onsite sewage program

(256) 974-8849

13299 Alabama Highway 157, Moulton, Alabama 35650

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

Off-grid gear

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

No. Unincorporated Lawrence County requires no building, zoning or occupancy permit for a home123. Alabama allows counties to adopt building codes for unincorporated areas, but Lawrence County does not operate a county building-permit program157. Beginning January 1, 2027, residential builders must follow the applicable Alabama Residential Building Code or an applicable local residential code, while local enforcement belongs to jurisdictions with permitting and inspection programs16. The county process still requires a floodplain development permit before work in an identified flood-hazard area and a pipe/access permit for new access within the county right-of-way17. Municipal rules differ; Moulton requires a building permit for construction, alteration or a project costing more than $500 and uses the 2018 International Building Codes18.

Who handles permits in Lawrence County, and how do you reach them?

There is no county building department to call, because unincorporated Lawrence County doesn't run a building-permit program7. The office that confirms that, and issues the county's two permits that do apply, is the County Engineer, who also runs the Road Department out of P.O. Box 275, Moulton, Alabama 35650, at (256) 256-247819. That office issues the free pipe/access permit for a new driveway onto a county right-of-way, and inspects the access location to size the pipe needed19. The county's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance names the same County Engineer as Floodplain Administrator, responsible for reviewing floodplain development permit applications20. For septic, the office is the Lawrence County Health Department's Environmental Office, at 13299 Alabama Highway 157, Moulton, Alabama 35650, reachable at (256) 974-884921. If your land is inside Moulton's city limits, permits instead run through the City of Moulton's own Building Department, not the county18.

Does Lawrence County have zoning?

Unincorporated Lawrence County has no zoning ordinance, while zoning varies inside municipalities; Moulton, for example, regulates land through its own zoning ordinance38. On unincorporated land, county zoning sets no minimum dwelling size, building-height limit or restriction on RVs, tiny homes, manufactured homes or accessory dwellings10. That does not erase subdivision, floodplain, septic or state manufactured-housing rules322. Dividing land within the county's subdivision jurisdiction requires County Commission plat approval unless a stated exception applies; roads or buildings on private agricultural property are excluded from the subdivision definition131423. Proposed subdivision plats must show building setback lines, and Health Department rules determine minimum lot size where public water or sewer is not provided2425. Ask the relevant municipality about any parcel inside municipal limits because the unincorporated-county answer does not carry across those boundaries8.

How do septic permits work in Lawrence County?

Every new or repaired septic system in Lawrence County that isn't connected to public sewer needs a permit from the Lawrence County Health Department before construction begins26. The Health Department's Environmental Office issues onsite sewage, septic tank, grease trap and holding tank permits as part of Alabama's statewide onsite sewage program, which the state Department of Public Health coordinates and enforces219. Soils matter here: only 21.4% of Lawrence County's land is free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so budget for a site evaluation and soil testing early, and know that only a registered engineer may design a system where soil percolation runs slower than 60 minutes or a shallow limiting zone exists2728. Construction of the home itself may begin only after the Permit to Install is issued, and the finished system needs an inspection and Approval for Use before you occupy the home11. For unincorporated land divided under the county's subdivision rules, the minimum lot size where public water or sewer isn't available is set by the Health Department's own regulations rather than the county's, so confirm those numbers with the same office issuing your septic permit25. Do not cover any part of the installation or use the system until the Lawrence County Health Department has had the chance to inspect it and has issued an Approval for Use; covered work may have to be uncovered at the Health Department's direction29.

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

Unincorporated Lawrence County zoning does not restrict RV or tiny-home occupancy and sets no county minimum dwelling size10. Alabama nevertheless classifies a park model as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or seasonal use—not as a permanent dwelling30. A dwelling still needs an approved onsite sewage system before occupancy when public sewer is unavailable or impractical11. A manufactured home is not barred by county zoning, but occupancy is unlawful unless the home complies with Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission standards and rules1022. A qualifying manufactured home used as a residence must bear a HUD Seal, connect to the required utilities and be installed by an Alabama-certified installer31. Municipal rules can change the answer, and we could not confirm a short-term-rental rule for unincorporated land; ask the relevant municipality or the County Engineer before relying on either use819.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated; projects inside a municipality go to that municipality, and Moulton has its own building and zoning rules818.
  2. Check the flood map before site work. Development in an identified flood-hazard area requires a permit from the County Engineer before work begins2017.
  3. Order the septic site and soil evaluation, then obtain the Health Department's Permit to Install before septic construction2126.
  4. Confirm subdivision approval if the parcel was split from a larger tract; the agricultural exclusion is narrow and does not waive other rules1314.
  5. Obtain the free pipe/access permit before creating access within a county right-of-way17.
  6. Build without a county building permit on unincorporated land1. An owner-builder exemption is available when the owner personally supervises construction of a one-family or two-family residence for the owner's own use and does not offer it for sale; subcontracted work above $10,000 requires a licensed subcontractor12.

What to check before you buy land in Lawrence County

Confirm the parcel's jurisdiction first because municipal zoning varies, while the no-zoning answer applies only to unincorporated Lawrence County8. Check soils early: only 21.4% of the county's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so the Health Department's site review can materially affect the buildable area and system cost2726. Check flood maps before buying; development in an identified flood-hazard area needs a permit, and a new or substantially improved structure in specified mapped zones with base-flood data must place its lowest floor at least one foot above base flood elevation4. Confirm legal road access and whether a new entrance crosses county right-of-way, which triggers the pipe/access permit5. If the tract was recently divided, verify subdivision approval and the recorded setback lines1324. We could not confirm whether an individual private well needs another local permit, so ask the Health Department before relying on a well plan21.

Watch-outs

  • Lawrence County confirms that no building permit is required on unincorporated land, but we could not confirm a separate building-inspection rule or a short-term-rental rule; ask the County Engineer before relying on either assumption119.
  • Land inside the City of Moulton follows an entirely different rulebook: its own building permit (required over $500), building code, and zoning ordinance apply there, not the county's open rules1832.

Sources

  1. Zoning/Permits — Unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  2. Zoning/Permits — Unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  3. Zoning/Permits letter — Unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  4. 2009 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, Revised 6/2018, quoted and re-checked
  5. Zoning/Permits — Unincorporated Lawrence County, quoted and re-checked
  6. Services | Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) (2026 county census)
  7. Zoning/Permits — Unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama (2026 county census)
  8. Zoning/Permits letter — Unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  9. Services | Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), quoted and re-checked
  10. Alabama law on county zoning and building authority
  11. Septic Tank Systems (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Exemptions — Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board, quoted and re-checked
  13. 2007 Subdivision Regulations (Rev. 5-15-26), quoted and re-checked
  14. 2007 Subdivision Regulations (Rev. 5-15-26), quoted and re-checked
  15. Alabama County Commissioners Handbook, 13th Edition (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Home Builders Licensure Law, Effective October 1, 2025 (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Zoning/Permits — Unincorporated Lawrence County, quoted and re-checked
  18. License/Building/Permits — City of Moulton, quoted and re-checked
  19. Lawrence County Engineer / Road Department (lawrencecountyal.org)
  20. Lawrence County Engineer (Floodplain Administrator) (lawrencecountyal.org)
  21. Lawrence County Health Department, Environmental Office (alabamapublichealth.gov)
  22. Manufactured Housing Chapter 535-X-13, quoted and re-checked
  23. 2007 Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  24. 2007 Subdivision Regulations (Rev. 5-15-26), quoted and re-checked
  25. 2007 Subdivision Regulations (Rev. 5-15-26), quoted and re-checked
  26. Onsite Sewage Disposal | Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), quoted and re-checked
  27. 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
  28. Onsite Sewage Disposal (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Services | Lawrence County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  30. Chapter 535-X-11 Regulations for Manufactured Buildings (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. What are the requirements for titling a manufactured home? (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  32. Ordinances — City of Moulton, quoted and re-checked

Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Lawrence County has no countywide zoning.

RuleLawrence CountyWinston CountyMorgan CountyLimestone CountyFranklin CountyColbert CountyLauderdale County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Lawrence County in Alabama

69
County map
Lawrence County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score

How Lawrence County scores

Seclusion40100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency76100% ev.
Admin Boringness91100% ev.
Durability56100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost84100% 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 →

$231kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$4,865Land / acre
57.5"Annual rain
5.9% of yrsSevere drought
12.6 / yr (+11.4)Mid-century 100°F days
14.5 daysMid-century dry spell
2.73" (+8.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.42×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,858Home insurance / yr
1.4% / yrInsurance growth
0.51%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
44,556People within 30 min
3,033,241People within 2 hr
55,947Radius comparison (15 mi)
48.5People / sq mi
21.5%Federal land
81%Land at 15% slope or less
21.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
90,885 acWorkable land screen
54.3%Wooded land
57.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
60.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Lawrence County

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

Town of Courtland · Town of Hillsboro · Moulton · Town of North Courtland · Town of Town Creek

Answers from the rulebook for Lawrence County

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

Lawrence County rules

  • Building permitNot required

    Building permits for projects in unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama.

    • Projects within municipal limits require contacting the municipality and may be subject to municipal requirements.
    • Lawrence County has subdivision regulations and a flood plain ordinance.
    • A pipe/access permit may be required for a new access proposed within the county right-of-way; the county states that this permit has no fee.
    “There are no zoning, building or occupancy permits required in un-incorporated Lawrence County, Alabama.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Lawrence County: no county building permit is required, so there is no permit to be exempt from and you may build your own home. State licensing for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work may still apply.

    • Projects within municipal limits require contacting the municipality and may be subject to municipal requirements.
    • Lawrence County has subdivision regulations and a flood plain ordinance.
    “There are no zoning, building or occupancy permits required in un-incorporated Lawrence County, Alabama.”
  • Certificate of occupancyNot required

    Occupancy permits, including county occupancy permitting, for projects in unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama.

    • Projects within municipal limits require contacting the municipality and may be subject to municipal requirements.
    • A flood plain ordinance, subdivision regulations, and an applicable pipe/access permit remain separate county controls.
    “occupancy permits required in un-incorporated Lawrence County, Alabama.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Zoning in unincorporated Lawrence County, Alabama.

    • Projects located within municipal limits must be directed to the applicable municipality.
    • Lawrence County separately has subdivision regulations, a flood plain ordinance, and a pipe/access permit if applicable.
    “There are no zoning, building or occupancy permits required in un-incorporated Lawrence County, Alabama. You will need to contact a municipality for any project located within their municipal limits.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local-zoning status across Lawrence County, including unincorporated territory and incorporated municipalities.

    • Unincorporated Lawrence County has no zoning permits according to the County Engineer’s letter.
    • Projects within municipal limits must be reviewed by the applicable municipality.
    • The City of Moulton maintains a zoning ordinance regulating districts, height, yards, density, and uses of buildings, structures, and land.
    “An Ordinance, in Pursuance of the Authority Granted by Sections 11-52-70 to 11-52-84, Inclusive, 1975 Code of Alabama, To Provide for the Establishment of Districts within the Corporate Limits of the City of Moulton, Alabama: Regulating Within Such Districts the Height, Number of Stories, and Size of Yards and other Spaces, The Density of Population and the use of Buildings, Structures and Land; and Providing Methods of Administration of this Ordinance and Penalties for the Violation Thereof.”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Residential lots in subdivisions within Lawrence County's subdivision jurisdiction.

    • Where public water and/or sewer are not provided, the minimum lot size is determined by Health Department regulations.
    • The cited county regulation does not state the numeric minimum; the applicable Health Department rule must be consulted.

    minimum lot size: Determined by Health Department regulations where public water and/or sewer are not provided

    “The minimum lot size where public water and/ or sewer are not provided shall be determined by the regulations of the Health Department.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Proposed subdivision plats in Lawrence County's subdivision jurisdiction.

    • The regulation requires proposed minimum building setback lines to be shown on the proposed plat.
    • The cited provision does not state a numeric setback distance.

    building setback lines: Proposed minimum building setback lines must be included on the proposed plat

    “The Proposed Plat shall include the following: [...] (13) Proposed minimum building setback lines;”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Building height · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Living in an RV · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Tiny homes · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule

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

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Alabama counties lack broad, general land-use regulatory authority under general Alabama law.
    • Limited authority may arise through county-specific local laws, including examples identified by the handbook for Baldwin, Russell, Shelby, and Jefferson Counties.
    “Counties in Alabama do not have broad and general land use regulatory authority under general Alabama law, although several counties have created some form of planning and zoning authority by local law. However, as set out below, the Legislature has granted limited authority to county governing bodies to address certain special circumstances related to use of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the county.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage, septic tank, grease trap, and holding tank permitting in Lawrence County.

    • The Lawrence County Health Department provides the local application and permit service under Alabama's statewide onsite sewage program.
    • The state program establishes and enforces requirements for design, permitting, installation, approval, and use of onsite sewage systems.
    “The Lawrence County Health Department provides the following services to the public. [...] Onsite Sewage-Applications and Permits”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Construction or development of roads or buildings on private property used for agricultural purposes within Lawrence County's subdivision jurisdiction.

    • The property must be private property.
    • The roads or buildings must be used for agricultural purposes.
    • The exclusion is from the county's definition of subdivision; other applicable state, health, environmental, floodplain, or municipal requirements may still apply.
    • The regulation cites Code of Alabama 1975, § 11-24-1(a)(4) as authority for this exclusion.
    “EXCLUSIONS: A subdivision shall not include any of the following: a. The construction or development of roads or buildings on private property to be used for agricultural purposes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available — Construction or development of roads or buildings on private property used for agricultural purposes, for purposes of the Lawrence County subdivision regulations.
      “EXCLUSIONS: A subdivision shall not include any of the following: a. The construction or development of roads or buildings on private property to be used for agricultural purposes.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Development and division of land into subdivisions within Lawrence County's subdivision jurisdiction.

    • The regulations apply within the county's subdivision jurisdiction.
    • The County Commission reviews, approves, or disapproves plats and may inspect and enforce the regulations.
    • Unless waived by the Lawrence County Commission, county plat approval also applies within the territorial jurisdiction of a municipal planning commission, but county approval there is limited to plat approval and does not include enforcement.
    • The regulations become applicable after the county files a certified copy with the Probate Judge and after thirty days from filing.
    • No county street or road maintenance, utilities, or county services may be extended until the regulations are complied with and final approval is granted.
    • A permit to develop, proposed plat review, lot, and road fees apply.

    permit to develop fee: 25 USD per proposed subdivision · proposed plat review fee: 500 USD per submission of proposed plat · lot fee: 25 USD per lot, site, or unit · road fee: 0.25 USD per linear foot to be constructed and inspected

    “These regulations shall be applicable to the development of any subdivision within the county’s subdivision jurisdiction, and shall include, at a minimum, the minimum size of lots, the planning and construction of all public streets and roads, drainage structures, and proper placement of public utilities to be located in a subdivision.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    A new driveway or other access proposed within the Lawrence County right-of-way in unincorporated Lawrence County.

    • The pipe/access permit is required if applicable.
    • The county will inspect the access location and size the pipe needed.
    • The source does not state that the permit applies to access outside the county right-of-way.
    “is needed for a new access proposed within the county right-of-way.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Any development activity in identified Areas of Special Flood Hazard and community flood hazard areas within Lawrence County.

    • The ordinance applies to all Areas of Special Flood Hazard within Lawrence County.
    • The development permit must be obtained before commencement of development activities.
    • Where another ordinance conflicts or overlaps, the more stringent restriction prevails.
    • The ordinance is labeled 'Revised: 6/2018'; this revision label is not treated as an effective date.
    • Application materials may include duplicate, scaled plans showing elevations, structures, fill, stored materials or equipment, and drainage facilities.
    • For new construction and substantial improvements, as-built elevation or floodproofing certification is required after the lowest floor or floodproofing is completed.
    • Upon completion, a FEMA elevation certificate is required; floodproofed projects also require a FEMA floodproofing certificate.
    • In A1-30, AE, AH, and A areas with available base flood elevation data, the lowest floor must be at least one foot above the base flood elevation.
    • Non-residential structures may use floodproofing in lieu of elevation in A1-30, AE, or AH zones if the stated engineering certification and watertight requirements are met.

    minimum elevation above base flood elevation: >= 1 foot (Applies where base flood elevation data is available in A1-30, AE, AH, and A areas.)

    “Residential and Non-residential Structures - Where base flood elevation data is available, new construction and substantial improvement of any structure or manufactured home shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated no lower than one foot above the base flood elevation.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Residential and other projects in unincorporated Lawrence County, including county floodplain development and access within the county right-of-way.

    • No zoning, building, or occupancy permits are required in unincorporated Lawrence County according to the county engineer's letter.
    • A municipality must be contacted for projects within municipal limits.
    • A floodplain development permit is required before development in identified special flood hazard and community flood hazard areas.
    • A pipe/access permit is needed for a new access proposed within the county right-of-way, if applicable.
    “A Development Permit shall be required [...] PRIOR to the commencement of any development activities”

Alabama rules that apply here

  • 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”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Homeowners and businesses statewide that are not connected to a public sanitary sewer and intend to install a new onsite sewage system or repair an existing one.

    • A permit from the local health department must be obtained before installation or repair.
    • The application and plans must satisfy applicable state rules.
    • Construction may begin only after the Permit to Install is issued.
    • A registered professional may be required for soil testing and system design; only registered engineers may design systems where soil percolation exceeds 60 minutes or where a shallow limiting zone exists.

    soil percolation threshold for engineer-only design: > 60 minutes (The source also identifies shallow limiting zones as requiring a registered engineer.)

    “Alabama State Law requires homeowners and businesses not connected to a public sanitary sewer to obtain a permit from the local health department”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Homeowners and businesses in Lawrence County that are not connected to a public sanitary sewer and that install a new onsite sewage system or repair an existing system.
      “Before the construction of an onsite sewage disposal system, you must submit an Application for a Permit to Install an Onsite Sewage Disposal System”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Installation and use of onsite sewage systems in Lawrence County, including systems administered locally by the Lawrence County Health Department.

    • Except as allowed in Rule 420-3-1-.08, no part of an installation may be covered or used until the local health department is afforded an opportunity to inspect and necessary corrections are made.
    • An onsite sewage system may not be used until the local health department issues an Approval for Use; covered work may have to be uncovered at the local health department's direction.
    • Before Approval for Use, the installer must install or repair under a valid Permit to Install (Repair), agree on an inspection time and date with the local health department's Public Health Environmentalist, contact the environmentalist by 9 a.m. on the inspection date to verify readiness, notify the engineer when applicable, notify the local health department and professional of installation problems and stop until resolved, and submit Form CEP-5 within 3 business days of completion, or on the first regularly scheduled business day after an intervening holiday.
    • The local health department may allow a licensed installer to cover an installation or repair when resource constraints, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances prevent inspection within 30 minutes after the agreed inspection time.
    • The local health department may authorize a licensed installer to install or repair a Conventional OSS outside normal local health department business hours.
    • Rule 420-3-1-.08 was published December 30, 2022 and became effective February 13, 2023.

    inspection readiness contact deadline: 9 a.m. on the date of inspection · CEP-5 submission deadline: <= 3 business days after completion (If an intervening holiday occurs, submit on the local health department's first regularly scheduled business day following the holiday.) · inspection-delay exception: 30 minutes after agreed inspection time (Resource constraints, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances may permit the licensed installer to cover the installation without the local health department conducting the inspection within that period.)

    “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.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

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

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

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

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

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

    “The installation of a new well, or alteration of an existing well, for the purposes of extracting groundwater”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

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

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

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction, alteration, and related building-permit work within the City of Moulton, Lawrence County, Alabama.

    • The City of Moulton states that its Building Department handles inspections and permit issuance within the city.
    • A building permit is required for construction, alteration, or projects costing more than $500.
    • Painting and new flooring, and projects costing less than $500, are stated exemptions.
    • The City of Moulton states that the 2018 International Building Codes are used under Ordinance 2018-002.

    project cost threshold: > 500 USD (The page states projects costing less than $500 are exempt; construction or alteration also triggers the permit rule.)

    “The City of Moulton adopted and utilizes the 2018 International Building Codes as per Ordinance 2018-002.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Property within the corporate limits of the City of Moulton, Lawrence County, Alabama.

    • The ordinance establishes districts within the City of Moulton’s corporate limits.
    • The 2021 amendment states that it takes effect after adoption and publication as required by law.
    “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MOULTON, ALABAMA, BEING ORDINANCE # 2013-004 OF THE CITY OF MOULTON, ALABAMA ADOPTED NOVEMBER 4, 2013”

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 unincorporated Lawrence 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 Lawrence County, Alabama

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

Lawrence County scores 69/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop and about 44,556 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Lawrence 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 Lawrence County Health Department (Alabama Department of Public Health, Onsite Sewage program). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

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

How much does land cost in Lawrence County, Alabama?

Land in Lawrence County runs about $4,865 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Lawrence County?

Lawrence County gets about 57.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 5.9% of years.

How remote is Lawrence County?

A representative private-land location has about 44,556 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,033,241 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 Lawrence compares in Alabama

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