Bolthole Index

Morgan County, Alabama

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

63Index Score / 100
#57 of 67 in Alabama

Unincorporated Morgan County, Alabama requires a development permit before work begins in a regulated floodplain; we could not confirm a general residential building-permit requirement outside those areas1. Ask the Morgan County Engineer's Office about county zoning and subdivision constraints23. Septic permits come from the Morgan County Health Department for properties off public sewer, including new systems and repairs45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for development in regulated unincorporated floodplains; a general requirement outside them was not confirmed1
Zoning
Countywide zoning was not confirmed; ask the Engineer's Office about the parcel2
Subdivision review
County-regulated in unincorporated areas, with possible municipal planning jurisdiction3
Septic permits
Health Department Permit to Install required for new systems and repairs off public sewer; inspection and Approval for Use follow456
RV and tiny-home use
Private-land occupancy rules unconfirmed; park-model tiny homes are temporary living quarters7
Owner-builder exemption
Available for an owner-supervised one- or two-family home for the owner's own use8
Water wells
Driller licensing and pre-work notice required; completion certification due within 30 days9

Who to call

Floodplain permits

Morgan County Engineer's Office

Floodplain development permits and inspections, the Morgan County subdivision regulations, utility permits in county road right-of-way, and driveway/access coordination

256-773-5297

gbodley@morgancounty-al.gov

580 Shull Road, Hartselle, AL 35640

Septic permits

Morgan County Health Department – Environmental Services

Onsite sewage (septic) permit applications and septic tank complaints for Morgan County

256-340-6563

3821 Hwy. 31 South, Decatur, Alabama 35603

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

Off-grid gear

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

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

Unincorporated Morgan County requires a Development Permit before construction or other development begins in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area or another county-designated flood hazard area1. We could not confirm a general county residential building-permit requirement outside regulated floodplains; ask the Morgan County Engineer's Office to check the parcel and proposed work2. Floodplain projects can require plans, elevations, utility-protection details, professional certifications and inspections during construction1011. Decatur, Hartselle and Priceville handle their own municipal building permits; the cited Hartselle provision concerns manufactured-home subdivisions, and Priceville's concerns subdivision development121314. Huntsville, mainly in Madison County but reaching into Morgan County, also issues its own building permits15. Septic applications remain with the Morgan County Health Department4.

Who handles floodplain development permits in Morgan County?

The Morgan County Engineer's Office handles the county flood ordinance, subdivision regulations and utility permits within county road right-of-way2. Reach the office at 580 Shull Road, Hartselle, AL 35640, 256-773-5297, or gbodley@morgancounty-al.gov2. For a new division of unincorporated land, the county administers subdivision review, although a municipal planning commission may control a development in its planning jurisdiction3. A plat within the Hartselle Planning Commission's jurisdiction needs commission approval before it is filed with the Morgan County Probate Judge's Office16. The Morgan County Health Department, not a city building office, is the county-level contact for onsite sewage and septic-tank applications417.

Does Morgan County have zoning?

We could not confirm whether unincorporated Morgan County has a current countywide zoning ordinance; ask the Morgan County Engineer's Office about the parcel's land-use constraints2. Alabama counties lack broad general land-use authority under general state law, but local laws and special statutory powers can authorize zoning and other controls18. Morgan County administers subdivision regulations and floodplain development controls in unincorporated areas31. Inside city limits, Decatur, Hartselle and Priceville have their own zoning rules192021. Hartselle's planning office handles zoning questions, and the city warns that recent amendments may not appear online2223. Municipal zoning does not replace the Morgan County Health Department's role in onsite-sewage applications4.

How do septic permits work in Morgan County?

The Morgan County Health Department administers onsite-sewage and septic-tank applications and permits throughout Morgan County4. A property not connected to public sanitary sewer needs a Permit to Install before a new onsite sewage system is built or an existing system is repaired; the installer must be licensed by the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board5. If public sewer is unavailable, soil testing determines septic suitability, and unsuitable conditions may require an engineered system24. Only 18.7% of Morgan County soils are rated free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make site review an early purchase contingency25. Call the Health Department before installation to schedule the required inspection, and obtain Approval for Use before occupying the building6. The environmental office is at 3821 Hwy. 31 South, Decatur, Alabama 35603, phone 256-340-656317.

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

We could not confirm private-land RV or tiny-home occupancy rules for unincorporated Morgan County; ask the Engineer's Office about the proposed site and the Health Department about sewage disposal217. A park-model tiny home is temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or seasonal use under Alabama rules, not a permanent dwelling7. A manufactured home must be installed by an Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission-certified installer and meet the Commission's standards26. New or repaired onsite sewage systems require a Permit to Install, inspection and Approval for Use before building occupancy56. Regulated floodplain development requires county approval before work begins1. Inside Decatur, Hartselle or Priceville, ask the city's planning office about occupancy because municipal zoning applies192021.

What are the steps to building a home in Morgan County?

  1. Establish the parcel's jurisdiction: Decatur, Hartselle and Priceville have municipal zoning and building-permit rules192021121314.
  2. Ask the Morgan County Engineer's Office for a floodplain determination and any subdivision review that applies132.
  3. Obtain the floodplain Development Permit before starting regulated work10.
  4. For a property off public sewer, complete site review and obtain the Health Department's Permit to Install before septic construction or repair245.
  5. If using the owner-builder licensing exemption, personally supervise construction of the home intended for your own use8.
  6. For a well, use a licensed driller who files the pre-work notice and completion certification9.
  7. Schedule septic inspection, obtain Approval for Use, and submit required final floodplain certifications before occupancy627.

What should you check before buying land in Morgan County?

Start with jurisdiction and subdivision status: unincorporated parcels can face county subdivision review, while a municipal planning commission may have authority in its planning area3. Ask the Morgan County Engineer's Office whether the project needs a floodplain Development Permit and what fees apply12. Make septic suitability a contract contingency because only 18.7% of county soils are rated free of severe limits for a conventional drain field25. For a private well, use a licensed driller who files Alabama's required notice before work and completion certification within 30 days afterward9. We could not confirm a county rule for a new residential driveway connection; ask the Engineer's Office about county-road access2. Access onto an Alabama state highway requires an ALDOT turnout permit28. Morgan County's effective property-tax rate is about 0.3%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $6742930.

Watch-outs

  • County zoning and private-land RV occupancy remain unconfirmed; ask the Morgan County Engineer's Office before treating unincorporated land as unrestricted2.
  • Hartselle warns that recently adopted zoning amendments may not yet appear in its online compilation, so confirm the current ordinance with the city23.
  • Beginning January 1, 2027, Alabama residential home builders must follow the applicable state or local residential building code31.

Sources

  1. Engineer’s Office - Morgan County Commission, quoted and re-checked
  2. Morgan County Engineer's Office (morgancounty-al.gov)
  3. Engineer’s Office - Morgan County Commission, quoted and re-checked
  4. Morgan County Health Department Services, quoted and re-checked
  5. Can I Live On This Lot?, quoted and re-checked
  6. Environmental Services | Madison County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  7. amhc.alabama.gov, quoted and re-checked
  8. Exemptions - Home Builders Licensure Board, quoted and re-checked
  9. Water Well Standards Program — Division 335-9, quoted and re-checked
  10. Morgan County, Alabama Floodplain Development Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. Morgan County Floodplain Development Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  12. Decatur: Building Department (Morgan County), quoted and re-checked
  13. Hartselle: Code of Ordinances: Appendix A—Zoning, Sec. 21.4 Manufactured home subdivision district (MHS) (Morgan County), quoted and re-checked
  14. Priceville: Priceville Subdivision Regulations – Amended April 21, 2025 (Morgan County), quoted and re-checked
  15. Huntsville: official source (Morgan County), quoted and re-checked
  16. Subdivision Regulations_May 2025, quoted and re-checked
  17. Morgan County Health Department – Environmental Services (alabamapublichealth.gov)
  18. Handbook for Alabama County Commissioners, 13th edition (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. Decatur: Planning & Development (Morgan County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Hartselle: Appendix A—Zoning, Article 4—Enforcement (Morgan County), quoted and re-checked
  21. Priceville: Priceville Zoning Ordinance – Adopted May 27, 2025 (Morgan County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Planning - City of Hartselle, Alabama, quoted and re-checked
  23. Zoning / Rezoning, quoted and re-checked
  24. Environmental Services | Madison County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  25. 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
  26. Installers, quoted and re-checked
  27. Morgan County Floodplain Development Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  28. ALDOT Permit Manual (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Home Builders Licensure Law, Effective October 1, 2025 (Alabama statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 4 of its 6 neighbors, Morgan County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleMorgan CountyLimestone CountyCullman CountyLawrence CountyMadison CountyMarshall CountyBlount County
Building permitLimitedNot requiredLimitedNot requiredRequiredLimitedNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoYesNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept. Env. Services

County locator

Morgan County in Alabama

63
County map
Morgan County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score

How Morgan County scores

Seclusion31100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency77100% ev.
Admin Boringness86100% ev.
Durability58100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost79100% 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 →

$238kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$6,130Land / acre
56.3"Annual rain
5.8% of yrsSevere drought
12.5 / yr (+11.4)Mid-century 100°F days
14.6 daysMid-century dry spell
2.63" (+8.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.41×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,829Home insurance / yr
1.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.66%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
112,922People within 30 min
3,335,072People within 2 hr
116,554Radius comparison (15 mi)
215.9People / sq mi
4.5%Federal land
85.4%Land at 15% slope or less
18.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
66,404 acWorkable land screen
56.4%Wooded land
60.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
60.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Morgan County

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

Not yet researched: Town of Eva · Town of Somerville · Trinity

Answers from the rulebook for Morgan County

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

Morgan County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Floodplain development, including development defined by the ordinance to include buildings or other structures, in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas and additional designated Community Flood Hazard Areas within unincorporated Morgan County.

    • A Development Permit is required before commencement of development in identified SFHAs and additional identified Community Flood Hazard Areas.
    • The Morgan County Engineer administers the ordinance as Floodplain Administrator.
    • The ordinance applies to FEMA SFHAs and additional areas designated by Morgan County as floodplains or areas subject to flooding within the county jurisdiction.
    • The county commission minutes adopt this ordinance specifically for unincorporated Morgan County; this claim does not extend the county rule to incorporated municipalities.
    • The ordinance became effective January 23, 2024 and was adopted on January 23, 2024.

    permit timing: prior to commencement of development · effective date: 2024-01-23

    “A Development Permit shall be required in conformance with the provisions of this Ordinance PRIOR to the commencement of any development, as defined in this Ordinance, in identified SFHAs and any additional identified Community Flood Hazard Areas within the community.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Projects during construction throughout Morgan County Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) subject to the county floodplain ordinance.

    • Periodic inspections apply throughout the SFHAs and are intended to ensure compliance with the ordinance and permit terms.
    • The inspections/engineering department may enter premises within Morgan County during normal business hours upon presentation of proper credentials for inspection or enforcement.
    • Failure to submit required certifications or correct deficiencies may result in a Notice of Violation or Stop-Work Order.
    • The ordinance became effective and was adopted on January 23, 2024.
    “periodic inspections of projects during construction”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Certificate of Compliance/Occupancy issuance for construction subject to Morgan County’s floodplain development ordinance.

    • Before issuance, the permit holder must submit a FEMA elevation certificate depicting all finished-construction elevations.
    • A FEMA floodproofing certificate is required if the project includes a floodproofing measure.
    • The Floodplain Administrator reviews submitted certificates and data; deficiencies must be corrected immediately and before issuance.
    • Another certification may be required in some instances for corrected as-built construction.
    • Required completion and compliance documentation must be provided at completion or maintained by inspectors throughout construction.
    • Failure to submit certifications, make corrections, or provide required documentation is cause to withhold issuance.
    • A post-construction elevation certificate must be kept with the permit and certificate of occupancy in perpetuity.
    • The ordinance became effective and was adopted on January 23, 2024.
    “prior to issuance of a Certificate of Compliance/Occupancy”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    • 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 septicLocal

    Onsite sewage and septic-tank permitting in Morgan County.

    • The Morgan County Health Department is the local administering office within the Alabama Department of Public Health onsite-sewage program.
    “The Morgan County Health Department provides the following services to the public. [...] Onsite Sewage-Applications and Permits [...] Septic Tank, Grease Trap, and Holding Tank- Applications and Permits”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • County — Onsite sewage and septic permitting in Morgan County, Alabama
      “The Morgan County Health Department provides the following services to the public. [...] Onsite Sewage-Applications and Permits [...] Septic Tank, Grease Trap, and Holding Tank- Applications and Permits”
    • County — Onsite sewage and septic tank permitting and related environmental services in Morgan County, Alabama.
      “The Morgan County Health Department provides the following services to the public. [...] Onsite Sewage-Applications and Permits [...] Septic Tank, Grease Trap, and Holding Tank- Applications and Permits [...] Private Well Water Testing”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction of an onsite sewage disposal system for residential use in Morgan County, including unincorporated areas addressed by the county engineer page.

    • A floodplain determination is required before applying for a sewage-disposal permit because certain things are not allowed in a flood-prone area.
    • The county page states that the required permits must be obtained before construction; otherwise a $300.00 penalty applies.
    • ADPH states that the permit application must be submitted to the local county health department and that construction may begin only after a Permit to Install is issued.
    • The cited county source does not state whether incorporated municipalities impose additional requirements.

    penalty for beginning construction without all required permits: 300 USD

    “Development in Morgan County, at this time, requires permits in three areas, Flood plain, Sewage disposal (i.e. septic tanks), and driveway permits. None of these are optional and are imposed by State and Federal law. [...] A flood plain determination is required prior to applying for a sewage disposal permit as certain things are not allowed in a flood prone area. Note: You must obtain the ALL required permits before beginning any construction or you will be subject to a $300.00 penalty.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction of an onsite sewage disposal system in Morgan County, including a new system or repair of an existing system where the property is not connected to a public sanitary sewer.
      “Before the construction of an onsite sewage disposal system, you must submit an Application for a Permit to Install”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision development in the unincorporated areas of Morgan County, Alabama.

    • The Morgan County Engineer’s Office administers the county subdivision regulations.
    • The county coordinates with municipalities on developments within extraterritorial planning jurisdictions.
    • Municipal planning commissions may have jurisdiction over subdivision development in their jurisdictional areas, subject to statutory exceptions.
    “Administers the Morgan County subdivision regulations”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Floodplain administration and split fees for development permits administered by the Morgan County Engineer.

    • The published fees concern floodplain administration and split fees.
    • The page states that the fees begin 02/01/2024.
    • The linked fee table should be consulted for the applicable amount and fee category.

    fee schedule beginning date: 02/01/2024

    “New Floodplain Administration Fees and Split fees Beginning 02/01/2024 See Table”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Floodplain development in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas and any additional areas designated by Morgan County as floodplains or areas subject to flooding.

    • A Floodplain Development Permit application must be made to the Morgan County Floodplain Administrator before development.
    • The application must include the required plot plans, elevations, foundation information, utility-protection details, and applicable professional certifications described in Article 3, Section B.
    • For new construction and substantial improvements, as-built elevation or floodproofing certification is required immediately after the lowest floor or floodproofing is completed.
    • Before issuance of a Certificate of Compliance/Occupancy, the permit holder must submit the required FEMA elevation or floodproofing certificates and correct deficiencies.
    • Work undertaken before required certifications or approval is at the permit holder’s risk and may result in a Notice of Violation or Stop-Work Order.
    • The ordinance became effective and was adopted on January 23, 2024.

    appeal deadline after Notice of Violation: 10 working days (The ordinance states that an imminent or immediate threat to life or property requires immediate action; a danger to public health or safety receives a 24-hour notice.)

    “Application for a Floodplain Development Permit shall be made to the Floodplain Administrator on forms furnished by the community PRIOR to any development”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    The county's subdivision regulations reference a 'zoning resolution ... when they exist', indicating Morgan County has no general countywide zoning; land use in unincorporated areas is governed by subdivision and floodplain regulations.

    Morgan County Subdivision Regulations (2010) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Alabama rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    “The State Building Code is limited to any new construction, addition, renovation, modification of mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems, sitework and generally any and all work on state-owned property and/or using state funds, on all public and private kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12) schools, on public postsecondary schools, on hotels/motels and on movie theaters. DCM's code jurisdiction over plans and specifications of all municipal and county-owned projects is limited to such projects meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards. DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    11 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — State Building Code coverage for qualifying construction in Morgan County and elsewhere in Alabama.
      “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.”
    • 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”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Onsite sewage or septic system installation in Alabama, including applicable properties in Morgan County

    • The homeowner or business must not be connected to a public sanitary sewer.
    • The health department must be contacted before installation to schedule an inspection.
    • The health department issues an Approval for Use before the building can be occupied.
    • The cited page is a county health department page on the official ADPH site; it states the requirement as Alabama law.
    “Alabama law requires homeowners and businesses, not connected to a public sanitary sewer, to obtain a permit from the local health department, prior to installing a new system or making repairs to an existing onsite system. Prior to installing an onsite sewage system or septic system, call the health department to schedule an inspection. The health department will issue an "Approval for Use" before the building can be occupied.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Onsite sewage systems in Alabama, including systems in Morgan County, when a new system is installed or an existing system is repaired and the property is not connected to a public sanitary sewer.
      “Prior to installing an onsite sewage system or septic system, call the health department to schedule an inspection.”
    • Required — New onsite sewage or septic-system installation in Morgan County for property not connected to a public sanitary sewer.
      “Prior to installing an onsite sewage system or septic system, call the health department to schedule an inspection. The health department will issue an "Approval for Use" before the building can be occupied.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Homeowners and businesses in Alabama, including Morgan County, that are not connected to a public sanitary sewer and that install a new onsite sewage disposal system or repair an existing system.

    • A permit from the local county health department is required before installing a new onsite system or repairing an existing onsite system.
    • If public sewer is unavailable, the soil must be tested for suitability for an onsite sewage disposal system.
    • Some lots are unsuitable for conventional septic systems; an engineer must design a system where required, including systems with soil percolation rates greater than 60 minutes or locations with a shallow limiting zone such as groundwater, clay, or bedrock.
    • The application and plans must be complete and satisfy applicable rules before the Permit to Install is issued.
    • Construction may begin only after the Permit to Install is issued.
    • The installer must be licensed by the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board.
    • The local health department must be contacted before installation to schedule an inspection, and an Approval for Use is required before the building may be occupied.
    • The Morgan County Health Department identifies onsite sewage applications and permits among its environmental services.

    soil percolation threshold requiring engineer design: > >60 minutes (Only registered engineers are permitted to design systems with soil percolation rate greater than 60 minutes.)

    “Alabama State Law requires homeowners and businesses not connected to a public sanitary sewer to obtain a permit from the local health department”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Use of onsite sewage disposal instead of public sanitary sewer for property in Morgan County where the property is not connected to public sewer.
      “If it is not, you will be required to have the soil tested to see if the soil is suitable for the installation of an onsite sewage disposal system (septic tank system).”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Use of an onsite septic/onsite sewage treatment and disposal system instead of connection to a municipal sewer where municipal sewers are unavailable or impractical.
      “Septic tank systems are used where municipal sewers are not available or are impractical.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Drilling a water well in Morgan County and elsewhere in Alabama

    • A person proposing to drill a water well must file an annual water-well driller’s-license application by September 30 and pay the stated $200 annual fee.
    • A Notification of Intent to drill a well must be filed with the Board before work begins.
    • The person who drills the well must file a Certification of Completion within 30 days after completion.
    • The source states construction standards and filing requirements, rather than a general individual well construction permit requirement.

    annual water well driller license fee: 200 USD · Notification of Intent filing deadline: before commencement of work · Certification of Completion deadline: 30 days after completion of work

    “Every person who proposes to drill a water well in the State of Alabama shall file, on or before September 30 of each year, an application for a water well driller’s license, along with a payment of the annual fee of $200.00. [...] Every person desiring to drill a water well shall file with the Board, on a form furnished by the Board, a Notification of Intent to drill a well. This form shall be filed prior to the commencement of work. [...] Every person who drills a well shall file a Certification of Completion on the form furnished by the Board within 30 days after completion of work.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Drilling a water well in Alabama, including Morgan County.
      “Every person desiring to drill a water well shall file with the Board, on a form furnished by the Board, a Notification of Intent to drill a well. This form shall be filed prior to the commencement of work. Every person who drills a well shall file a Certification of Completion on the form furnished by the Board within 30 days after completion of work.”
    • Limited — 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.
      “The installation of a new well, or alteration of an existing well, for the purposes of extracting groundwater”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    “When a community chooses to participate in the NFIP, it must require permits for all development in the SFHA”
  • 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 Morgan 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 requiring municipal building review within the City of Priceville.

    • 2015 I.C.C. and 2014 N.E.C. codes apply, including revisions.
    • The Building Inspector and Zoning Officer must approve applications and blueprints before work begins.
    • Zoning regulations apply to the Priceville city limits.
    • A building permit application is required even for construction or improvements not exceeding $1,000 in value to determine whether inspections are applicable.
    • Residential permit fees are $7 per $1,000 of construction value; commercial permit fees are $10 per $1,000; a $12.50 blueprint review fee applies.
    • Sewer and natural-gas permits are separate, and permits obtained after work begins are subject to double standard permit fees.

    International Code Council codes: 2015 edition (including any revisions) · National Electrical Code: 2014 edition (including any revisions) · residential permit fee: per 7 USD per $1,000 market value · commercial permit fee: per 10 USD per $1,000 market value · blueprint review fee: 12.5 USD · construction value threshold: <= 1000 USD (No cost is required, but a building permit application is required to determine whether inspections are applicable)

    “2015 I.C.C. and 2014 N.EC. Codes apply, including any revisions.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction regulated by the City of Hartselle Building Department within the City of Hartselle, Morgan County, Alabama.
      “The 2021 International Building Code is the current code. Codebooks may be obtained from the International Code Council.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Property subject to the City of Hartselle's zoning ordinance.

    • The city page warns that recently adopted amendments may not yet appear in the online compilation and advises confirming current revisions with city staff.
    • Initial zoning is designated by the City Council at annexation.
    • Rezoning applications are reviewed by the Planning Commission and finally determined by the City Council.
    “The most current compilation of the Hartselle Zoning Ordinance may be viewed HERE.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Property within the City of Hartselle, Morgan County, Alabama.
      “The most current compilation of the Hartselle Zoning Ordinance may be viewed HERE. Note: Recently adopted amendments to the Zoning Ordinance may not yet appear in the online compilation.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land within the City of Hartselle, Alabama.
      “The planning office of the Development Department is the point of contact for all planning, subdivision and zoning issues or questions. The planning office may be reached at 256-773-2535. This office maintains the Hartselle Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, and city GIS.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Property within the City of Priceville subject to the Priceville Zoning Ordinance.
      “The Priceville City Council adopted Ordinance 2024-05 on June 24, 2024, which approved the Priceville Zoning Ordinance_06242024.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land within the City of Decatur, Alabama, and the city planning jurisdiction where applicable.
      “The Planning Department provides the following services as part of that responsibility: [...] Zoning or rezoning of land [...] Amendments to the zoning ordinances [...] Site plan reviews for proposed developments”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plats within the jurisdiction of the Hartselle Planning Commission, a municipality located in Morgan County, Alabama.

    • Planning Commission approval by resolution is required before filing the plat with the Probate Judge’s Office of Morgan County, Alabama.
    • The Hartselle regulations state that the jurisdiction of the Hartselle Planning Commission and other municipal bodies does not extend to property owned by state or federal governments.
    • State and federal governments are exempt from municipal subdivision and zoning regulations, although agencies are encouraged to confer with the Hartselle Planning Commission when appropriate.
    “Pursuant to Title 11, Chapter 52, Section 30 of the Code of Alabama, approval of subdivision plats by resolution of the Planning Commission is hereby required as a condition for the filing of such plats with the Probate Judge’s Office of Morgan County, Alabama.”

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 Morgan County, Alabama, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.

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 Morgan County, Alabama

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

Morgan County scores 63/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: about 112,922 people within a 30-minute drive and a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

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

Morgan County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Morgan County Health Department (Alabama Department of Public Health). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

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

Land in Morgan County runs about $6,130 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Morgan County?

Morgan County gets about 56.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 5.8% of years.

How remote is Morgan County?

A representative private-land location has about 112,922 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,335,072 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 Morgan compares in Alabama

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