Building permits, zoning and land rules in Bibb County, Alabama
76Index Score / 100 #22 of 67 in Alabama
Bibb County, Alabama reports that a building permit is not required in unincorporated areas, but the county does not publish a permit rule, inspection program or adopted building code online; confirm your parcel and project with the County Commission before work begins1. Septic installation or repair does require a permit from the Bibb County Health Department2. Centreville has a separate city building-permit and zoning process34.
At a glance
Building permit
Reported as not required in unincorporated Bibb County, but confirm with the County Commission because no county permit rule is published1
County zoning
Reported as absent in unincorporated Bibb County, but no county ordinance expressly confirming that was located56
Centreville permits
Required for residential and commercial construction inside the city3
Septic permits
Required before installing or repairing an onsite sewage system; apply through the Bibb County Health Department27
RV or tiny-home living
County occupancy and land-use rules could not be confirmed; any dwelling still needs approved sewage disposal8
Owner-builder
A qualifying owner-builder exemption from state home-builder licensing is available, subject to personal-supervision and own-use conditions9
Septic soils
Only 5.7% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field10
County government contact for confirming whether an unincorporated parcel or project has a county permit, inspection, floodplain, or subdivision requirement
Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 28, 2026.
Do you need a building permit in Bibb County, Alabama?
For unincorporated Bibb County, the available county information reports that a building permit is not required, but the county website does not publish an ordinance, exemption, fee schedule or inspection procedure that conclusively answers every project type1. Alabama county commissions may adopt and enforce residential building laws and codes in unincorporated areas, so the absence of a listed building department is not itself proof that no project-specific approval applies11. Call the Bibb County Commission Office at 205-926-3114 before construction and describe the parcel location, proposed use and structure12. Inside Centreville, the answer is different: the city requires a building permit for residential and commercial construction, including major renovations, remodeling, additions and swimming-pool additions3.
Who is the Bibb County building department, and how do you reach it?
Bibb County does not list a dedicated building department, inspector or permit office on its official directory1. The practical first call for an unincorporated parcel is the Bibb County Commission Office, 157 S.W. Davidson Drive, Centreville, AL 35042, at 205-926-311412. Ask the office to confirm building permits, inspections, certificates of occupancy, floodplain administration and subdivision review for the exact parcel because those county-specific procedures are not published. For a parcel inside Centreville, contact the city instead: Centreville requires building permits for residential and commercial construction and directs applicants to its City Clerk3. For onsite sewage anywhere in Bibb County, contact the Bibb County Health Department rather than the Commission7.
Does Bibb County have zoning?
Unincorporated Bibb County is reported as having no countywide zoning, but no county ordinance or official statement expressly confirming that status was located5. Alabama counties lack broad general land-use authority under general state law, although limited authority can arise through local laws and for special subjects such as flood-prone areas6. Do not treat a rural parcel as unrestricted until the Bibb County Commission confirms its jurisdiction and any recorded subdivision restrictions, easements or floodplain controls. Municipal boundaries matter: Centreville has adopted a zoning ordinance and tells property owners to consult it before construction4. Zoning status for Brent, West Blocton and Woodstock could not be confirmed from the available countywide material, so contact the applicable municipality when a parcel lies inside its limits or police jurisdiction.
How do septic permits work in Bibb County?
The Bibb County Health Department handles onsite sewage applications and permits, including septic-tank applications7. Before installing or repairing an onsite sewage system, the responsible person must obtain a valid Permit to Install or Repair from the local health department2. The local health department must have an opportunity to inspect before the installation is covered or used, and the system cannot be used until the department issues an Approval for Use13. Call the Environmental Office through the Bibb County Health Department at 205-926-9702, 281 Alexander Avenue, Centreville, Alabama 3504214. Site feasibility deserves early attention: only 5.7% of Bibb County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so obtain a site and soil evaluation before fixing the house location10.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Bibb County?
Bibb County's rules for full-time RV occupancy, tiny homes, temporary camping, dwelling size and setbacks could not be confirmed, so ask the Bibb County Commission about the exact parcel and proposed use. A reported absence of countywide zoning does not answer sanitation, floodplain, utility or recorded private restrictions5. Alabama requires an occupied dwelling or establishment to have an approved sewage-disposal system, and off-grid sanitation alternatives remain subject to detailed state conditions8. A qualifying manufactured home may be used as a residence under state law when it meets the manufactured-home definition, bears a HUD Seal, connects to required utilities and is installed by a certified installer; local building laws may still apply15. Centreville's separate zoning and building-permit rules apply inside the city43.
Building a home in Bibb County: the steps, in order
Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside a municipality; Centreville has its own zoning and building-permit process43.
Call the Bibb County Commission to confirm county permits, inspections, floodplain review and subdivision requirements for the parcel12.
Arrange the septic site and soil evaluation, then obtain the health department's Permit to Install before septic work starts2.
If using Alabama's owner-builder licensing exemption, make sure the home is for your own occupancy or use and that you personally provide all material supervision9.
Obtain an ALDOT access permit if the driveway connects to a state highway16.
Give the health department its inspection opportunity and obtain Approval for Use before using the onsite system13.
What should you check before buying land in Bibb County?
Start with septic feasibility: only 5.7% of Bibb County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field10. Check municipal boundaries because Centreville has city zoning and building permits, while the aggregate zoning status of other municipalities is not confirmed43. Verify legal access and identify whether a driveway would enter a state highway, which requires an ALDOT permit16. Ask the County Commission about mapped flood hazards and local administration; participating Alabama communities must require permits for development in a Special Flood Hazard Area17. Bibb County is 88% wooded and 64.7% of its land is at a slope of 15% or less, so clearing, drainage and usable building area can vary sharply by tract1819. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.2%, with a median annual bill of about $2712021.
Watch-outs
Bibb County does not publish a definitive unincorporated building-permit, inspection or certificate-of-occupancy rule; call the County Commission before buying materials or starting work112.
Centreville requires city building permits and applies its own zoning ordinance, so the rural-county answer does not apply inside the city34.
A septic system cannot be used until the local health department issues Approval for Use13.
Bibb County's subdivision rules, private-well permitting and RV or tiny-home occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask the County Commission and the Health Department before committing to a parcel1214.
Written September 28, 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.
Bibb County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score
How Bibb County scores
Seclusion62100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency65100% ev.
Admin Boringness86100% ev.
Durability62100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost89100% ev.
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Answers from the rulebook for Bibb County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Bibb County rules
Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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 Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com.
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
Onsite sewage and septic-system administration in Bibb County.
The Bibb County Health Department provides onsite sewage and septic-related applications and permits.
ADPH establishes and enforces statewide requirements for onsite sewage design, permitting, installation, approval, and use.
“The Bibb County Health Department provides many services to the public. [...] Onsite Sewage - Applications and Permits”
Septic inspectionRequired
Installation or repair of an onsite sewage system in Bibb County before covering, use, or occupancy.
The Local Health Department must be afforded an opportunity to inspect before any part of the installation is covered or used, except as allowed by the rule.
Necessary corrections must be made before use.
The system cannot be used until the Local Health Department issues an Approval for Use.
The installer must agree on an inspection time and date with the Local Health Department public-health environmentalist and verify readiness by 9 a.m. on the inspection date.
The installer must submit ADPH Form CEP-5 within 3 business days after installation; an engineer-designed system also requires engineer certification on ADPH Form CEP-6 before Approval for Use.
The Local Health Department may allow coverage when resource constraints, weather, or unforeseen circumstances prevent inspection within 30 minutes after the agreed inspection time.
“An OSS/EDS shall not be used until an Approval for Use has been issued by the LHD.”
Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)
Off-grid sanitation through an onsite sewage system on property in Bibb County without available or practical municipal sewer service.
An onsite sewage system must be permitted before installation or repair.
The Local Health Department must inspect or be afforded an opportunity to inspect before covering or use, and must issue an Approval for Use before the system is used.
The septic system must satisfy applicable state onsite-sewage rules and permit conditions.
“Septic tank systems are used where municipal sewers are not available or are impractical.”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Onsite sewage disposal permit applications handled through the Bibb County Health Department.
The official Bibb County Health Department page identifies onsite sewage applications and permits as an environmental service.
The state forms page publishes separate applications for small-flow systems, large-flow developments, installation or repair, and performance or operations permits.
small-flow threshold: < 1800 GPD (The form also covers systems of twelve bedrooms or less.) · small-flow bedroom threshold: <= 12 bedrooms · large-flow threshold: >= 1800 GPD (The large-flow form also applies to developments with thirteen bedrooms or more.)
“Application for a Permit to Install (Repair) Small Flow Onsite Sewage Disposal System of Total Flow Less than 1800 GPD or Twelve Bedrooms or Less”
County-wide zoningAbsent
The county's official departments listing includes no planning commission or zoning department, indicating no county-wide zoning in unincorporated Bibb County.
Residential construction undertakings in Alabama for which the Home Builders Licensure Law requires a residential home builders license and a local incorporated municipality, municipal subdivision, or county authority issues the building or similar permit.
The issuing building official must refuse the permit unless the applicant provides evidence of the required license or an exemption.
The cited provision addresses undertakings requiring a license; it does not establish that every residential project statewide requires a building permit.
Local building-permit rules and local building codes remain applicable.
“to refuse to issue a permit for any undertaking which would require a license hereunder unless the applicant has furnished evidence”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Issuance of a building or similar permit in Alabama for a residential undertaking that requires a license under the Home Builders Licensure Law, including projects in Bibb County.
“It is the duty of the building official, or other authority charged with the duty, of issuing building or similar permits, of any incorporated municipality or subdivision of the municipality or county, to refuse to issue a permit for any undertaking which would require a license hereunder unless the applicant has furnished evidence that he or she is either licensed as required by this chapter or is exempt from the requirements of this chapter.”
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”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Available (with conditions) — An owner acting as the owner-builder for construction or improvement of the owner's one-family or two-family residence in Bibb County or elsewhere in Alabama.
“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.”
Available (with conditions) — An owner acting as the owner’s own residential home builder, including residential roofer, for a one-family or two-family residence on the owner’s property in Alabama.
“The licensing requirements of the Act shall not apply to:”
Available (with conditions) — Alabama Home Builders Licensure Law licensing exemption for an owner acting as the owner’s own residential contractor when building or improving a one-family or two-family residence for the owner’s own occupancy or use.
“Owners of property when acting as their own contractor and providing all material supervision themselves, when building or improving one-family or two-family residences on such property for the occupancy or use of such owners and not offered for sale. This exemption is a nontransferable privilege.”
Building code adoptedPartial
Residential construction and improvements governed by Alabama's Home Builders Licensure Law, including construction in local jurisdictions without an already adopted residential building code.
The Home Builders Licensure Board has sole authority to adopt the Alabama Residential Building Code and Alabama Residential Energy Code.
The statewide residential building code is stated by the official HBLB Spring 2026 newsletter to go into effect January 1, 2027.
The statewide code establishes minimum standards in local jurisdictions that do not already have an adopted residential building code.
Local jurisdictions with an adopted code and enforcement do not need to make a change under the described transition framework.
The 2025 statute provides that the Alabama Residential Building Code does not supersede a local residential building code adopted by a county or municipality in effect on January 1, 2027.
A local building code adopted after January 1, 2027, must meet the minimum standards of the Alabama Residential Building Code and Alabama Residential Energy Code in effect when adopted; local conditions may support amendments, subject to the statutory limits.
The Alabama Residential Building Code does not apply to an agricultural building except for a residence contained therein.
statewide residential building code effective date: 2027-01-01 · post-2027 local-code minimum: must meet the Alabama Residential Building Code and Alabama Residential Energy Code minimum standards (Local conditions may require amendments subject to statutory limits.)
“Beginning January 1, 2027, a residential home builder within this state who constructs, renovates, or repairs a residence or structure shall do so”
10 more reviewed findings on this topic
Partial — Building work in Alabama within the State Building Code jurisdiction, including state-owned or state-funded work, K-12 schools, postsecondary schools, hotels, motels, and movie theaters; ordinary residential and commercial property is generally outside the Division of Construction Management jurisdiction except hotels/motels and movie theaters.
“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.”
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 — Projects within the Alabama Division of Construction Management's State Building Code jurisdiction, including state construction and specified school, hotel/motel, and movie-theater projects; not ordinary residential property.
“DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
Partial — Residential construction in Alabama where a county or municipality has a permitting and inspection program or has adopted a local residential building code; this is not a uniform DCM residential-code jurisdiction.
“The Alabama Residential Building Code shall be enforced by local jurisdictions”
InspectionsLimited
Required DCM construction inspections, pre-construction conferences, and substantial-completion determinations for projects within the narrower DCM inspection jurisdiction.
DCM-required inspections are limited to state-funded construction, any project on state-owned property, public K-12 schools including charter schools, public universities, and ACCS projects with Notices-to-Proceed issued before August 1, 2021.
DCM's broader plan-review/code jurisdiction also includes private K-12 schools, hotels/motels, and movie theaters, but the official DCM jurisdiction page does not include those categories in its stated required-inspection list.
Inspections must be requested by the contractor in writing or by email to the design professional, who coordinates with the DCM inspector.
A permit fee must be paid before scheduling the required DCM pre-construction conference; inspection benchmarks, including periodic, special, final, and year-end inspections when applicable, must then be met.
Fully locally-funded public K-12 projects require DCM pre-construction conferences and inspections regardless of estimated construction cost.
“Conducts required pre-construction conferences, inspections and substantial completions limited to state-funded construction, any project on state-owned property, public K-12 (including charter) schools, on public universities, and on ACCS projects with Notices-to-Proceed issued prior to August 1, 2021.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Residential construction and improvements in Alabama local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs.
“The Alabama Residential Building Code shall be enforced by local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs for residential construction and improvements”
Certificate of occupancyLimited
Residential projects in Alabama municipalities that issue a certificate of occupancy and for which the builder is subject to the Home Builders Licensure Law.
An updated list of subcontractors must be furnished before issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the municipality.
The provision does not establish a statewide requirement that every residential project obtain a certificate of occupancy.
The builder must provide the subcontractor list within three working days after hiring an added subcontractor; the initial list is due within 15 days after issuance of the building permit if requested by the issuing municipality.
No license fee for subcontractors is required as a condition of issuing a building permit or certificate of occupancy.
initial subcontractor list deadline: 15 days after building permit issuance (only if requested by the issuing municipality) · added subcontractor list deadline: 3 working days after hiring
“An updated list of subcontractors shall be furnished by the builder before the issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the municipality.”
Septic permitRequired
Installation or repair of an onsite sewage system or component in Bibb County, including systems serving dwellings or establishments that are not connected to a public sewer.
The responsible person must obtain a valid Permit to Install (Repair) from the local health department before installation or repair begins.
When an engineered OSS is required, installation or construction may not begin without installer consultation with the design engineer.
ADPH may revoke the permit for changes in lot conditions, installation inconsistent with the permit, or other factors affecting approval, including misrepresentation, materially false or inaccurate information, statutory changes, eminent domain, natural changes, man-made alterations, or water impoundments.
The local health department must be notified of a system modification or repair under Rule 420-3-1-.32.
A wastewater management entity required to obtain an Alabama Public Service Commission Certificate of Economic Viability must have that certificate before ADPH or the local health department issues permits.
A permit for disposal of processed septage may be issued only with a variance under Rule 420-3-1-.70.
Performance permits are required for a Large-Flow OSS and for other systems when ADPH, in consultation with the local health department, determines that Approval for Use alone is inadequate to protect public health or the environment.
The Bibb County Health Department lists onsite sewage, septic tank, grease trap, holding tank, and sewage tank pumper applications and permits among its environmental services.
“No person shall begin the installation or repair of an OSS/EDS, or component thereof, until the responsible person has been issued a valid Permit to Install (Repair) an Onsite Sewage System (OSS) by the LHD.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — 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.
“Alabama State Law requires homeowners and businesses not connected to a public sanitary sewer to obtain a permit from the local health department”
Well permitLimited
Groundwater wells in Alabama, including wells potentially located in Bibb County.
An ADEM permit is required for installation of a new well or alteration of an existing well extracting groundwater at 50 gallons per minute or greater when the well surface location is in the coastal area.
The same permit requirement applies when a well surface location is outside the coastal area but its 50-year capture zone extends into the coastal area.
The source does not establish a Bibb County-specific well-permit rule for lower-capacity private wells.
well capacity threshold: >= 50 gallons per minute (Applies to the coastal-area or coastal-capture-zone conditions stated by ADEM.)
“The installation of a new well, or alteration of an existing well [...] requires a permit from the Department.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
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
Normal agricultural land-disturbance activity in Bibb County, Alabama, under Alabama's construction stormwater permit-coverage program.
The exemption concerns ADEM construction stormwater permit coverage and does not establish an exemption from subdivision approval, septic requirements, floodplain requirements, or other applicable rules.
Permit coverage is required for a site disturbing one or more acres; a site disturbing less than one acre that is part of a common plan of development or sale ultimately disturbing one or more acres; or a site of any size whose discharges have a reasonable potential to cause or contribute to a water-quality concern.
For Lake Martin special-designation areas, permit coverage is required if the activity is not otherwise exempt, even when less than one acre is disturbed; Bibb County is not identified as a Lake Martin special-designation area on the cited page.
The ADEM page states that the most recent construction general permit was issued April 1, 2026.
minimum disturbed area generally requiring permit coverage: >= 1 acre (Less-than-one-acre sites may require coverage when part of a larger common plan of development or sale.) · application fee when permit coverage is required: 1385 USD (The cited page states an application fee of $1,385.00 upon submission.)
“Permit coverage is not required for the following: Animal feeding operation (AFO) or concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) construction activity has been granted NPDES registration coverage; Normal agricultural; and Silvicultural activities.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Available (with conditions) — Agricultural buildings under Alabama's residential home-builder licensure law, including work in Bibb County
“(7) Agricultural buildings, except for any residence contained therein.”
Available (with conditions) — Agricultural buildings under the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board residential home-builder licensing rules.
“Agricultural buildings, as defined in Ala. Admin. Code r. 465-X-1-.01(3), except for any residence contained therein.”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision development in Alabama, including county authority in unincorporated areas and applicable municipal-planning-commission territorial jurisdictions.
Alabama does not require every county commission to adopt subdivision regulations.
A county may regulate subdivision development under Ala. Code § 11-24-1 et seq. if it adopts regulations and complies with statutory procedures and enforcement requirements.
For municipal planning commission extraterritorial areas, a county that has adopted subdivision regulations is responsible unless the statutory agreement or municipal override exceptions apply.
The cited handbook describes infrastructure controls for new development in unincorporated county areas but does not establish statewide minimum lot dimensions.
“While there is no requirement in Alabama that the county commission adopt regulations regarding subdivision development, Ala. Code § 11-24-1 et seq. provides strong statutory authority for each county to regulate subdivision development within its territorial jurisdiction.”
Driveway accessLimited
Driveways, turnouts, and other access points from private property to state highways in Bibb County.
A permit is required for access to a state highway.
The completed BM-111 application must be submitted to the District Administrator.
Turnouts are regulated for entrance width, radii, placement, angle of entry, vertical alignment, drainage, and number of entrances.
For major developments, regulation is based on the overall development area; out parcels should be served internally where appropriate.
All turnout costs are paid by the applicant.
side drain pipe minimum diameter: >= 15 inches (A Region may require an 18-inch side drain pipe.)
“Individuals or businesses which require access to State highways must apply for a permit by submitting a completed BM-111 application to the District Administrator.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Constructing a driveway, turnout, or other access from private, publicly owned, or commercial property to an Alabama state highway.
“Individuals or businesses which require access to State highways must apply for a permit by submitting a completed BM-111 application to the District Administrator.”
Building in a floodplainLimited
Additions or other improvements to structures in floodplains in Bibb County, subject to applicable local requirements.
Improvements valued at less than 50% of the existing structure's market value must meet or exceed the standards used in constructing the existing structure, assuming the existing structure was compliant when constructed.
Improvements valued at 50% or more are substantial improvements and the entire structure must be brought into compliance with the elevations on the map in effect when the improvement begins.
Under certain circumstances only the addition must be elevated.
More stringent local requirements may take precedence.
ADECA states that a development permit will likely be needed and the local building official should be contacted.
substantial improvement threshold: >= 50 percent of existing structure market value
“Additions or other improvements valued at 50% or more of the market value of the existing structure are considered substantial improvements.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Development in a Special Flood Hazard Area within an Alabama community participating in the National Flood Insurance Program.
“When a community chooses to participate in the NFIP, it must require permits for all development in the SFHA”
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
Alabama county authority to adopt zoning for unincorporated land.
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 may regulate land use in flood-prone areas under Ala. Code § 11-19-1 et seq.; flood-prone areas are areas with a frequency of inundation of once in 100 years as defined by qualified hydrologists or engineers using generally accepted methods.
Counties may adopt airport zoning regulations under Ala. Code § 4-6-4 to prevent airport hazards within airport hazard areas.
For airport zoning, the county zoning jurisdiction is unincorporated county land except within a municipality's police jurisdiction and within two miles of a municipal airport when the municipality exercises or declares its intention to exercise zoning control, unless local law provides otherwise.
The handbook notes an exception to the airport-zoning provision for counties with a population of not less than 54,500 nor more than 56,000 according to the 1970 federal decennial census.
“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.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
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
Alabama county commissions adopting and administering residential building laws and codes in unincorporated areas.
A county commission must act by resolution to adopt building laws or codes.
The resolution must be provided to the Home Builders Licensure Board within 10 business days.
A local building law or code generally may not take effect until 120 days after adoption; for insurance claims requiring licensed work, the effective date is the date of adoption.
County building laws and codes may be enforced in a municipality's police jurisdiction outside municipal corporate limits as provided by Section 11-40-10(b)(2).
Application within municipal corporate limits requires express consent of the municipal governing body.
The county commission may employ building inspectors and exact fees from owners of inspected property.
A county may discontinue administration and enforcement by resolution, but discontinuation generally does not take effect until 120 days after adoption and the resolution must be sent to the Board within 10 business days.
Counties and municipalities may enter mutual agreements, compacts, and contracts for administration and enforcement, with a copy due to the Board within 10 business days.
Beginning January 1, 2027, residential builders must follow the applicable state or local residential building code.
resolution transmission deadline: 10 business days (Copy must be provided to the Home Builders Licensure Board.) · local-code delayed effective period: 120 days (Insurance-claim work requiring a license is effective on the local adoption date.)
“A county commission, by resolution, may adopt building laws and codes”
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 Bibb County
Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.
Building permitRequired
Residential and commercial construction within the City of Centreville, including major renovations, remodeling, additions, and swimming pool additions.
Changes in the historic district have a specific procedure before a permit is issued.
Contractors performing these projects must be licensed.
The page directs applicants to contact the City Clerk for permit questions or to obtain a permit.
“A Building Permit is required for all residential or commercial construction.”
Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
Land and construction projects within the City of Centreville, Bibb County, Alabama.
Before commencing construction, the applicable Centreville Zoning Ordinance must be consulted for restrictions or prohibitions.
“The City Council adopted a Zoning Ordinance. Before commencing any construction projects please consult the Zoning Ordinance to determine if any restrictions or prohibitions apply to your planned project.”
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 or transient lodging use in Bibb 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 Bibb County, Alabama
Is Bibb County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Bibb County scores 76/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.
Do you need a building permit in Bibb County, Alabama?
Bibb 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 Bibb 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 Bibb County?
Living in an RV on your own land in Bibb County is allowed: Unincorporated Bibb County: no county rule sets this, because Alabama law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Bibb County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bibbal.com. 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 Bibb County, Alabama?
Land in Bibb County runs about $2,611 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Bibb County?
Bibb County gets about 55.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 6% of years.
How remote is Bibb County?
A typical private-land location has about 39,490 people within 15 miles and 2,875,214 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.
Off-grid gear
Going off-grid in Bibb County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:
