Bolthole Index

Montgomery County, Alabama

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

62Index Score / 100
#59 of 67 in Alabama

Montgomery County, Alabama requires a building permit before construction begins on a structure over 200 square feet, but only outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road1. Inside those police jurisdictions, the city or town governs building permits and lot size, while septic permits for homes without public sewer still come from the Montgomery County Health Department2,3. We could not confirm a countywide zoning ordinance4.

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

Montgomery County requires a building permit before construction begins on a structure over 200 square feet in county jurisdiction, which is the area outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road.

Montgomery County requires a building permit before construction begins on a structure over 200 square feet in county jurisdiction, which is the area outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road1. Each police jurisdiction extends 3 miles beyond its city or town limit, so a rural-looking parcel may belong to the city or town process instead; the septic permit stays with the county Health Department either way1,3. A non-flood-prone building permit costs $100 per structure when construction starts within six months of issuance1. Starting required work without a building permit adds another $100 fee1. Flood-prone projects use a cost-based sliding scale and must follow the county Floodplain Prevention Ordinance effective December 16, 20257. Alabama's owner-builder exemption covers contractor licensing only and does not remove the county building permit requirement6.

Who issues building permits in Montgomery County, and how do you reach them?

The Montgomery County Engineering Department handles county building permits for property outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road.

The Montgomery County Engineering Department handles county building permits for property outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road1. Call Building Permits at 334-832-4950 or visit 101 South Lawrence St., Montgomery, AL 361041. The county's published process requires the permit before work begins, charges a $100 building permit fee for a non-flood-prone structure when work starts within six months, and uses a cost-based fee for flood-prone work1. Ask County Engineering to confirm jurisdiction, flood status, application materials and inspections before finalizing plans; we could not confirm the adopted code edition or a building-inspection schedule.

Does Montgomery County have zoning?

Montgomery County regulates subdivision development in the unincorporated area, but we could not confirm a general countywide zoning ordinance or published county zoning districts.

Montgomery County regulates subdivision development in the unincorporated area, but we could not confirm a general countywide zoning ordinance or published county zoning districts2. Alabama counties do not receive broad general zoning authority under statewide law; limited authority can come from local laws or specified circumstances5. A proposed subdivision outside municipal jurisdiction that will use onsite sewage needs a minimum 1-acre lot and at least 100 feet of road frontage2. The County Engineer or designee reviews proposed plats, and an approved plat is filed in the County Probate Office2. Inside a municipal police jurisdiction, lot size for lots under two acres is governed by the City Planning Commission, while outside the police jurisdiction the Health Department governs lot size2. Call the County Engineer at (334) 832-1310 to ask which subdivision, municipal, floodplain or other land-use controls apply to the parcel2.

How do septic permits work in Montgomery County?

Alabama's Soil and Onsite Sewage Branch coordinates the program through county health departments, and the Montgomery County Health Department's Environmental Division reviews local applications and issues permits after state requirements are met.

Alabama's Soil and Onsite Sewage Branch coordinates the program through county health departments, and the Montgomery County Health Department's Environmental Division reviews local applications and issues permits after state requirements are met3,8. Call 334-293-6452 or visit 3060 Mobile Highway, Montgomery, Alabama 361089. A homeowner or business without public sewer must obtain a local health department permit before installing or repairing an onsite system; the application includes the fee, two completed application-and-plot-plan sets, soil results and calculations3. A licensed installer must do the work, the Health Department must be called before installation to schedule inspection, and Approval for Use must be issued before occupancy3. Only about 5.5% of Montgomery County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so complete the site evaluation before relying on a listing's claim that a lot is buildable10.

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

We could not confirm Montgomery County rules for long-term RV occupancy, temporary camping or tiny-home occupancy on private land in the unincorporated area.

We could not confirm Montgomery County rules for long-term RV occupancy, temporary camping or tiny-home occupancy on private land in the unincorporated area. Ask the County Engineer at (334) 832-1310 about the parcel and the exact proposed use before buying or moving a unit onto the land2. Alabama recognizes a qualifying manufactured home as a residence when it meets the state definition, bears a HUD Seal and connects to required utilities, but local siting, health, utility and permitting rules still apply11. A manufactured home is not the same category as a travel trailer or motorhome, so the state manufactured-home rule does not answer the RV question11. We also could not confirm a minimum dwelling size or general building setbacks for unincorporated Montgomery County.

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

Ask County Engineering whether the parcel is in Montgomery County's permit jurisdiction or within the City of Montgomery or Town of Pike Road police jurisdiction.

  1. Ask County Engineering whether the parcel is in Montgomery County's permit jurisdiction or within the City of Montgomery or Town of Pike Road police jurisdiction1.
  1. Ask whether subdivision review applies; a septic-served proposed subdivision outside municipal jurisdiction needs at least 1 acre and 100 feet of road frontage2.
  1. If public sewer is unavailable, submit the local septic application and obtain the Permit to Install before installation or repair3.
  1. Confirm flood status, then apply through County Engineering; flood-prone work must follow the county Floodplain Prevention Ordinance and uses a cost-based permit fee1.
  1. An owner may use Alabama's exemption for an owner-occupied one- or two-family home only by personally providing all material supervision and not offering the home for sale6.
  1. For access on a public county road right-of-way, ask Engineering about a turnout; the county provides labor and gravel if the owner supplies the required drainage pipe12.

What should you check before buying land in Montgomery County?

Check jurisdiction first because both named municipal police jurisdictions reach 3 miles beyond their limits.

Check jurisdiction first because both named municipal police jurisdictions reach 3 miles beyond their limits1. Verify legal access next: Montgomery County will install a requested turnout on a public county road right-of-way at no charge when the owner supplies the drainage pipe, while access to an Alabama state highway requires an ALDOT permit and is paid for by the applicant12,13. Test septic feasibility before closing because only about 5.5% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field10. Confirm flood classification with County Engineering because flood-prone construction requires certificates, elevation above the base flood level and a cost-based fee7. We could not confirm a permit rule for an ordinary private well, so ask the Montgomery County Health Department about local requirements and testing.

Watch-outs

  • A parcel can look rural while sitting inside a municipal police jurisdiction that extends 3 miles beyond the City of Montgomery or Town of Pike Road limit; confirm which jurisdiction issues the building permit before applying, since the county Health Department still issues the septic permit1,3.
  • Montgomery County has not confirmed countywide zoning, RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, a minimum dwelling size or general setbacks; ask the County Engineer at (334) 832-1310 about the parcel and proposed use2.
  • Only about 5.5% of Montgomery County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so obtain a professional site evaluation before closing10.

Sources

13 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 9, 2026

  1. Building Permits
  2. Property Development
  3. Onsite Sewage Disposal
  4. Montgomery County, AL - Property Development (Engineering) (2026 county census)
  5. Alabama County Commissioners Handbook, 13th Edition (Alabama statewide rule)
  6. Exemptions
  7. Permits & Licenses
  8. Soil and Onsite Sewage
  9. Montgomery County Health Department, Environmental Division (alabamapublichealth.gov)
  10. 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
  11. What is a manufactured home? (Alabama statewide rule)
  12. Montgomery County Engineering Department (Driveway Turnouts) (montgomerycountyal.gov)
  13. ALDOT Permit Manual (Alabama statewide rule)

Written October 9, 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.

Off-grid gear

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

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

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Montgomery County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleMontgomery CountyElmore CountyLowndes CountyBullock CountyMacon CountyAutauga CountyPike County
Building permitRequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot required
County zoningYesNoNoNoYesNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Montgomery County in Alabama

62
County map
Montgomery County highlighted among the Alabama counties · colored by Index score

How Montgomery County scores

62 / 100 · #59 of 67 in Alabama · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion40100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency67100% ev.
Admin Boringness51100% ev.
Durability64100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost89100% 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 →

$167kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$3,146Land / acre
52.6"Annual rain
13.2% of yrsSevere drought
14.3 / yr (+13.2)Mid-century 100°F days
17.4 daysMid-century dry spell
2.79" (+3.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.3×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,989Home insurance / yr
0.3% / yrInsurance growth
1.18%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
77,830People within 30 min
2,359,892People within 2 hr
225,626Radius comparison (15 mi)
286.5People / sq mi
1.5%Federal land
96.3%Land at 15% slope or less
5.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
27,511 acWorkable land screen
65.4%Wooded land
51.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
65.1°FAvg temp

Scout Montgomery County

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

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

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

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

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

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

Sell land in Montgomery County? Be the only seller on this page →

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

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

Working estimate

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

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

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

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

Cities and towns in Montgomery 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.

Answers from the rulebook for Montgomery County

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

Montgomery County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction of any structure exceeding 200 square feet within Montgomery County jurisdiction outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and Town of Pike Road.

    • The permit must be obtained before construction begins.
    • The City of Montgomery police jurisdiction extends 3 miles from the city limit line.
    • The Town of Pike Road police jurisdiction extends 3 miles outside the town limit line.

    structure size threshold: > 200 square feet

    “excess of 200 square feet is required before construction begins”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning and land-use controls across Montgomery County, including municipal jurisdictions, police jurisdictions, and unincorporated areas; the county page identifies municipal planning/zoning controls in some areas and county/health-related subdivision controls outside municipalities.

    • The county's subdivision resolution applies outside the legal jurisdiction of any municipality.
    • The county page states that areas zoned Agricultural within the City of Montgomery police jurisdiction have parallel lot-size requirements.
    • For lots within a police jurisdiction and less than two acres, lot size is governed by the City Planning Commission.
    • For lots outside the police jurisdiction, lot size is governed by the Health Department.
    • The page states that the new subdivision law does not apply inside the corporate limits of a municipality or to a sale, deed, or transfer to an immediate family member.

    minimum lot size for proposed subdivisions served by onsite sewage: 1 acre (Applies under the county resolution to proposed subdivisions outside municipal legal jurisdiction) · minimum road frontage for proposed subdivisions served by onsite sewage: 100 feet (Applies under the county resolution to proposed subdivisions outside municipal legal jurisdiction)

    “Lots within the police jurisdiction with less than two acres, must have a 50-foot right-of-way, curb and gutter is required with a 31-foot pavement back to back of curb with sidewalk. Lot size is governed by the City Planning Commission. Lots within the police jurisdiction with two acres or more, must have a 60-foot right-of-way, with ditch section and 24-foot pavement without sidewalks. Lots outside the police jurisdiction must have a 60-foot right-of-way, with ditch section and 20-foot pavement without sidewalks. Lot size is governed by the Health Department.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Proposed subdivisions outside the legal jurisdiction of any municipality in Montgomery County that will be served by onsite sewage disposal systems.

    • The minimum lot size is one acre.
    • The minimum road frontage is 100 feet.
    • The rule was adopted by Montgomery County Commission resolution on December 7, 1998.
    • The page states that the rule parallels present requirements for Agricultural-zoned areas within the City of Montgomery police jurisdiction served by onsite sewage systems.

    minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · minimum road frontage: >= 100 feet

    “On December 7, 1998, the Montgomery County Commission adopted a resolution governing lot size for development of subdivisions located outside the legal jurisdiction of any municipality in Montgomery County. This resolution requires a minimum lot size of one (1) acre with a minimum of one hundred (100) feet of road frontage for proposed subdivisions to be served by on-site sewage disposal systems and parallels present requirements for areas zoned Agricultural within the City of Montgomery police jurisdiction that would be served by on-site sewage disposal systems.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage permitting and inspection in Montgomery County.

    • The Montgomery County Health Department Environmental Division receives and reviews permit applications.
    • Permits are issued after state regulations have been met.
    • The health department schedules inspections and issues Approval for Use before occupancy.
    “A health department environmentalist will review the application”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Homeowners and businesses in Montgomery County not connected to a public sanitary sewer installing a new onsite sewage system or repairing an existing onsite system.

    • A permit from the local health department is required before installation or repair.
    • The application must include the application fee, two sets of the completed permit application form and plot plan.
    • A health department environmentalist reviews the application, soil test results, and calculations.
    • The Permit to Install is issued after all state regulations have been met.
    “obtain a permit from the local health department”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Onsite sewage systems installed in Montgomery County before the building is occupied.

    • The health department must be called before installation begins to schedule an inspection.
    • The health department issues an Approval for Use before the building can be occupied.
    • A licensed installer must install the system.
    “Call the health department prior to beginning the installation to schedule an inspection. The health department will issue an "Approval for Use" before the building can be occupied.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision platting and proposed subdivisions outside the incorporated limits of municipalities in Montgomery County.

    • The County Engineer or designee reviews proposed plats and certifies compliance to the County Commission.
    • At least 10 days before County Commission consideration, certified-mail notice of approval or disapproval must be sent to the owner or developer, immediately adjoining property owners, and each affected utility.
    • After the 10-day notice period, a proposal meeting County regulations is approved by the County Commission.
    • An approved plat is filed in the County Probate Office.
    • The stated exception excludes subdivisions inside municipal corporate limits and sale, deed, or transfer by the owner to an immediate family member.
    • The County's maintenance assumption depends on certain developmental criteria, including Alabama Act 97-422.

    notice period: 10 days

    “The County Engineer or his designee must review all proposed plats”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction of structures within flood-prone areas under Montgomery County jurisdiction.

    • Flood-prone structures must be built in accordance with the Montgomery County Floodplain Prevention Ordinance.
    • The ordinance is stated as effective December 16, 2025.
    • The cost of flood-prone building permits is based on a sliding scale according to the cost of the structure.

    ordinance effective date: 2025-12-16 · permit fee: sliding scale (based on the cost of the structure)

    “Permits for construction of structures within flood prone areas must be built in accordance to The Montgomery County Floodplain Prevention Ordinance effective 12/16/2025. The cost for flood-prone building permits is based on a sliding scale according to the cost of the structure.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Flood-prone buildings, structures, or alterations requiring a Montgomery County building permit outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road.

    • The Flood Plain Administrator or authorized agent determines whether the structure is in a flood-prone area, outside a flood-prone area, or in an undetermined area.
    • For flood-prone structures, an elevation certificate and a no-rise certificate from a certified engineer are required.
    • The first-floor elevation must be two feet above the base flood elevation.
    • The certificate is furnished by the landowner or builder.
    • For an undetermined area, the Flood Plain Administrator or authorized agent must physically inspect the site and determine whether it is flood-prone.
    • If an undetermined site is determined to be flood-prone, the paragraph 3 sliding-scale fees apply.
    • If an undetermined site is determined to be outside a flood-prone area, no further fee is charged.
    • For a structure outside a flood-prone area, no further fee is charged after the minimum permit fee.
    • The published schedule is effective October 1, 2005.
    • The building-permit page states that flood-prone construction must comply with the Montgomery County Floodplain Prevention Ordinance effective December 16, 2025.

    structure cost: $0.00-$3,000.00 USD (permit fee $100.00) · structure cost: $3,000.01-$15,000.00 USD ($100.00 for the first $3,000 plus $10.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof) · structure cost: $15,000.01-$100,000.00 USD ($150.00 for the first $15,000 plus $2.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof) · structure cost: $100,000.01-$500,000.00 USD ($320.00 for the first $100,000 plus $1.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof) · structure cost: $500,000.01-$1,000,000.00 USD ($720.00 for the first $500,000 plus 40 cents for each additional thousand or fraction thereof) · structure cost: > $1,000,000.01 and over USD ($920.00 for the first $1,000,000 plus 15 cents for each additional thousand or fraction thereof) · first-floor elevation: 2 feet above base flood elevation

    “If the structure to be built or altered is in a flood prone area, an elevation certificate and a no rise certificate by a certified engineer is required. The first floor elevation is to be two (2) feet above the base flood elevation. The certificate will be furnished by the land owner or builder and the permit fees will be as follows: $0.00 to $3,000.00 – $100.00 $3,000.01 to $15,000.00 – $100.00 for the first three thousand plus $10.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof. $15,000.01 to $100,000.00 – $150.00 for the first fifteen thousand plus $2.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof. $100,000.01 to $500,000.00 – $320.00 for the first one hundred thousand plus $1.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof. $500,000.01 to $1,000,000.00 – $720.00 for the first five hundred thousand plus 40 cents for each additional thousand or fraction thereof. $1,000,000.01 and over – $920.00 for the first million plus 15 cents for each additional thousand or fraction thereof.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Buildings, structures, or alterations requiring a Montgomery County building permit in the county jurisdiction outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road.
      “A building permit for construction of any structure in excess of 200 square feet is required before construction begins within Montgomery County's jurisdiction, located outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road. The City of Montgomery's police jurisdiction extends 3 miles out from the city limit line. The Town of Pike Road's police jurisdiction extends 3 miles outside the town limit line. Non-flood prone permits cost $100.00 per structure if construction is begun within six months of issuance.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Building permits for structures in Montgomery County jurisdiction outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road, when the structure is outside a flood-prone area.
      “A building permit for construction of any structure in excess of 200 square feet is required before construction begins within Montgomery County's jurisdiction, located outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road. The City of Montgomery's police jurisdiction extends 3 miles out from the city limit line. The Town of Pike Road's police jurisdiction extends 3 miles outside the town limit line. Non-flood prone permits cost $100.00 per structure if construction is begun within six months of issuance.”
    • Variable (with conditions) — Building permits for structures in Montgomery County jurisdiction outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road, when the structure is in a flood-prone area.
      “If the structure to be built or altered is in a flood prone area, an elevation certificate and a no rise certificate by a certified engineer is required. The first floor elevation is to be two (2) feet above the base flood elevation. The certificate will be furnished by the land owner or builder and the permit fees will be as follows: $0.00 to $3,000.00 – $100.00 $3,000.01 to $15,000.00 – $100.00 for the first three thousand plus $10.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof. $15,000.01 to $100,000.00 – $150.00 for the first fifteen thousand plus $2.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof. $100,000.01 to $500,000.00 – $320.00 for the first one hundred thousand plus $1.00 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof. $500,000.01 to $1,000,000.00 – $720.00 for the first five hundred thousand plus 40 cents for each additional thousand or fraction thereof. $1,000,000.01 and over – $920.00 for the first million plus 15 cents for each additional thousand or fraction thereof.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Montgomery County building permits within the County's jurisdiction outside the City of Montgomery and Town of Pike Road police jurisdictions.
      “Non-flood prone permits cost $100.00 per structure”
    • Variable (with conditions) — Flood-prone building permits issued within Montgomery County's jurisdiction outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road.
      “The cost for flood-prone building permits is based on a sliding scale according to the cost of the structure.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building-permit process for structures over 200 square feet in the County jurisdiction outside the City of Montgomery and Town of Pike Road police jurisdictions.

    • A permit is required before construction begins.
    • The non-flood-prone fee is $100 per structure if construction begins within six months of issuance.
    • Flood-prone structures must comply with the Floodplain Prevention Ordinance effective December 16, 2025.
    • Flood-prone permit fees use a sliding scale based on structure cost.

    structure size threshold: > 200 square feet · non-flood-prone fee: 100 USD per structure (if construction is begun within six months of issuance)

    “A building permit for construction of any structure in excess of 200 square feet is required before construction begins within Montgomery County's jurisdiction, located outside the police jurisdictions of the City of Montgomery and the Town of Pike Road. The City of Montgomery's police jurisdiction extends 3 miles out from the city limit line. The Town of Pike Road's police jurisdiction extends 3 miles outside the town limit line. Non-flood prone permits cost $100.00 per structure if construction is begun within six months of issuance. Permits for construction of structures within flood prone areas must be built in accordance to The Montgomery County Floodplain Prevention Ordinance effective 12/16/2025. The cost for flood-prone building permits is based on a sliding scale according to the cost of the structure.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    The Montgomery County Planning Commission is authorized to adopt land-use/zoning regulations for the unincorporated area, and the county regulates subdivision development and minimum lot size outside municipalities.

    Montgomery County, AL - Property Development (Engineering) ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Alabama rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Alabama residential home-builder licensing exemption for an owner acting as the owner-builder; applicable in Montgomery County subject to local permitting and other requirements.

    • The owner must act as their own contractor and provide all material supervision.
    • The residence must be a one-family or two-family residence.
    • The residence must be on the owner's property and for the occupancy or use of the owner.
    • The residence must not be offered for sale.
    • The exemption is nontransferable, including to an agent through a power of attorney.
    • Sale or offering for sale within one year after completion is presumptive evidence that construction was undertaken for sale.
    • A homeowner who hires or compensates anyone to supervise the work is not acting as their own contractor.
    • Subcontractors hired by an exempt homeowner must be licensed if the cost of their portion exceeds $10,000.
    • This licensing exemption does not eliminate Montgomery County building-permit requirements or other local building laws and codes.

    residence type: one-family or two-family · sale timing: <= 1 year after completion (Sale or offering for sale is presumptive evidence construction was undertaken for sale) · subcontractor undertaking cost: > 10000 USD (Subcontractor licensing requirement)

    “The Home Builders Licensure Law provides an exemption for homeowners who build or improve their own residence for their own occupancy or use.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-builders constructing or improving one-family or two-family residences in Montgomery County under Alabama's residential home-builder licensing law.
      “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 Alabama property owner acting as the owner-builder for a one-family or two-family residence on the owner's property for the owner's 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.”
    • 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.”
    • Conditional — Owners building or improving one-family or two-family residences in Alabama for their 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”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

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

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

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

    “The State Building Code is limited to any new construction, addition, renovation, modification of mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems, sitework and generally any and all work on state-owned property and/or using state funds, on all public and private kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12) schools, on public postsecondary schools, on hotels/motels and on movie theaters. DCM's code jurisdiction over plans and specifications of all municipal and county-owned projects is limited to such projects meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards. DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    10 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State Building Code requirements administered and enforced by the Alabama Division of Construction Management for state-owned or state-funded construction, K-12 schools, public postsecondary schools, hotels and motels, movie theaters, and other work within DCM jurisdiction.
      “The State Building Code is limited to any new construction, addition, renovation, modification of mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems, sitework and generally any and all work on state-owned property and/or using state funds, on all public and private kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12) schools, on public postsecondary schools, on hotels/motels and on movie theaters. DCM's code jurisdiction over plans and specifications of all municipal and county-owned projects is limited to such projects meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards. DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    • Partial — Residential construction and improvements governed by the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Law, including ordinary residential construction beginning January 1, 2027.
      “The Alabama Residential Building Code shall be enforced by local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs for residential construction and improvements that are adhered to by residential home builders. The Alabama Residential Building Code shall not supersede any local residential building code adopted by any county or municipality in effect on January 1, 2027. [...] Beginning January 1, 2027, a residential home builder within this state who constructs, renovates, or repairs a residence or structure shall do so in accordance with applicable residential building code adopted pursuant to Section 34-14A-12 or, if applicable, the local jurisdiction’s residential building code.”
    • Partial — Construction within the Alabama Division of Construction Management jurisdiction, including state-owned or state-funded work, public and private K-12 schools, public higher-education institutions, hotels, motels, and movie theaters.
      “The 2021 International Building Code [...] DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    • Partial — Construction within the Alabama Division of Construction Management jurisdiction, including state-owned or state-funded property, public and private K-12 schools, public higher-education institutions subject to the stated ACCS limitation, hotels/motels, and movie theaters.
      “The State Building Code is limited to any new construction, addition, renovation, modification of mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems, sitework”
    • Partial — Residential building-code investigations by the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board involving contracts entered into on or after February 13, 2022, in Alabama cities and counties that have not adopted a residential building code.
      “In cities and counties that have not adopted a residential building code, the Board will apply the 2015 International Residential building Code (IRC)”
    • Partial — Alabama's statutory framework authorizing county commissions to adopt building laws and codes for unincorporated areas and recognizing municipal building laws or codes within municipal police jurisdictions.
      “The county commissions of the several counties are authorized and empowered to adopt building laws and codes by ordinance”
    • Partial — Residential construction and improvements statewide under the Alabama Residential Building Code framework.
      “The Alabama Residential Building Code shall not supersede any local residential building code adopted by any county or municipality in effect on January 1, 2027.”
    • Partial — Residential construction and improvements governed by Alabama's Home Builders Licensure Law, including construction in local jurisdictions without an already adopted residential building code.
      “Beginning January 1, 2027, a residential home builder within this state who constructs, renovates, or repairs a residence or structure shall do so”
    • Partial — Projects within the Alabama Division of Construction Management's State Building Code jurisdiction, including state construction and specified school, hotel/motel, and movie-theater projects; not ordinary residential property.
      “DCM does not have jurisdiction over residential property or commercial property except for hotels/motels and movie theaters.”
    • Partial — Residential construction in Alabama where a county or municipality has a permitting and inspection program or has adopted a local residential building code; this is not a uniform DCM residential-code jurisdiction.
      “The Alabama Residential Building Code shall be enforced by local jurisdictions”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Required DCM construction inspections, pre-construction conferences, and substantial-completion determinations for projects within the narrower DCM inspection jurisdiction.

    • DCM-required inspections are limited to state-funded construction, any project on state-owned property, public K-12 schools including charter schools, public universities, and ACCS projects with Notices-to-Proceed issued before August 1, 2021.
    • DCM's broader plan-review/code jurisdiction also includes private K-12 schools, hotels/motels, and movie theaters, but the official DCM jurisdiction page does not include those categories in its stated required-inspection list.
    • Inspections must be requested by the contractor in writing or by email to the design professional, who coordinates with the DCM inspector.
    • A permit fee must be paid before scheduling the required DCM pre-construction conference; inspection benchmarks, including periodic, special, final, and year-end inspections when applicable, must then be met.
    • Fully locally-funded public K-12 projects require DCM pre-construction conferences and inspections regardless of estimated construction cost.
    “Conducts required pre-construction conferences, inspections and substantial completions limited to state-funded construction, any project on state-owned property, public K-12 (including charter) schools, on public universities, and on ACCS projects with Notices-to-Proceed issued prior to August 1, 2021.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Residential construction and improvements in Alabama local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs.
      “The Alabama Residential Building Code shall be enforced by local jurisdictions that have permitting and inspection programs for residential construction and improvements”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

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

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

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

    “An updated list of subcontractors shall be furnished by the builder before the issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the municipality.”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Park models, defined by Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission Rule 535-X-11 as recreational park trailers, statewide.

    • The rule states that a park model is not a permanent dwelling and is for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
    • In an RV Park, park models may be installed or set up to the same standard as a travel trailer.
    • When not in an RV Park, the manufacturer's approved installation instructions must be complied with.
    • The rule does not expressly establish a general statewide authorization for permanent occupancy of motor homes or ordinary travel trailers outside an RV park.

    gross trailer area: <= 400 square feet or less in set-up mode (Measurements are taken on the exterior of the trailer; roofing overhang is excluded.)

    “A park model is not a permanent dwelling. It is temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

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

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

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

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

    Occupancy of any building used as a dwelling, including a tiny home on a foundation, statewide; no tiny-house-specific state rule was found

    • Dwelling must be provided with an approved sewage disposal system
    • Rule 420-3-1-.05 was repealed and replaced effective February 13, 2023; the 2017 requirement for 'appropriate toilet facilities' is not in the current text
    • Zoning, minimum size and building-code application are not addressed here and are left to local authorities; not established from state sources
    “no person shall occupy, rent, lease, sell, possess, or allow a building to be occupied as a dwelling or establishment unless said building is provided with an approved sewage disposal system.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

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

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

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

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

    Occupancy of any building as a dwelling, including an accessory dwelling, statewide; no ADU-specific state rule was found

    • Dwelling must be provided with an approved sewage disposal system
    • Rule 420-3-1-.05 was repealed and replaced effective February 13, 2023; the 2017 requirement for 'appropriate toilet facilities' is not in the current text
    • Whether ADUs are allowed is left to local zoning; not established from state sources
    “no person shall occupy, rent, lease, sell, possess, or allow a building to be occupied as a dwelling or establishment unless said building is provided with an approved sewage disposal system.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in unincorporated Montgomery County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Montgomery County
  • Setbacks — Building setbacks in unincorporated Montgomery County
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage requirements in unincorporated Montgomery County.
  • Building height — Building-height requirements in unincorporated Montgomery County.
1 more unanswered
  • Short-term rentals

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 Montgomery County, Alabama

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

Montgomery County scores 62/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and workable self-sufficiency basics: 52.6″/yr rainfall and 65.4% wooded land. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop and about 77,830 people within a 30-minute drive.

How much does land cost in Montgomery County, Alabama?

Land in Montgomery County runs about $3,146 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Montgomery County?

Montgomery County gets about 52.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 13.2% of years.

How remote is Montgomery County?

A representative private-land location has about 77,830 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,359,892 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 Montgomery compares in Alabama

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