Mobile, AL Accessory Structures: ADU Rental Restrictions (2026)

Mobile does not have a permissive, by-right rental ADU framework comparable to California ADU law. Under the Mobile Unified Development Code (Chapter 64), an ADU is a use subordinate to the principal dwelling, cannot be sold separately, and historically cannot be operated as a short-term rental (lodging under 30 days). Long-term rentals of an ADU as a separate tenancy depend on the underlying zoning - districts that permit two-family dwellings allow it, while standard single-family residential districts treat ADU rental to unrelated parties as a non-conforming two-family use that may require a variance or rezoning. Short-term rental operations citywide are governed by the Mobile Code of Ordinances: (1) Business license required under Code Chapter 34; (2) Collection and remittance of City of Mobile lodgings tax on gross room receipts; (3) Mobile County lodgings tax; and (4) Alabama state lodgings tax of 5 percent administered by the Alabama Department of Revenue. The underlying zoning use category must also permit transient lodging, which is generally restricted to commercial and certain mixed-use districts in the UDC. Operators should consult Build Mobile and the Planning Department before listing. Properties in homeowners' association communities face separate covenant restrictions.