Decatur, AL Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Sec. 25-5 of the Code of Decatur, Alabama, reaches more than the building itself. Beginning excavation, storing building materials, erecting a temporary field office, or moving, altering, or repairing any structure without a permit is unlawful. The only carve-outs are repairs that do not change the character of the structure and cost no more than $1,000.00, and painting or wallpapering. Applications go to the building inspector on forms the city provides.

Sec. 25-6 requires a plan or plat drawn to scale showing the lot's shape and dimensions, the size and location of each building, existing and intended uses, and the setback and side lines of buildings on adjoining lots. The inspector approves plans only after examining them in detail, and a disapproval must be stated in writing on the application with the cause. A permit never waives any provision of the zoning chapter. Sec. 25-7 adds a certificate of occupancy before any new or altered structure is used.

Fees come from Chapter 7. Sec. 7-7 adds an issuance fee of $10 on paper forms or $5 on electronic applications. Sec. 7-57 charges $15 for the first $1,000 of valuation plus $5 per additional thousand up to $50,000, then steps down to $4, $3, and $2 per thousand in higher bands, with the permit fee capped at $200,000 per project. Work valued at $1,000 or less carries no fee unless an inspection is required, in which case the charge is $15 per inspection. Plan review adds 50 percent under Sec. 7-58. Sec. 7-57.2 adds $1 per $1,000 of construction on nonresidential permits, remitted to the Alabama Building Commission. Sec. 7-5 requires contractors to hold a Decatur business license and register with the building department.