Accessory Structures in Bessemer, AL (2026)
2 verified accessory structures rules for Bessemer, Alabama, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Bessemer's zoning ordinance bars accessory structures from containing living quarters unless the Board of Zoning Adjustment approves it. A garage apartment or backyard cottage is unlawful by default until the board signs off on the specific plan.
Bessemer ADU / Garage Apartment Rules
Significant RestrictionsBessemer Code of Ordinances, Appendix B (Zoning) § 1.6(5)
(5)Every building hereafter erected or structurally altered shall be located on a lot as herein defined and in no case shall there be more than one main building and one main use on one lot. Accessory structures shall not include living quarters; neither will sanitary facilities or separate electrical services be permitted in accessory structures without the approval of the Bessemer Board of Zo...
Shed & Carport Rules
Bessemer allows sheds and other accessory structures in the rear yard, but caps them at 30 percent of the required rear yard area and requires at least a 5-foot setback from every side and rear lot line.
Bessemer Shed and Accessory Building Rules
Some RestrictionsBessemer Code of Ordinances, Appendix B (Zoning) § 8.6
Sec. 8.6. - Rear yard modifications.(1)Accessory structures may be built in a rear yard, but such accessory structures shall not occupy more than 30 percent of the required rear yard space and shall not be closer than five feet to any side or rear lot line.
Looking for Jefferson County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Bessemer city rules.
Accessory Structures in Jefferson County →