Building Safety in Bessemer, AL (2026)
3 verified building safety rules for Bessemer, Alabama, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Building Permits
Bessemer adopted the 2015 International Building and Residential Codes but deleted every standard exemption for work not needing a permit, per City Code Section 18-32(1). Starting work before a permit issues triggers a penalty plus a doubled permit fee under Section 18-6.
When Bessemer Requires a Building Permit
Some RestrictionsBessemer Code of Ordinances §§ 18-6, 18-32
When work for which a permit is required by this chapter is commenced prior to the obtaining of a permit, the permit applicant shall be required to pay a penalty, as provided by section 18-9, plus a double permit fee. ... (1)105.2. Delete section 105.2 of the 2015 International Building Code and any other sections dealing with work exempt from permits.
Electrical Permits
Bessemer has adopted the 2011 National Electrical Code by reference, and Sec. 18-60 bars anyone without a certificate of competency or apprentice registration from wiring in the city. Electrical contractors must post a $5,000 bond with the city clerk and treasurer and hold a license before taking on work, and permit fees run through the clerk's fee schedule under Sec. 18-72.
Bessemer Electrical Permits and NEC Adoption
Some RestrictionsBessemer Code of Ordinances §§ 18-59, 18-62, 18-72
Sec. 18-59. - Adoption. The 2011 edition of the National Electric Code compiled by the NFPA is hereby adopted by reference pursuant to Code of Ala. 1975, § 11-45-8 and is incorporated as is set out and fully herein. ... Sec. 18-62. - Same—Bond; license required. Before any person shall engage in the electrical business within the city limits he shall qualify as set forth in this article and pos...
Plumbing Permits
Bessemer adopts the 2015 International Plumbing Code by reference under Sec. 18-122, with a local amendment to section 605.3 requiring listed, fire-rated piping for underground fire service mains in the city. Sec. 18-123 leaves plumbing permit and construction fees to the fee schedule the city council keeps in the city clerk's office.
Bessemer Plumbing Permits and Code Adoption
Some RestrictionsBessemer Code of Ordinances §§ 18-122, 18-123
Sec. 18-122. - Adoption. The 2015 edition of the International Plumbing Code, published by the ICC is hereby adopted by reference pursuant to Code of Ala. 1975, § 11-45-8 and is incorporated as is set out and fully herein with the following modifications, amendments and additions to the below sections: (1)605.3. Amend section 605.3(1) as follows: Section 605.3 Water service pipe. That no pressu...
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