5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 4 cities in Jefferson County, Alabama.
Verified from official government sources
Unincorporated Jefferson County's zoning resolution limits accessory dwellings. ADUs may be limited to 200 sq ft in the county. Alabama has no statewide ADU mandate. The county's Comprehensive Plan (Forward Together) may influence future ADU policy.
Jefferson County requires building permits for accessory buildings in unincorporated areas including additions and storage buildings. Sheds under approximately 200 sq ft may not require a permit but must comply with zoning setbacks. All permits are available through ePermitJC.
Garage conversions in unincorporated Jefferson County require a building permit from Development Services. The conversion must comply with adopted building codes and the zoning resolution. Off-street parking requirements must still be met after conversion.
Jefferson County requires building permits for carports. Setback requirements: typically 5 feet side, 10 feet rear. Counts toward maximum lot coverage. HOAs in Hoover and Mountain Brook often restrict carports.
Jefferson County treats foundation-built tiny homes as standard dwellings under the 2018 IRC. Birmingham zoning requires minimum 400 sq ft (IRC Appendix Q allows under 400). Tiny homes on wheels classified as RVs, prohibited as permanent residences.
4 cities in Jefferson County have their own accessory structures rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for Jefferson County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Jefferson County Ordinance Hub →