Before You Build in Bessemer, AL: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Bessemer's zoning ordinance (Appendix B) regulates fence height in all zoning districts. Residential zones typically limit front yard fences to lower heights than side or rear yard fences. A zoning or building permit is required.

Bessemer requires building permits for fence construction. The Building Department reviews applications for compliance with the zoning ordinance. The minimum permit fee is $26. All contractors must have a current Bessemer business license.

Alabama has no shared-cost fence statute. Each Bessemer property owner is responsible for their own fencing. Boundary disputes are civil matters. Fences must meet zoning setback requirements.

Bessemer requires building permits for pool construction through the Building Department. The city enforces the 2015 IBC suite. Electrical, plumbing, and fencing inspections are required. All contractors must have a Bessemer business license.

Bessemer follows the Alabama building code (IBC/IRC-based) requiring a minimum 48-inch barrier around all outdoor pools. Jefferson County may impose additional requirements. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching at 45+ inches above grade.

Above-ground pools in Bessemer must comply with the same 48-inch barrier requirements as in-ground pools. Building permits are required for permanent installations. All barrier standards from the adopted building code apply.

Garage conversions in Bessemer require a building permit. The city enforces the 2015 IBC suite. Converting a garage to living space must meet building code requirements for habitable rooms. Off-street parking requirements under the zoning ordinance must still be met.

Bessemer's zoning ordinance does not explicitly permit ADUs in residential zones. Alabama has no statewide ADU mandate. Jefferson County guidance suggests ADUs may be limited to 200 sq ft in unincorporated areas, but Bessemer's specific rules depend on zoning district.

Bessemer's Zoning Ordinance (Appendix B) treats carports as accessory structures. Per Sec. 8.6, accessory structures may be built in a rear yard but cannot occupy more than 30% of the required rear yard and must be at least 5 ft from side and rear lot lines. Per Sec. 8.3, accessory structures are not allowed in any required front yard.

Bessemer requires building permits for structures exceeding approximately 200 sq ft. Smaller sheds that do not serve as living space may be exempt from permits but must comply with zoning setbacks. The minimum permit fee is $26. All contractors need a Bessemer business license.

Open burning is prohibited in Jefferson County from April through October by JCDH. During permitted months, JCDH approval is required. Bessemer falls under Jefferson County's air quality regulations managed by the JCDH Air Pollution Control program.

Bessemer enforces the International Fire Code for recreational fires. Fires under 3 ft diameter and 2 ft height are permitted with 25 ft clearance from structures. Approved containers require 15 ft clearance. All fires must be constantly attended.

Bessemer does not have a comprehensive tree protection ordinance. Tree removal on private property is generally permitted. Trees on public property or in rights-of-way require city approval. Significant land clearing may require site plan review under the zoning ordinance.

Bessemer regulates tree maintenance through its nuisance and property maintenance provisions. Trees that obstruct public rights-of-way or pose hazards may be subject to city action. Private property tree maintenance is largely the owner's responsibility.

Bessemer's water is supplied by the Bessemer Utilities water system. During drought conditions, mandatory conservation measures may be imposed. Alabama has no permanent statewide water use restrictions for landscaping.