Built-in outdoor kitchens in Mobile require permits through Build Mobile: a building permit for the structure, a gas-line permit for natural-gas or stationary LP-gas connections, an electrical permit, and a plumbing permit for sinks. Structures must comply with Mobile UDC (Chapter 64) accessory-structure setbacks and Gulf Coast hurricane wind-load requirements. The Alabama-adopted IRC, NEC, IPC, and IMC apply through Code Chapter 11.
Build Mobile (Permitting & Inspections Division) administers outdoor kitchen permits under the Alabama Building Commission-adopted International Residential Code, National Electrical Code, International Plumbing Code, and International Mechanical Code, all referenced through Code of Ordinances Chapter 11 (Buildings). A building permit is required for the masonry counter, structural slab, and any roofed pergola or pavilion. The Mechanical Code requires a permit for natural-gas line extensions to a built-in grill served by Spire Energy, including a final pressure test before the utility restores service. The Plumbing Code requires a plumbing permit for any new sink, hose-bib, or ice-maker line connected to the MAWSS-supplied domestic water. The Electrical Code requires an electrical permit for outdoor GFCI outlets and lighting, which must be rated for damp/wet locations. Stationary propane tanks larger than 5 gallons require additional review under IFC Chapter 61 (LP-Gas). Outdoor kitchens must comply with the Mobile Unified Development Code (Chapter 64) accessory-structure setback rules - typically modest side/rear setbacks in residential districts, with greater setbacks for roofed structures. Roofed outdoor kitchens count toward lot coverage. Mobile is in a Gulf Coast hurricane region, so roofed pavilions over outdoor kitchens must meet the Alabama Building Commission high-velocity wind-load amendments. Properties in Mobile's locally designated historic districts require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Architectural Review Board for visible installations. HOA architectural review applies in master-planned communities.
Building an outdoor kitchen without required permits violates Code Chapters 11 and 64 with stop-work orders from Build Mobile and after-the-fact permit fees. Unpermitted gas-line work is particularly serious - Mobile Fire-Rescue can order shutdown and Spire Energy can disconnect service. Daily fines accrue under the city's general penalty provisions.
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