Jefferson County, AL Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

Section 504, 'Residential Typical Density and Layout Parameters,' sets the baseline density table for the county's residential zoning districts. Subsection 504.02 layers a density bonus on top of that table: a development may earn up to a 10% increase in allowed density for 'certain eligible criteria,' and multiple bonuses can stack up to a combined maximum of 20% above the base. Any density bonus requires approval from both the Planning & Zoning Commission and the County Commission, and the bonus applies on top of, not in place of, the maximum dwelling units or square footage otherwise allowed by the underlying zoning district.

The Resolution lists four qualifying actions. First, donating land or dedicating a conservation easement to a non-profit conservation agency for environmental conservation or public recreation, above and beyond any open space already required. Second, providing Common Space beyond the minimum already required specifically for parks or recreation, with the density increase scaled 'proportionate to the increase above minimum Common Space prescribed.' Third, using Green Building Techniques that meet the International Code Council's Green Construction Code, LEED Silver certification or higher, or a similar standard. Fourth, extending a Jefferson County sewer line one linear mile or more beyond what Section 1203.03 already requires of the development. A separate provision immediately following 504.02, reducing minimum lot size, setback, and frontage for residential lots adjacent to parks, is a distinct incentive, not part of the density-bonus criteria itself.