Codes, exemptions & field inspections
This guide translates the available agency record into a preconstruction checklist for structural scope, minor work, and inspection release. The adopted code and the issuing official control when a field condition is disputed.
Regulatory framework
Effective July 1, 2026 for unincorporated Mobile County: 2024 International Building, Residential, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fuel Gas, Swimming Pool and Spa, and Existing Building Codes; 2023 National Electrical Code; Alabama Energy and Residential Codes Board energy codes; and Mobile County amendments. The permit request also requires compliance with the 2015 Alabama Energy Code.
Inspection lane
Submit the building permit request and supporting plans through Mobile County’s Electronic Plan Review system or contact Inspection Services at (251) 574-3507. Permit requests received after 4:00 PM are processed the following business day. The adopted code requires staged inspections before concealment, including foundation, framing, trade rough-ins and final; a Certificate of Occupancy or Completion is required before permanent utility connection.
Minor-work playbook
Mobile County states that almost all residential and commercial work requires a permit. Published exceptions include painting, redecorating, changing countertops, installing new cabinetry, replacing light fixtures or ceiling fans, and replacing equipment that requires no rewiring; fences seven feet or less; one-story detached unconditioned Risk Category I storage sheds or playhouses up to 200 square feet meeting the code’s utility, flood-zone and exposure restrictions; and qualifying private sidewalks and driveways.
Field rule
A permit exemption generally addresses one narrow construction trigger. It does not automatically waive zoning, land-use, floodplain, shoreline, fire, energy, electrical, utility, septic, or right-of-way requirements. Obtain written confirmation when the project involves a new structure, structural alteration, change in occupancy, or concealed work.
Inspection pipeline
Request with lead time
Submit the building permit request and supporting plans through Mobile County’s Electronic Plan Review system or contact Inspection Services at (251) 574-3507. Permit requests received after 4:00 PM are processed the following business day. The adopted code requires staged inspections before concealment, including foundation, framing, trade rough-ins and final; a Certificate of Occupancy or Completion is required before permanent utility connection.
Preserve access
Do not cover framing, reinforcement, wiring, piping, damp-proofing, or life-safety work until the required inspection has been completed and documented.
Close the record
Retain the approved plans, inspection approvals, correction responses, and final certificate or occupancy release with the property file.
Contractor verification
Use the state licensing system to verify active registration, trade credentials, bond status, and liability coverage where available. Match the legal business name to the proposal and permit application.
Planning reference
A building permit is only one part of statutory compliance. Check the local zoning, ordinance, map, or land-use reference before finalizing setbacks, height, lot coverage, access, drainage, or accessory structure placement.
Open planning reference ↗Source trail
Use these direct agency or licensing links to confirm current instructions before you file, pay, or schedule work. External pages control if their information differs from this directory.
Project questions
Mobile County Inspection Services Department is the identified county-level authority for this profile. Confirm that the property is in its service area before filing.
Begin with the online permit gateway listed in the application guide. If the portal does not recognize the address or project type, contact (251) 574-3507; inspections@mobilecountyal.gov; permit requests: permits@mobilecountyal.gov.
Allow 5-10 working days for residential and commercial plan review. Commercial applications require a $100 plan-review fee at submittal; approved plans are then permitted.
Submit the building permit request and supporting plans through Mobile County’s Electronic Plan Review system or contact Inspection Services at (251) 574-3507. Permit requests received after 4:00 PM are processed the following business day. The adopted code requires staged inspections before concealment, including foundation, framing, trade rough-ins and final; a Certificate of Occupancy or Completion is required before permanent utility connection.
Effective July 1, 2026 for unincorporated Mobile County: 2024 International Building, Residential, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fuel Gas, Swimming Pool and Spa, and Existing Building Codes; 2023 National Electrical Code; Alabama Energy and Residential Codes Board energy codes; and Mobile County amendments. The permit request also requires compliance with the 2015 Alabama Energy Code. Mobile County states that almost all residential and commercial work requires a permit. Published exceptions include painting, redecorating, changing countertops, installing new cabinetry, replacing light fixtures or ceiling fans, and replacing equipment that requires no rewiring; fences seven feet or less; one-story detached unconditioned Risk Category I storage sheds or playhouses up to 200 square feet meeting the code’s utility, flood-zone and exposure restrictions; and qualifying private sidewalks and driveways.
Field sequencing matters
Code compliance is not only a plan-review exercise. Footings, reinforcement, framing, fireblocking, wiring, piping, insulation, weather protection, and life-safety systems each have points where the work must remain accessible. Build the inspection calendar into the trade schedule instead of treating it as a final administrative step.
When a project qualifies for a narrow minor-work exemption, keep a written explanation of why it qualifies and confirm that related zoning, utility, fire, energy, or environmental rules do not create a separate approval requirement.
Closeout file
Keep the approved plan set, inspection approvals, correction responses, contractor license verification, final certificate, and any occupancy release together. A clean record protects the owner, builder, lender, insurer, and future buyer.