We’re here to help you navigate the process of obtaining the necessary permits and inspections for your project. Whether you’re building a new home, making renovations, or starting a business, our team is dedicated to ensuring everything goes smoothly.
Our Services Include:
- Building Permits: Required for new construction, renovations, and some types of repairs.
- Inspections: To ensure your project meets safety standards and complies with local codes.
- Zoning Information: Guidance on land use regulations to help you plan your project.
The Inspection Services Department is responsible for plan reviews, code enforcement, issuing building permits and Certificates of Occupancy, and performing inspections on all building components. These components include structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, natural, and propane gas. The department also investigates public complaints.
Home Occupation Start-Up Guide
When Do I Need a Permit?
In the City of Gardendale, you will need a permit for various construction and renovation projects to ensure they comply with local building codes and regulations. Here are some common projects that require a permit:
Decks: A permit is needed for building a new deck or making significant modifications to an existing one, especially if it is attached to your home or elevated above the ground.
Fences: Installing a new fence or making substantial changes to an existing one typically requires a permit to ensure it meets height and setback requirements.
Pools: Whether you are installing an in-ground or above-ground pool, a permit is necessary to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
Roofs: Replacing or making significant repairs to your roof usually requires a permit to ensure that the work meets safety and structural standards.
It's always a good idea to check with the Gardendale Inspections & Permitting Department for any specific requirements or additional projects that may require a permit.
How Do I Get a Permit?
Obtaining a permit in Gardendale involves several steps to ensure your project complies with all local regulations:
Application: You should start by filling out a permit application form, which can typically be found on the city’s website or obtained from the Inspections & Permitting Department.
Documentation: Provide necessary documentation, including detailed plans or drawings of your project, property information, and any other required details.
Submission: Submit your completed application and documentation to the Inspections & Permitting Department, either in person or online if available.
Review: Your application will be reviewed by city officials to ensure compliance with local codes and regulations. This process may involve inspections or additional information requests.
Approval and Fees: Once approved, you will need to pay any applicable fees. After payment, your permit will be issued, allowing you to begin your project.
Inspections: During and after the completion of your project, you may need to schedule inspections with the city to ensure the work meets all safety and building standards.
For more detailed information or assistance, contact the Gardendale Inspections & Permitting Department directly.
Inspection Services also performs inspections and verifies zoning for the release of business licenses, both for new businesses and those changing locations within the city. The New Business Start-Up Guide has been created to assist in this process. Information is also provided for the Home Occupation business licenses.
An Alabama Home Builders License is required, as follows:
Unlimited Licenses
The UNLIMITED Home Builders License is unlimited in scope and allows the license holder to perform ALL residential construction activities including new residential construction, remodeling, repair, improvement, and re-improvement of a residence. This license also covers roofing.
Limited Licenses
The LIMITED Home Builders License is limited in scope. It allows the license holder to perform ONLY jobs involving a single trade that DOES NOT affect the structural integrity of the residence. Remodeling, repair, or improvement does not include working in a single trade that is licensed by a state agency, such as plumbing, electrical, HVACR, etc. when you are working within the scope of that license. A LIMITED license holder MAY NOT perform residential roofing in Alabama without holding a separate ROOFERS License.
Roofers Licenses
The ROOFERS License allows the license holder to perform ONLY residential roofing. Residential roofing is “installing products or repairing surfaces on the external upper covering of a residence or structure that seals, waterproofs, or weatherproofs the residence or the structure when the cost of the undertaking exceeds $2,500”.
If you or your company holds BOTH LIMITED and UNLIMITED and ROOFERS licenses, please note the following:
You cannot use both licenses on a single For example, you cannot use your ROOFERS license to perform residential roofing on a structure and then use your LIMITED license to perform an additional trade, such as flooring or painting, when the cost of the undertaking of the additional trade would be over $10,000.
If you perform work outside the scope of the license, you may be subject to fines, suspension, or revocation of your Home Builders License pursuant to Ala. Code 34-14A-8.
Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board (Residential)
(334) 242-2230
hblb.alabama.gov
Below are additional State of Alabama licensing boards:
Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure (AESBL)
(334) 264-9388
aesbl.alabama.gov
Alabama Electrical Contractors Board
(334) 420-7232
aecb.alabama.gov
Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board
(205) 945-4857
pgfb.alabama.gov
Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors
(334) 241-0840
hacr.alabama.gov