Permit Requirements for Selma, Alabama

For Plumbing projects in Selma, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Dallas County.

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

Most jurisdictions require permits for Plumbing work to ensure safety and code compliance. The governing body responsible for issuing these permits varies by specific location:

Within City Limits: The Selma Building Department typically oversees all local building, trade, and safety permits.
Unincorporated Areas: Properties located outside of official city boundaries are generally governed by the Dallas County Building & Safety Division.
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General Plumbing Guidelines

Permits are usually required for new installations, structural modifications, or major repairs. While minor maintenance or cosmetic updates may be exempt, landowners should always verify local codes before work begins.

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Because Selma is located within Dallas County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:

Alabama, Dallas County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Dallas County, Alabama Plumbing Permit Requirements

Plumbing permit requirements in Dallas County, Alabama, are primarily handled by county health departments for properties in unincorporated areas. The State Board of Health and/or county boards of health establish the rules and regulations for plumbing installations outside of municipal corporation jurisdictions. The county health departments are responsible for the inspection and approval of such work.

For general construction and development activities in unincorporated areas of Dallas County, a Development Permit may be required. This permit covers various activities including construction, grading, floodplain development, and on-site sewerage facilities. It is a separate permit that must be applied for individually.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

In Alabama, plumbing work follows a sequence that includes permit application, assignment to a licensed contractor, rough-in inspection, finish inspection, and final approval. For areas outside of municipal corporations, the county health departments are responsible for the inspection and approval of plumbing installations. This means that for properties in unincorporated Dallas County, you will likely need to coordinate with the Dallas County Health Department for plumbing permit and inspection processes.

When applying for permits in Alabama, it's crucial to identify the correct permitting authority, which will be the county for unincorporated areas. Site plan requirements may also apply, especially in rural areas, and may include details on property boundaries, existing and proposed structures, driveway access, distances to property lines, septic or sewer areas, and flood or drainage features. Septic system compliance is particularly important in rural areas and requires confirmation with local health officials.

Licensed contractors are essential for plumbing work in Alabama. Only licensed plumbing contractors can legally pull permits. Property owners should confirm the active license status and appropriate license class of any contractor they engage.

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The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Alabama:

Alabama Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Plumbing Codes and Legislation in Alabama

Alabama does not utilize a single, mandatory statewide building code for all construction. Instead, building regulation is largely handled at the local level, with cities and counties choosing whether to adopt and enforce specific codes. However, the state does maintain standards for certain projects and professional licensing.

For projects under the jurisdiction of the Alabama Division of Construction Management (DCM), the state has adopted the 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC). Additionally, the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board mandates that certified plumbing contractors comply with the 2021 International Plumbing Code for commercial installations and the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) for residential plumbing installations, particularly in the absence of locally adopted codes.

Primary State Boards and Agencies

Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board: This board is responsible for the statewide licensing, examination, and regulation of plumbers and gas fitters under the authority of the Alabama Plumbing and Gas Fitters Act (Code of Alabama § 34-37).
Alabama Division of Construction Management (DCM): Part of the Alabama Department of Finance, this division adopts and enforces building codes (including the IPC) for state-owned or state-funded projects.
Local Building Departments: In most jurisdictions, local municipal or county building departments are responsible for administering permits, conducting inspections, and enforcing the specific codes adopted by their local governing bodies.
Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH): This agency oversees regulations regarding private sewage disposal systems and well connections.

Resources to Learn More

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