General Information
Location and Hours of Operation
Frequently Asked Questions
Inspector Information
Zoning Ordinance
Zoning Committee Agenda
Board of Zoning Adjustment Agenda
Location, Contact Information, and Hours of Operation:
Zoning Administration is located at 308 Fountain Circle in the Annex Building, next to the GIS Department. We are directly across the plaza from the Administration Building (City Hall).
Office Phone Number: (256) 564-8008
Office Fax Number: (256) 564-8031
Zoning Administration is open from 7:30am - 5:00pm. The Inspectors are in the office from 7:30am to 8:15am and again from 3:30pm to 4:30pm.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the function of Zoning Administration?
The Zoning Administration enforces the zoning ordinance for the City of Huntsville. We are responsible for issuing sign permits and approving zoning on residential and commercial building permits and privilege licenses. Also, Zoning Administration processes variance applications to present to Huntsville's Board of Zoning Adjustment.
What is the difference between Zoning Administration and the Inspection Department?
Zoning Administration is a newly developed division of the Planning Department and has assumed the zoning functions from the Inspection Department. We enforce the Zoning Ordinance and make zoning interpretations for the City of Huntsville. Approval from the Zoning Administrator is the first step in the building permit process. Customers applying for a building permit must receive approval from the Zoning Administrator before proceeding to the Inspection Department to continue the building permit process. Zoning Administration and the Inspection Department are working hand in hand to make the building permit process as customer friendly as possible.
Where can I view the Zoning Ordinance?
The Zoning Ordinance is available online. Simply click the link to access the ordinance.
Do I need a permit for an accessory structure?
Yes. Accessory structures must be in the rear yard, at least five feet from the side and rear property line, off any easements that may be on the property, and cannot be over two stories. The accessory structures must be at least ten feet from any other structure including the main house. Plumbing in accessory structures is limited to one commode and one lavatory. On corner lots, accessory structures must meet the required secondary front yard setback. The secondary front yard setback may be obtained by called Zoning Administration at (256) 564-8008.
How are the setback lines measured?
Setback lines are measured from actual property lines.
When do I need a building permit?
A building permit must be obtained if the cost of the material and labor for such work is in excess of $250 or if structural changes or improvements are involved in any amount. Painting, wallpapering, fencing, and floor covering are exempt from permitting.
NOTE: For information regarding properly licensed contractors, building codes, and inspections, please refer to the Inspection Department website.
Inspector Information:
Harris Mitchell, Senior Sign Enforcement Officer (256) 564-8017
Johnnie Dodson, Sign Enforcement Officer (256) 564-8018
Jeff Pearce, Senior Zoning Enforcement Officer (256) 564-8016
Wayne Lamon, Zoning Enforcement Officer (256) 564-8041
