Baldwin County Building Department | Permits, Inspections & Official Contact

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If you are planning any kind of construction, renovation, addition, deck, fence, roof replacement, pool, solar installation, or other building work in unincorporated Baldwin County, Alabama (including areas near Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Daphne, Fairhope, and Bay Minette), you will need a building permit from the Baldwin County Building Inspection Department.

Many homeowners and contractors search for clear answers about how to apply for a building permit in Baldwin County, what the fees are in 2026, and how to check the status of their application quickly using the CitizenServe online portal.

This guide explains the entire process in simple language so you can understand what to do, what to expect, and how to avoid common problems that slow things down.

Whether you are a homeowner doing your own work or a contractor handling a larger job, the steps are the same and the goal is to get your permit approved smoothly and on time.

Baldwin County Building Department Contact Information 2026

  • Address: 201 E. Section Avenue, Foley, AL 36535 (Main Permitting Office)
  • Phone: (251) 972-6837
  • Email: Permitting@BaldwinCountyAL.gov
  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM CST

Official Page: Baldwin County Building Inspection Department

201 E. Section Avenue, Foley, AL 36535

Official Portal: Baldwin County CitizenServe Online Portal

  1. Go to the CitizenServe portal (public search available).
  2. Search by property address or permit number.
  3. View the current status, approved plans, fees paid, and inspection history.

How to Apply for Baldwin County Building Permits 2026

Here is the clear step-by-step process that most people follow to get their permit approved as smoothly as possible.

  1. Go to the Baldwin County CitizenServe portal and create or log into your account.
  2. Start a new application and choose the right permit type for your project (residential or commercial).
  3. Enter the full project address and your best estimate of the total construction valuation.
  4. Upload all required drawings, site plans, specifications, and supporting documents.
  5. Pay the required fees online and submit the complete application.
  6. Check your account regularly and reply quickly if the department asks for more information or corrections.
  7. Once approved, display the permit card at the job site before any work begins.
  8. Schedule your inspections through the portal.

Baldwin County Building Permit Fees 2026

  • Official Fee Schedule: Download the current Baldwin County Building Department Fee Schedule (effective October 1, 2023 with updates).
  • Building permit fees are $3.00 per $1,000 of job valuation (minimum fee $75.00 for most permits).
  • No building permit plan review fees for many projects.
  • Separate fees apply for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and other trade permits.
  • Minor residential and agricultural driveway permits have no fees.
  • Commercial and major residential driveway permits are processed separately.
  • Work started without a permit can result in double fees plus possible fines or a Stop Work Order.

Required Documents Checklist

  • Completed online permit application via CitizenServe
  • Detailed construction drawings and specifications
  • Site plan showing existing structures and proposed work
  • Proof of contractor license and insurance
  • Owner-Builder Affidavit if you are doing the work yourself
  • Any required trade permit applications

How to Schedule Inspections in Baldwin County

Schedule inspections through the CitizenServe portal. Have your approved plans and the permit card ready when the inspector arrives. Re-inspection fees may apply for failed or missed inspections. An inspection must be scheduled within 180 days of permit issuance or the permit may expire.

Contractor Registration & Owner-Builder

Contractors must hold valid Alabama licenses and provide proof of insurance. Homeowners can apply as owner-builders but must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety.

Local Insider Tips That Really Help

  • Use the CitizenServe portal (BaldwinCountyAL.gov/CSP) to apply online, pay fees, track status, upload documents, and schedule inspections — it is the fastest method.
  • Submit complete and clearly labeled drawings the first time to avoid delays in plan review.
  • Call (251) 972-6837 during business hours (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM) for questions or status checks when lines are less busy.
  • Review the current fee schedule before submitting to budget accurately (building fees at $3 per $1,000 valuation with $75 minimum).
  • Schedule inspections promptly — permits expire if no inspection is requested within 180 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for existing building permits in Baldwin County?

Use the CitizenServe portal by property address or permit number.

How to apply for a Baldwin County building permit?

Create an account on the CitizenServe portal, select the right permit type, upload your drawings and documents, pay the fees online, and submit everything electronically.

What are the Baldwin County building permit fees in 2026?

Building permit fees are $3.00 per $1,000 of job valuation (minimum $75.00). No plan review fees for many projects. Download the latest fee schedule for exact rates.

Can I pull my own permit as an owner-builder in Baldwin County?

Yes. Owner-builders can apply but must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Baldwin County?

Simple projects can be approved relatively quickly with complete online submissions. More complicated jobs usually take between one and three weeks depending on how complete your submission is.

Official Resources

Updated April 2026 using only official Baldwin County sources. Use the CitizenServe portal for online applications, payments, and real-time tracking.

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