Frequently Asked Questions

The City has adopted a comprehensive set of building codes that must be followed on construction projects within the City. These building codes govern structures' design, construction, alterations, and maintenance. Building codes establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the building's occupants' health, safety, and welfare. The permitting process is designed to allow the City to ensure that work complies with the building codes.  It also allows the City to ensure that contractors working in the City are properly licensed. 

Stop Work Orders are issued by the City of Pelham when work is ongoing that does not conform to the City’s Code of Ordinances. The most common reason for a Stop Work Order being issued is for ongoing construction work not being properly permitted. The reason a Stop Work Order was issued on your property is listed on the Order. 

For new construction, the City charges a permitting fee. In response to large-scale events such as a tornado or a flood, the City will often waive all permitting fees. 

You can find information about obtaining a permit in several ways:

• Call the Building Department at 205.620.6409, and a member of the Building Department staff can walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
• Email any questions to the Permit Technician.