Building Codes & Regulations

FOR APPLICATIONS RECEIVED ON OR AFTER MARCH 5, 2025

The Baldwin County Commission approved the latest Code Adoption with Resolution # 2025-067 on March 5, 2025. As of that date, the following building codes and regulations are enforced:

• 2024 International Building Code (IBC) - with amendments
• 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) - with amendments
• 2024 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
• 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC) - with amendments
• 2024 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
• 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) - with amendments
• 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) - with amendments
• 2025 Baldwin County Building Code Modifications

For further details or specific code interpretations, please contact the Baldwin County Building Department.

FOR APPLICATIONS RECEIVED BETWEEN MAY 21, 2019 AND MARCH 4, 2025

The previous Code Adoption was approved by the Baldwin County Commission under Resolution # 2019-075 on May 21, 2019, and later amended under Resolution # 2020-119 on October 6, 2020. The following codes and regulations were enforced between the dates of May 21, 2019 and March 4, 2025: 

• 2018 International Building Code (IBC) - Note: Section 903.2.9 Group S-1 amended October 6, 2020
• 2018 International Residential Code (IRC)
  
• 2018 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
• 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC)
• 2018 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
• 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
• 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC)
• 2018 Baldwin County Supplemental Code for Residential Construction - amended October 6, 2020

The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions that include product evaluation, accreditation, technology, training, and certification. The Code Council's codes, standards, and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable, and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

All residential new construction and new additions shall require structural plans that have been prepared, signed, dated, and stamped by a design professional who is licensed by the State of Alabama.

Exceptions: Detailed non-engineered construction plans may be accepted for small additions, alterations/repairs, accessory structures, storage buildings, pole barns, porches, decks, etc.

All non-residential construction requires construction plans to be prepared, signed, dated, and stamped by both an Alabama licensed architect AND engineer.

The Baldwin County Commission has also adopted and enforces the following ordinances and resolutions:

• Baldwin County Floodplain Development Ordinance (refer to the Flood Zone Information section for more info)
• Baldwin County Beach and Dune Protection and Management Regulations, Resolution 2015-011 (refer to the Coastal Area Program section for more information)
• Planning & Zoning Ordinances & Regulations (contact the Planning and Zoning Department for more info)

Other Helpful Links:

• Building Department Fee Schedule
• Re-Roofing Permit & Inspection Info
• Safety Barrier Guidelines for Residential Pools