How to get a Permit in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores, Alabama is a growing community that is working hard to meet the needs that come with an expanding population. To keep everything organized in Gulf Shores, the citizens need to know where to get the various kinds of permits within the city limits. There are specific places where residents can go to get building, business and burn permits that will make your activities within the city limits legal.

Building Permits

Since Gulf Shores is a beachfront community, it requires certain special kinds of permits for building activities. As a rule, the city of Gulf Shores utilizes the International Building Codes of 2009 and requires structures to be able to withstand winds up to 140 miles per hour.

The Gulf Shores Building Department is where building permits can be procured and you can contact the Building Department at 251-968-1142 for more details. Commercial building permits cost $5 for every $1,000 of building valuation, while residential permits cost $4 per every $1,000 of value. You will need your flood zone information as well as building plans to get a permit. Anyone looking to build beachfront property will need to place an ad in the local newspaper and then allow 30 days for a review of the property before a permit will be approved. Click here to find local contractors.

Business Permits

Gulf Shores business permits are required for every business operating within the city. Every permit expires on December 31st, regardless as to when it was originally purchased, and must be renewed on January 1st. If a business does not renew its permit by January 1st, then that business will be subject to penalties and fines.

The Gulf Shores Revenue Department handles all business certificates. If you have questions about getting a business permit in Gulf Shores, then you can call the Revenue Department at 251-968-1120.

Burn Permits

The city of Gulf Shores has very specific rules when it comes to fires within the city limits. Fires on the public and private beaches in the area are prohibited. There is also a city-wide ban on open fires, such as the kind associated with barbeque grills, on balconies.

Businesses may buy burn permits from the Gulf Shores Fire Marshal at a cost of $50.00 per permit. Residents can apply for burn permits from Gulf Shores Fire Station 1 at no cost. Anyone with questions about burn permits can reach the Fire Marshal and Fire Station 1 at 251-968-7422.