Permits are required for all construction activities covered by the Prattville Building and Development Codes (Chapters 26 and 105, Code of Ordinances of the City of Prattville). Residential (one and two family) developments require a basic application and review following the process listed below. Commercial, industrial and multi-family projects follow the process detailed in Commercial Projects.

The Fire Department, Division of Codes and Standards and the Planning Department jointly enforce the adopted building codes. Construction plans are accepted for review and permits issued by the Planning Department. Inspections are also scheduled through the Planning Department. Inspection services are provided by the Division of Codes and Standards. Inquiries regarding the building code or the inspection process may be directed to planning@prattvilleal.gov or buildinginspector@prattvilleal.gov.

Adopted Building and Related Codes

The City of Prattville building code can be found in Chapter 105 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Prattville. Building construction and alteration must follow these standard codes:

• 2009 International Building Code
• 2009 International Residential Code
• 2009 International Existing Building Code
• 2009 International Fire Code
• 2009 International Plumbing Code
• 2009 International Mechanical Code
• 2009 International Fuel Gas Code
• 2009 International Property Maintenance Code
• 2008 National Electrical Code, NFPA 70

Copies of the standard codes are available for review in the Planning Department offices at 102 West Main Street. Full copies of the codes may be obtained from the International Code Council or the National Fire Protection Association.

Chapter 105 contains several local amendments adapting the standard codes to local conditions. Local amendments are contained in Section 105-24.

Local building official's interpretation or guidance (more coming after the 1st of the year)

The following policy memorandums have been issued as interpretation or establishment of local policy

• Retaining Walls
• Protection of refrigeration lines near roof decking
• Temporary Toilet Facilities and Construction Dumpsters
• Safety glazing window panels adjacent to windows
• Termites
• Structures

Permit Applications and Fees

Request for building and related permits are submitted on forms/applications provided by the Planning Department.

Fees are charged on all buildings, structures, electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems or alterations requiring a permit. Fees are calculated based on the schedule established by Section 105-26 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Prattville.

Inspections

All building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas and zoning inspections are scheduled through the Planning Department.

• Request for inspections received before 5:00 p.m. will be scheduled for the next business day.
• If received before 10:00 a.m., the following inspections will be completed in the same day requested:
  • foundation footing,
  • slab/foundation,
  • plumbing foundation, and
  • sewer tap/replacement.

To schedule an inspection, call (334)361-3613 or e-mail scheduleinspection@prattvilleal.gov. Inspections requested by e-mail or voice-mail are not scheduled unless confirmed by telephone or e-mail response by Planning Department personnel.

The following information is required when requesting inspections by telephone or by e-mail:

• Job address
• Contractor business name
• Inspection type
• City permit number
• Contact name and telephone