ADU Rules in Alabama (2026)
ADU rules in Alabama — no statewide ADU law. Regulation is entirely local. Key provisions and city-specific frameworks for accessory dwelling units.
Law Name
Preempts Local Ordinances
No — local rules may be stricter
Has State Law
No — regulation is local
Statewide Preemption Status Unconfirmed
No statewide preemption statute was confirmed for this jurisdiction — regulation is local. Local governments retain full authority to set their own rules.
Local Control Framework
Alabama does not have a statewide ADU law as of 2026 · Source
ADU regulation is left entirely to local municipalities · Source
Alabama Code Title 11 grants municipalities broad authority over zoning and land use · Source
Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile set their own local ADU and accessory dwelling rules · Source
Alabama has no statewide housing preemption law requiring municipalities to allow ADUs · Source
Many Alabama municipalities do not explicitly permit ADUs in residential zones · Source
Source: Alabama Local Zoning Authority. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source