Before Submitting a Permit
Permit requirements - Find out what documents, plans, and approvals are needed before you can apply for your permit.
- Permits are required for all new construction, demolitions, remodel, and alterations.
- City of Tuscaloosa Business License
- Site plans, drawings, renderings, or a description of the work to be permitted.
- View Material Standards & Zoning Requirements for work within the City of Tuscaloosa.
- Unsure of your Zoning?
- View Material Standards & Zoning Requirements for work within the City of Tuscaloosa.
You may also need - Learn about additional permits or approvals that might be required depending on your project type or location.
- A Land Development Permit for projects adjacent to Lake Tuscaloosa. Or, a Site Stabilization Plan for projects within the watersheds of Lake Tuscaloosa, Harris Lake, or Lake Nicol.
- Contact the Office of the City Engineer at ocemail@tuscaloosa.com or (205) 248-5380 for more information.
- For projects within a Historic District, additional regulations may apply.
- Unsure if your property is Historic?
- Contact Planning & Zoning at hpc@tuscaloosa.com or (205) 248-5100 for more information.
- For a demo-and-rebuild project, be sure to complete a "Demolition" permit as well as a "New Construction" permit.
What to expect - Understand the steps in the review process, typical timelines, and how we’ll communicate with you.
- All permits are reviewed for compliance with the 2021 ICC Codes
- Permits are processed digitally and reviewed for code compliance and accuracy.
- Review times vary but most residential permits are processed within 24 to 48 hours.
- Initial comments on commercial permit applications are provided via email typically within 10 business days.
Permit fees - Get an overview of how fees are calculated, what they cover, and when payment is due.
Fees are calculated during the permit review process and are due prior to permit issuance. You will be notified of any fees via invoice with a secure link to complete payment online. Checks and cash are also accepted in person during regular business hours.
Residential | Commercial |
|---|---|
Building Permit Fee = (Building Valuation /1000) x $3.50
| Building Permit Fee = (Building Valuation /1000) x $12.21
|
Additional Water and Sewer Fees may apply - Learn more about Water & Sewer Service Fees
Updated September 19, 2025
After Receiving a Permit
Use the Contractor Portal - Access your permit, upload documents, track progress, and manage inspections through our online portal.
Make sure you're registered on the BluePrince Contractor Portal
Be sure to select "Tuscaloosa" as your jurisdiction.
Through the portal you can:
View Approval Status and Comments
Pay Invoices
View and Request Inspections
Request Inspections - Learn how to schedule required inspections, what to prepare for, and how to get results.
- Inspections can be requested through the BluePrince Contractor Portal or directly through our website for non-portal users.
Project Completion - Find out what’s needed to close out your permit, including final inspections and documentation.
- Complete all required inspections.
- Submit a Subcontractor Revenue Form to revenueoffice@tuscaloosa.com.
- Request a Certificate of Occupancy.