Windows and Doors Permit Requirements in Mobile, AL

AL 2015 IRC statewide minimum.

By Joey, Founder · Last verified March 29, 2026 · How we research →

Population: 201,367 Code: 2015 Verified: 2026-03-29 2 local rules

When you don’t need a Window & Door permit in Mobile

Exempt·Rule 1

Replacing windows or doors in existing openings of the same size does not require a permit.

SourceCity of Mobile Code / 2015 IRC with AL amendments

When you need a Window & Door permit in Mobile

Required·Rule 1

Enlarging an existing window or door opening requires a building permit.

Estimated Fee$100 – $350
Typical Timelineabout 2 weeks
SourceCity of Mobile Code / 2015 IRC with AL amendments

Windows and Doors Permit Costs: Mobile vs. Nearby

Mobile runs higher than average for Alabama. Expect $100 – $350 versus the state average of $73 – $267.

CityEstimated Fee
Mobile $100 – $350
Huntsville $100 – $350
Birmingham $125 – $350
Montgomery $100 – $350

Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all Mobile permit costs →

Zoning & HOA Considerations

HOA Communities

If you live in an HOA community: hOAs in some communities regulate exterior window styles, frame colors, and door designs. Changing window types or adding new openings may require architectural review approval.

Estimated Project Timeline in Mobile

Here's a typical timeline for a windows and doors project in Mobile, AL:

Week 1
Get quotes & finalize design
Contact licensed contractors, get 3+ quotes, finalize project scope and drawings (plan drawings required).
Week 2
Prepare permit documents
Contractor prepares site plan, construction drawings, and permit application. Gather required documents per your city's checklist.
Week 3
Submit permit application
Your contractor submits the application to Mobile's building department, apply online here.
Week 4-5
Plan review & approval
Typical processing time in Mobile: about 2 weeks. Plan review examiner checks drawings for code compliance.
Week 6+
Construction & inspections
Post the permit card on site. Work begins. Schedule inspections at required stages (varies by project). Final inspection required before closing the permit.

Timeline is based on Mobile's typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.

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Building Department Contact

NameBuild Mobile Department
Address205 Government St, 3rd Floor, Mobile, AL 36602
HoursMon/Tue/Thu/Fri 8am-3pm; Wed 8am-1pm

Frequently Asked Questions

Estimated permit fees for Windows and Doors projects in Mobile, AL range from $100 – $350. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.

It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Windows and Doors projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.

Working without a required permit in Mobile can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.

Typical approval time for Windows and Doors permits in Mobile is about 2 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.

If you live in an HOA community, you may need architectural review approval in addition to a building permit. HOA rules and city building codes are separate, you may need to satisfy both. Review your CC&Rs and submit to your HOA's architectural review committee before starting work.

Learn More About Windows and Doors Permits

Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.

Read Windows and Doors Guide →

Estimate your permit fees →

Disclaimer: This information was last verified on 2026-03-29. Building permit requirements may change. Zoning requirements (setbacks, lot coverage, height limits) are separate and vary by location. Always confirm with your local building and planning departments before starting your project. PermitMint provides general guidance, not legal advice.