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Huntsville Zoning & Land Use Guide

Last updated: Verified:

Key Zoning Facts

Planning Department
City of Huntsville Planning Department(256) 427-5100
Building Code Edition
2021 International Building Code
ADUs Allowed
Yes
Primary District
R-1A Single-Family Residential
Max Height
35 ft

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Huntsville

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Alabama

  • Building Code: 2021 IBC (Alabama Building Commission)
View Alabama zoning overview

County — Madison County

  • Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning

City / Municipal

The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
  • Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.

Primary Zoning Districts

District CodeNameMin LotMax HeightFront SetbackSide SetbackRear SetbackFAR
R-1ASingle-Family Residential15,000 sq ft35 ft35 ft10 ft30 ft
R-2Multi-Family Residential7,500 sq ft50 ft25 ft10 ft20 ft
C-2General BusinessNone50 ft10 ft0 ft10 ft

ADU Rules in Huntsville

ADUs:Allowed
Max Size
800 sq ft
Max Height
25 ft
Rear Setback
5 ft
Side Setback
5 ft
Parking
1 off-street space required
Owner Occupancy
Required
Permit Timeline
30-45 days
Full ADU rules for Huntsville

Official Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build an ADU in Huntsville?
Huntsville allows accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones subject to local regulations. Contact the Planning Department for current requirements on size limits, setbacks, and owner occupancy.
How do I find the zoning for my property in Huntsville?
Use the City of Huntsville's online GIS zoning map or contact the Planning Department at (256) 427-5100.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Huntsville?
Multi-family housing is allowed in R-2, R-3, and higher-density residential districts, as well as in mixed-use zoning districts within the city.