Pelham Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Pelham Zoning Overview
Pelham is a suburban city in Shelby County south of Birmingham along the I-65 corridor. The citys development has been shaped by its position as a gateway community between Birmingham and points south. Pelham features a mix of residential subdivisions, commercial centers, and the Oak Mountain State Park which provides significant open space on the citys eastern boundary.
Key Zoning Districts
Pelham uses residential districts (R-1, R-2, R-3), commercial districts (C-1, C-2, C-3), and industrial districts (M-1). The citys zoning reflects its suburban character with an emphasis on planned residential communities.
ADU Regulations
Pelham permits accessory structures in residential zones under local ordinance. HOA restrictions are common in newer subdivisions.
Development Process
Development applications are reviewed by the Planning Commission. Building permits are issued through the Building Department.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Pelham
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Shelby 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
- Min Lot
- 10,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 30 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
- Min Lot
- 6,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 10 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
ADU Rules in Pelham
- 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
- 30-60 days
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Pelham are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Pelham permit fees →