Applications & Schedules

Applications Submission Overview

Contact and next steps

Planning & Development Department
402 Lee Street NE, Decatur AL 35601
Phone: (256) 341‑4720
Email: Planning@decatur-al.gov
Before you submit: Review your application checklist requirements, confirm fees, schedule a predesign meeting if applicable, and prepare both paper and electronic sets.

What to submit(Typical)

• Paper and digital copies required: Provide one paper set and one electronic set (PDF or DOCX).

• Core documents: Completed application form; letter of authorization or designation of agent if the applicant is not the owner; property deed; signed application.

• Plans and plats: Engineer or licensed surveyor prepared and sealed where required; sheet size no larger than 24" × 36".

• Supporting reports: Stormwater, utilities, soils, floodplain, or other technical reports as required by the application.

• File quality: Large files may need USB or file‑share; email attachments over 25 MB may not be accepted.

Process timing and attendance(Typical)

• Pre‑application meeting: Strongly recommended and required for some applications.

• Public notice: You may be required to allow a sign on the property and to provide owner/adjacent owner information for notices.

• Attendance: The applicant or designated agent must attend required Planning Commission or Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) hearings.

• No work until approved: Do not begin grading, construction, or site work until all approvals, permits, and recordings are complete.

• Approval window: Some approvals (e.g., plats) are effective for a limited period (commonly 12 months); confirm on the specific form and with the Planning Department.