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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Mobile County, AL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Operators must obtain a City of Mobile business license and display the license number on all advertisements. Requirements include a 24/7 local responsible party, minimum $1,000,000 liability insurance, and compliance with building/fire codes (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers, and egress windows).

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Apply for a City of Mobile business license for short-term lodging, providing proof of $1M liability insurance and owner authorization. 2. If required by zoning, submit a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application to BuildMobile with a $500 fee, site plan, and neighborhood meeting documentation. 3. Pass a safety inspection by a licensed home inspector (single-family) or City fire/building inspector (multi-family) prior to license issuance.

Official Resources

Official Mobile County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Mobile County, AL?
Operators must obtain a City of Mobile business license and display the license number on all advertisements. Requirements include a 24/7 local responsible party, minimum $1,000,000 liability insurance, and compliance with building/fire codes (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers, and egress windows).
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Mobile County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Mobile County. 1. Apply for a City of Mobile business license for short-term lodging, providing proof of $1M liability insurance and owner authorization. 2. If required by zoning, submit a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application to BuildMobile with a $500 fee, site plan, and neighborhood meeting documentation. 3. Pass a safety inspection by a licensed home inspector (single-family) or City fire/building inspector (multi-family) prior to license issuance.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Mobile County?
1. Apply for a City of Mobile business license for short-term lodging, providing proof of $1M liability insurance and owner authorization. 2. If required by zoning, submit a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application to BuildMobile with a $500 fee, site plan, and neighborhood meeting documentation. 3. Pass a safety inspection by a licensed home inspector (single-family) or City fire/building inspector (multi-family) prior to license issuance.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction