Move a Mobile Home in Alabama
Relocating a mobile home in Alabama requires much more than a simple truck hookup and drive. The entire process demands meticulous planning, multiple permits and strict compliance with state and county regulations.
The cost of moving your mobile home can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more based on distance and size. Many homeowners find this process challenging. This piece guides you through every aspect – from state permits and county-specific requirements to placement fees for new lots. Your mobile home’s journey, whether across town or to a different county, needs careful planning. Let us help you navigate each step to make your transition easier.
Mobile Home Moving Service Request Form
We move mobile homes. No need to search for mobile home moving companies any longer! Fill out the form below!Understanding Alabama’s Mobile Home Moving Permit
Let’s head over to Alabama’s permit requirements for moving your mobile home. Here’s everything you need to know about the paperwork and regulations
State-level permit requirements
You’ll need to get a moving permit from your county official before transport begins. The permit costs $10.00 for each manufactured home. Each permit stays valid for fourteen calendar days. The county will ask for proof of paid property taxes and current registration fees before issuing your permit.
County-specific documentation needed
Each county has its own set of documents you need when asking for a permit. You must provide:
- Proof of ownership (tag, decal, bill of sale, or title)
- Current registration fee payment confirmation
- Property tax clearance documents
It also requires lienholders to notify the county registration official within 10 days of moving the home.
Special permits for oversized homes
Larger mobile homes come with extra requirements to keep transportation safe. Here are the size limits and what you need:
- Maximum dimensions allowed: 16′ wide x 16′ high
- Homes over 12′ wide require:
- One front escort
- One rear escort OR an approved lighting system
The approved lighting system needs two flashing lights that people can see for 360 degrees at 500 feet. These lights should be mounted six feet above ground level on the rear corners. On multi-lane roads, escorts must move behind the mobile home.
Note that moving without proper permits can lead to a Class C misdemeanor and at least a $50.00 fine. We suggest working with AMHC licensed manufacturers, retailers, or certified installers who know these requirements well.
Legal Requirements and Documentation
Legal Requirements and Documentation
You need to get your paperwork sorted out to move a mobile home in Alabama. Here’s what you’ll need to know about the required documents.
Property tax clearance requirements
The first thing to check is your property tax status. Alabama law won’t issue any move permits without proof that you’ve paid your taxes or cleared registration fees. Your manufactured home registration deadline is October 1st, and it becomes overdue after November 30th. You’ll face a $15.00 late fee plus interest that can’t be waived.
Insurance and liability coverage
While Alabama law doesn’t require mobile home insurance, you should seriously consider getting coverage. If you’re financing your home, most lenders will require it anyway. A typical policy has:
- Protection for personal property
- Coverage for the home’s structure
- Coverage for accidents or injuries
Alabama Mobile Home Required Inspections and Certifications
The Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission (AMHC) controls all mobile home transportation. Only AMHC-licensed manufacturers, retailers, or certified installers can prep a home to move.
An AMHC inspector must check your home’s condition before the move. This check will make sure:
- Nothing will fall off during transport
- Your home can travel safely without damage
- The home will reach its destination safely
You’ll get a decal good for ten days after passing inspection. Keep in mind that some counties might need extra local inspections or certifications. Older mobile homes must pass safety inspections to meet current standards.
County-Specific Regulations in Alabama
Each Alabama county follows its own set of rules for mobile home relocation. We’ll help you understand these different requirements to ensure you move smoothly
Variation in permit costs by county
Most counties charge $10.00 for a moving permit, with some variations in different areas. To cite an instance, Mobile County sets a fee of $11.25 per manufactured home. The permits stay valid for fourteen calendar days, whatever county you’re in.
Local zoning requirements
Counties have substantially different zoning regulations. Jefferson County allows mobile homes only in:
- A-1 and R-6 zoning districts
- Mobile home parks and subdivisions
Mobile County takes a different approach with no zoning restrictions in unincorporated areas. You’ll need to submit:
- Property ownership documentation
- A detailed plot plan showing the home’s location
- Proper setback measurements
- Property ownership documentation
Alabama Impact fees and setup regulations
Setup regulations need multiple department approvals. Jefferson County requires coordination with:
- County Health Department for septic approval
- Environmental Services for sewer systems
- Development Services for final permits
Most counties need property tax clearance. Your mobile home’s value determines the property tax amount, which serves as an ad valorem tax.
The Revenue Commission office handles registration when you place homes on personal property. The Probate office manages your registration if you rent land.
Note that missing registration or current decals can lead to penalties and citations. You should check with your specific county office since requirements and fees may vary based on your location and situation.
Working with Licensed Mobile Home Movers
The right mobile home mover plays a vital role in ensuring a safe and legal relocation. Let me walk you through the process of finding and working with qualified professionals in Alabama.
Finding certified transporters
Alabama law allows only specific categories of transporters to move manufactured homes:
- AMHC licensed manufacturers
- AMHC licensed retailers
- AMHC certified installers
- Federally certified motor carriers
The AMHA website serves as your best starting point with its list of trusted manufactured home retailers. These professionals will help you connect with reputable moving companies near you.
Required credentials and insurance
Your chosen mover needs to have these significant credentials:
- General liability coverage
- Motor truck cargo insurance
- Workers’ compensation
- Proper bonding
Note that transporters must give AMHC a 72-hour notice before any scheduled transport. This timing allows proper inspection and documentation processing.
Verification of state compliance
The Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission keeps strict oversight of mobile home transportation. Certified installers must verify these three conditions:
- All components are secured to prevent falling during transport
- The unit can travel safely without damage
- The home can be delivered and disconnected safely at its destination
The AMHC inspector will check the unit and issue a decal valid for ten days after meeting these conditions. Transporters need to display this decal near the unit’s back center where enforcement officials can easily spot it.
Interstate moves require compliance with federal regulations by checking the mover’s U.S. DOT number. This step becomes especially important when you have manufactured homes that must meet different standards based on thermal zones, roof load zones, and wind zones.
Conclusion
Moving a mobile home in Alabama needs you to pay attention to several requirements. Your property taxes must be up to date and you’ll need to clear all registration fees before moving. The cost typically runs between $1,000 and $5,000, and you might need to pay extra fees specific to your county when setting up your home on a new lot.
Each county has its own rules about mobile home placement. The standard moving permit costs $10.00 in most counties, though this fee varies in some areas. Your home’s placement will depend on local zoning laws, so checking your county’s specific regulations is crucial.
Safety is vital during the entire moving process. Licensed AMHC professionals will give a proper handling of your manufactured home while following state regulations. These certified movers know how to secure components, manage escort vehicles, and follow proper lighting requirements.
The moving permit remains valid for fourteen days after you receive it. Early planning helps avoid delays that can get pricey and keeps all documentation current – from property tax clearance to insurance coverage. Starting the process early gives you time to work with county offices, schedule inspections, and get the permits you need for a smooth move.
FAQ
Q1. Is it possible to move a mobile home on your own in Alabama? No, it’s not legal to move a mobile home yourself in Alabama. State regulations require that you work with a licensed, bonded, and insured professional moving company that is certified by the Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission (AMHC).
Q2. What are the key requirements for transferring ownership of a mobile home in Alabama? To transfer ownership of a mobile home in Alabama, you need to provide a bill of sale, title or MSO, VIN inspection form (if applicable), government-issued ID, tax certificate, and lien release (if any). Both owners must be present to sign the title application unless their names are joined by “or”.
Q3. Are there any restrictions on moving older mobile homes in Alabama? While there’s no specific age limit for moving mobile homes in Alabama, the condition of the home is crucial. An AMHC inspector must verify that the home can be safely transported without damage. Some moving companies may have their own policies regarding older homes.
Q4. What are some common issues that can occur when moving a mobile home? Common problems during mobile home relocation can include damage to underbelly insulation and mechanicals, broken windows, stress cracks on inner walls, and in rare cases, frame breaks. Working with certified movers can help minimize these risks.
Q5. How much does it typically cost to move a mobile home in Alabama? The cost of moving a mobile home in Alabama can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on factors such as distance, size of the home, and county-specific fees. Additional costs may include permits, inspections, and setup fees at the new location.