Yes, building permits are required for Signs, Billboards and Communication Towers. 

No, there are no Zoning requirements outside of the Building Code requirements (exception, the 5-mile radius around the Madison county Executive Airport noted below).

Zoning requirements generally give guidance on zones/areas where these types of structures can be built including specific architectural features. 
Within Madison County, IF the proposed structure is built/erected a minimum of 5-feet inside of your property line (measured from the outer most point of the structure/sign, to the nearest property line(s)), THEN it may be acceptable pending the issuance of a Sign, Billboard, or Communication Tower permit. 

Our office asks you to be considerate of:

• FAA & ADEM regulations,
  • If building within a 5-mile radius of the Madison County Executive Airport, this supplemental document shall be include within your permit application documents. MCEAA Zoning Permit Application
• the signage density,
• interference/obstruction of traffic signage or signaling,
• interference with driver’s plain-of-view and/or are distracting
  • signs over 25-foot tall are generally outside of a driver’s plain-of-view for most areas within Madison County

Currently, there are no permits necessary for minor maintenance, temporary banners, sign facing replacements, etc.

If there are any further questions, please email inspection@madisoncountyal.gov

Please refer to these documents for additional details and submission requirements to obtain this type of permit:

1. Submittal Checklist and Information - Sign, Billboard & Communication Towers
2. Permit Application – Sign, Billboard and Communication Tower Permit