AL HB281

Aggrieved parties must file a written notice of appeal with the zoning board within 15 days after the board's final decision, specifying which decision is being appealed.

The appellant must then file the appeal with the circuit court in the county where the board convenes within 45 days after the final decision and serve the board with a copy at the city clerk's office.

The board must submit to the circuit court a certified copy of meeting minutes and all documents related to the appealed case within 45 days of being served with the appeal, unless the court grants an extension.

Circuit court review is conducted de novo (a fresh review without deference to the board's decision), and appellants requesting a certified transcript of proceedings must pay the transcript costs.

The board's decision remains in effect during the appeal unless the circuit court grants a stay, which requires consideration of the appellant's likelihood of success, potential irreparable injury, impact on parties, and public interest.

The act becomes effective October 1, 2025.