Annexation
State law provides two methods by which cities can annex property that is contiguous with its existing limits:
- by an annexation referendum
- by petition of the owners of all the land proposed for annexation
The City of Huntsville primarily uses the latter method, which requires the following procedure:
The property owner presents the Planning staff a copy of the recorded deed for the property to be annexed as well as deeds for any parcels of land previously sold from the tract, and a plat of the property if available. If the property is determined by staff to be contiguous with the existing city limits, they prepare a petition for annexation, which must be signed by all of the property owners and notarized.
The Planning staff then prepares an ordinance for annexation of the property and places it on the agenda of the City Council for introduction. The annexation ordinance is considered and voted on at the next regular meeting of the council. The annexation takes effect on the date of its publication in the Huntsville Times. There is no fee for annexing property.
ANNEXATION APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
In order to petition for annexation with the City of Huntsville, the applicant must complete the following:
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- Contact Planning staff to verify property eligibility for annexation. Property must be contiguous with the current city limits and meet regulations set forth by all City of Huntsville departments in order to begin the annexation process.
- Annexation application with original signatures. No copies or e – signatures accepted.
- A copy of a recorded property deed verifying ownership.
- A legal description or survey, if available.
- Articles of organization or legal documentation, if exercising authority on behalf of an entity, organization, or power of attorney.
