Birmingham, Alabama City Guide
Birmingham, Alabama is the largest city in the state and the county seat of Jefferson County. Founded in 1871 during the Reconstruction era, it grew rapidly as a center of iron, steel and the railroads — earning the nickname “The Magic City” for its remarkable early growth, and “The Pittsburgh of the South” for its industrial might.
Today the city is a diverse metropolitan hub whose economy has shifted from heavy industry toward medicine, banking, higher education and technology, anchored by the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Its landmarks — from historic stadiums and auditoriums to an antebellum house museum — reflect both that industrial heritage and the city’s central place in the history of the American Civil Rights Movement.
This guide brings together Birmingham’s departments, public services, contacts and landmarks in one place. Use the directory below to find the office or information you need.
- Mayor's Office The city's executive branch and Office of the Mayor.
- City Council Nine districts, ordinances and meeting schedule.
- Municipal Court Traffic citations, court dates and payments.
- Economic Development Business support, jobs and investment.
- City Jobs Finding and applying for city employment.
- Police Department Contact, non-emergency number and divisions.
- Police Contacts Precinct and division phone numbers.
- City Jail How and where detainees are held.
- Police Records Requesting reports and records.
- Fire & Rescue Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service.
- Building Permits Permits, inspections and how to apply.
- GIS & Zoning Maps City maps, parcels and zoning data.
- Parks & Recreation Parks, centers and programs.
- Legion Field The historic “Old Gray Lady” stadium.
- Boutwell Auditorium Downtown civic auditorium and venue.
- Arlington Home & Gardens The city’s antebellum house museum.
- Fairgrounds The former fairgrounds, now the CrossPlex.
Quick Reference — Key City Contacts
| Emergency | 911 |
|---|---|
| Police (non-emergency) | 205-328-9311 |
| Fire Administration | 205-254-2052 |
| Municipal Court | 205-254-2161 |
| City Hall / Mayor’s Office | 710 North 20th Street |
Frequently Asked Questions
What county is Birmingham, Alabama in?
Birmingham is the county seat of Jefferson County and the largest city in the state of Alabama.
How do I contact a city department?
Each section of this guide lists the relevant department’s phone number, address and official resources — see City Government and City Services above, or the individual topic pages.
What is the police non-emergency number?
The Birmingham Police Department non-emergency line is 205-328-9311. For any emergency, call 911.
Why is Birmingham called “The Magic City”?
The nickname reflects the city’s rapid growth after its 1871 founding, when iron, steel and the railroads turned it into a booming industrial center almost overnight.