Adverse Possession in Alabama
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Alabama requires 20 years of continuous, open occupation to claim adverse possession of land.
How Alabama treats Adverse Possession
Alabama follows the standard 20-year rule for adverse possession, during which the occupant must possess the property openly, exclusively, and continuously without the owner's permission. The adverse possessor's intent to claim ownership is presumed from the nature of the occupation itself. Payment of property taxes is not required in Alabama, though it strengthens a claim. The occupant must maintain actual possession throughout the entire 20-year period without significant interruption.
The general definition of Adverse Possession
Gaining legal ownership of land by occupying it openly and continuously for a set period.
If someone uses another person's land openly, without permission, and continuously for many years (typically 7–21 years depending on the state), they may eventually become the legal owner. The original owner must not have stopped them during that time. This doctrine rewards people who improve and maintain land while punishing owners who abandon or ignore their property.
Read the full Adverse Possession entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.