SB442 Alabama 2012 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Roger Bedford, Jr.
Democrat
Session: Regular Session 2012
Title: Recreational park trailers, defined, construction standards, third party inspection required of manufacturer, inspection by manufacturer's association or third party inspection program, approval by State Fire Marshal
Summary: SB442 requires recreational park trailers sold in Alabama to meet ANSI A-119.5 construction standards and pass independent third-party inspections, with oversight by the State Fire Marshal.
What This Bill Does
It defines what a recreational park trailer is and sets size limits (width no more than 14 feet and area not exceeding 400 square feet in setup mode). It requires trailers sold in Alabama to be built to ANSI A-119.5 standards and verified through independent third-party plant inspections; manufacturers can use the ANSI seal if they are in compliance through the Recreational Park Trailer Industry Association. If a different third-party program is used, it must be approved by the State Fire Marshal. Trailers that meet these requirements are not mobile homes and are not regulated by the Manufactured Housing Commission.

Who It Affects
Recreational park trailer manufacturers and distributors selling in Alabama, who must build to ANSI A-119.5 and arrange for independent third-party inspections (or use an approved program) to demonstrate compliance.
Consumers and buyers of recreational park trailers in Alabama, who will purchase trailers that meet standardized safety and size requirements and have independent inspection certification.

Key Provisions
Definition and size limits: A recreational park trailer is defined as a transportable unit no wider than 14 feet, built on a single chassis, designed for seasonal or temporary living with utilities, and not exceeding 400 square feet in setup mode when built to ANSI A-119.5.
Construction and inspection requirement: Trailers sold in Alabama must be built to ANSI A-119.5 standards; compliance can be demonstrated through independent third-party plant inspections, and manufacturers eligible to bear the ANSI seal via the Recreational Park Trailer Industry Association (RPTIA) are recognized as compliant.
Alternative inspections: If a manufacturer uses another third-party inspection program, that program must be approved by the State Fire Marshal.
Regulatory status: Trailers meeting these requirements are not considered mobile homes and are not regulated by the Manufactured Housing Commission.
Effective date and repeal: The act takes effect immediately after passage and governor’s approval, and any conflicting laws are repealed.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Motor Vehicles