The City of Fairhope Planning Department has recently become aware of fraudulent emails being sent to applicants. These scams involve individuals impersonating Planning Department, Planning Commission, or Board of Adjustment staff in an attempt to solicit payments for permits, reviews, or related services. Some of these emails may appear legitimate by using staff names or city-related images.

To protect yourself, please review the following important information:

How to Identify a Scam Email

Fraudulent emails may include:

• Requests for payment through email or online links
• Attachments or links that appear suspicious
• Urgent or unusual language encouraging immediate action
• Sender email addresses that are misspelled or do not end in an official City of Fairhope domain (fairhopeal.gov)
• Requests for payment by wire transfer, gift cards, or other non-standard methods

Official Payment Procedures

• All Planning Department payments must be made in person at 451 Pecan Ave, Fairhope, AL 36532.
• The City of Fairhope will never request or accept payments through email, text message, or online links sent directly to you.
• Any message asking for payment outside the in-person process is fraudulent.

If You Receive a Suspicious Email

• Do not click links or open attachments.
• Do not send any payment or personal information.