Alabama § 16-20-6 - When Title Acquired by Adverse Possession.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 16-20-6 — When Title Acquired by Adverse Possession., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-20-6. When Title Acquired by Adverse Possession.
When a person is in possession of any sixteenth section lands under color of title, and has been in such possession for more than 20 years prior to the first day of May, 1908, and neither the state, nor any department thereof, holds any note, bond, obligation or other contract of anyone for the purchase money of such land, and the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Director of Finance shall so certify, and the Attorney General shall certify that proof of adverse possession, by the person now in possession, or coupled with his predecessor in possession, for 20 years prior to May 1, 1908, under color of title, has been made, which proof is satisfactory to the Attorney General. The Governor must cause a patent to issue to said land under the seal of the state to the person entitled thereto. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, if the Attorney General is satisfied with the proof of color of title for 20 years prior to 1908 by the person now in possession or coupled with his predecessors in said color of title, the Attorney General shall not require affidavits of adverse possession for the period prior to 1908, except in cases of boundary line disputes, to establish said adverse possession.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 16-20-6
What does Code of Alabama § 16-20-6 cover?
Section 16-20-6 ("When Title Acquired by Adverse Possession.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 16-20-6?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 16-20-6" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 16-20-6 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.