Apply for Building Permits

Single family homes include detached homes, duplexes (two family), and townhouses. View the residential plan check list. To permit a new single family home:

• Apply for a building permit here.
• Upload the plans and a scaled proposed plot plan
• Include all contractors' license information

We will verify contractors' licenses, review the plans, and ensure compliance with the Town zoning ordinances. Reviews usually take two weeks. You will be notified when your permit is ready.

The North Carolina Residential Building Code requires plans to be compliant with the State Energy Code requirements.

Certificates of occupancy for single-family homes require a site inspection by the Planning and Development Services Department staff. For questions about site inspections, call 311 or (919) 469-4000.

As-Built Surveys

Town ordinances require a sealed foundation survey for all new single family home permits if construction is within 5 feet of a setback line, easement, or buffer. A sealed final survey may also be required if porches or decks not shown on the foundation survey are within 5 feet of a setback line, easement or buffer. Sealed surveys need to be prepared by a land surveyor registered in North Carolina.

For more information, please visit our dedicated "as-built" survey page.

Additional Site Approvals

Additional site approvals and environmental permits for residential projects (ex. floodplain, stream buffer impacts, erosion control for land disturbance) may be required in addition to a building permit. 

Scheduling Inspections

• Schedule online
• Call 311 or 919-469-4000 weekdays from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Inspection Day

• Visit Who’s My Inspector? to find your assigned inspector and cell phone number.
• Call your inspector between 7 and 7:30 a.m. to get an ETA or discuss time restrictions.

*** All final inspections must be scheduled via phone by calling 311 or 919-469-4046.

To view your inspection results, visit our Click2Gov Portal and click on "Select Permit" at the left side menu. 

 Inspection results will appear the same day as the inspection was conducted.  Our staff makes it a priority to enter inspection results as promptly as possible following the inspection.

For questions about your inspection results, please contact your inspector directly.

Contact:

For assistance please contact 311 or (919) 469-4000 to speak with a citizen advocate or contact your inspector directly by using our Staff Contacts.

Setbacks and Impervious Surface Limits

Each lot will have unique setbacks due to the unique nature of its shape, proximity to natural buffers, easements, and zoning district.  

 Impervious surface limits (when applicable) are also unique to each lot.

For questions about setbacks or impervious surface limits for your lot, please contact our residential plan review team. 

Variances and Director's Modifications

For more information on Variances or Director's Modifications, please visit our dedicated page.