FAQ: NORTH CAROLINA PERMITTING
Many home improvement projects require you to get a permit before starting the project: tearing down a building, adding a plumbing system in some buildings, and, in some cases, the addition of a shed or barn. Permits allow the city or county to inspect your property and make sure the building will be safe and well constructed for occupants. They’re also looking to help protect your property values and the values of your neighbor’s property.
It’s better to get a permit before beginning alterations because, if you decide to sell down the road, the project will have to be permitted and inspected before the sale can close– meaning finished work may need to be undone to properly inspect the project.
Added costs of not getting a permit from your city or county can include:
Citations
Increased cost for obtaining a permit, including fines, fees, additional service fees, and court costs
Potential home hazards
Removal of work at your expense
And the refusal of your homeowner’s insurance to cover issues as they arise that occur due to non-permitted construction
WHERE DOES GETTING A PERMIT FALL IN THE SHED BUYING PROCESS?
When you decide you need a backyard shed, the process of choosing and purchasing the shed may seem daunting. However, if you break the process down into steps, it becomes much more manageable.
The first step is to pick out an in-stock shed or design a custom shed. This can be done by browsing Poole’s Buildings online catalog or by working with a sales staff member to create a unique design.
Once you have selected your shed, the next step is to discuss your options and finalize the purchase with a Poole’s Buildings sales representative.
Finally, you will need to obtain the necessary permitting paperwork from your local municipality.
With careful planning and execution, the process of buying a backyard shed can be quick and hassle-free.
WHEN A PERMIT IS NEEDED
For any accessory building, such as a shed, with any dimension exceeding 12 feet, The North Carolina State Building Code requires that a permit be issued, though a 12’x12’ shed doesn’t normally need a permit. Each county or local municipality manages this process differently and with varying fee structures.
HOW TO APPLY FOR A PERMIT
Every municipality handles the permit process differently. But, there are some basics. The first step is to fill out the application. Most often the permitting process is done through the county or city if you are in the city
limits of a medium to a large city.
When filling out the application, there may be documents requested. If so we are there to help facilitate the process and make it as smooth as possible.
HOW LONG DOES THE PERMIT PROCESS TAKE?
It depends, some permits can be issued at the same time (within an hour) of application submittal and others can take up to a week or so.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Again, this depends. There is usually an application fee that typically ranges from $50 – $150 and an additional charge based either on the square footage of the structure or on the price of the building. These are our
estimates only and we recommend checking with your local officials prior to purchasing an accessory structure.
WHO APPLIES FOR THE PERMIT?
The homeowner applies for the permit. Much of the information is specific to the homeowner’s property. Poole’s Buildings LLC can usually provide the necessary building construction
schematics (plans) at no additional charge unless “site-specific” Engineered drawings are required. We are also happy to address any questions your Inspections Department has regarding these plans.
WHAT IF MY SHED IS 12’X12’ OR SMALLER?
Normally building permits are not required, but some local municipalities still require a “zoning” permit. Usually, this only requires a site plan and fee. This is more likely in older downtown areas or historic districts.
DO I HAVE TO GET A PERMIT?
Poole’s Buildings LLC does not require that you get a permit, we simply advise customers when they are required and how to get one. The permit responsibility is the sole responsibility of the customer.
It is the responsibility of the homeowner to obtain all necessary Homeowners Association approval and to check with their local permitting office to see if a permit is required. Different cities and counties have
different requirements that must be taken into account when applying for a permit.
DO YOU NEED A PERMIT TO PUT AN ALREADY BUILT SHED ON YOUR PROPERTY?
You may need a permit to put an already built shed on your property in NC, depending on the size and location of the shed.
In addition, the way the shed is going to be used is also important.
If you plan to use your shed for storage, hobby work, or as a workshop, you may not need to obtain a permit.
However, if you intend to use the shed as an office space or guest house, you may need to obtain the appropriate permits from your local zoning department.
Please check with your local municipalities before purchasing a pre-built shed.
To obtain a permit, you will need to submit an application to your local building department. Once your application has been approved, you will be able to proceed with putting the shed on your property.