When is a Permit Required?

When do I need to obtain a building permit?

A building permit is required for ANY construction, installation, repair, replacement, or alteration costing more than $40,000. A permit is also required, no matter what the cost, if the work involves the addition, repair or replacement of load bearing members or structures, the addition of plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical wiring, devices, appliances, or equipment.

Any electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work requires a licensed trade professional.

It is always best to call Planning and Inspections to determine if a permit is required. We are happy to assist and would rather answer questions up front than find unpermitted work and issue violations.

What are some jobs that don’t require a permit?

Any non-structural/non-load bearing work up to $40,000 does not require a permit. Any electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work, regardless of permit status, requires a licensed trade professional. All work must meet the applicable NC Code, regardless of permit status. We encourage you to contact the Inspections Department to clarify if a permit is necessary to avoid time delays and fines.

Some common jobs that don’t need a permit include:

• Replacement of doors/windows, if they are in the same location, same size, and meet the proper DP rating for the applicable wind zone
• Replacement of plumbing equipment that does not change the size or capacity (such as a toilet). Also includes water and drain lines replacement of same size
• Like-for-like water heater replacement provided it remains in the same location, is the same size and is completed by a licensed contractor 
• Vinyl siding replacement up to $40,000
• Roofing replacement up to $40,000, provided no structural work is performed
• Repair of plumbing or electrical devices provided there is no addition or relocation of wiring or piping and work is completed by a licensed contractor (electrician or plumber)
• Landscaping, provided no fences are erected

I’m replacing my deck, do I need a permit?

Deck permits are required for any of the following:

• New decks or stairs
• Addition/replacement/repair of joists, railing systems, railing posts, or deck posts
• Addition/replacement/repair of footers
• Addition/replacement/repair of stair stringers or railings
• Addition of hot tub to deck

Deck permits are generally not required if you are simply repairing decking (walking surface boards), pickets, or stair treads, so long the repair is like-for-like and meets the applicable NC Code. We encourage you to contact Planning and Inspections to clarify if a permit is necessary to avoid time delays and fines.