Building a New Townhouse

Before Submitting an Application

Detailed code review will not begin until application submittals have been deemed complete by customer service staff. It is important that all required information is submitted for a project and it is the applicant’s responsibility to be informed on the prerequisites below: 

1. Obtain a recorded map of the property. If there is no recorded map, a copy of a current signed and sealed survey, in addition to the property description on file with the Wake County Register of Deeds, will be accepted. 
2. Establish an address. Contact the GIS Addressing Team at 919-996-4471 for address assignments. 
3. Include approved site permit drawings with your application materials.  
4. If applicable, include approved administrative site review or preliminary subdivision. 
5. If your townhouse project includes a Site Permit Review (SPR) that was approved prior to March 23, 2020, a digital copy will still be required. 

You may contact a customer service agent at 919-996-2500 with any questions regarding this process. 

Prepare Application Materials

The below application forms and supporting documents are required for new townhouses: 

1. Residential permit data form 
2. Plot plan per each lot and recorded plat
3. Townhouse construction drawings (if a typical # has been assigned this is not needed)
4. Hydrant flow test and fire flow analysis dated within one year 

Submittal Instructions

To submit for a new townhouse follow the steps in our helpful online application guide. All forms, plans, and supporting documents must be attached as PDFs and cannot be a locked or secured. Applicants may add all relevant information and update plans and documents in the portal before plan review can begin. 

Project Review and Permitting

Applicants will be notified by email when a project is processed. Standard review times are available to view online. Plan review comments can be viewed any time via a registered account in the Permit and Development Portal.  

Plans that are ready for permit issuance but have incomplete contractor information will be kept at the Planning and Development Customer Service Center for up to six months. After six months, the plans will be considered invalid, and the application will be voided. An administrative fee may be incurred when projects are voided.

Paying Fees

A Plan Review Fee is due prior to project review. All other permit fees are due when permits are ready for issuance.

The Development Fee Guide provides a detailed list of specific development fees.  

• The Customer Service Center processes payments or you may pay via the Permit Portal.
• Payment types include Cash, MasterCard, Visa, or check made payable to the City of Raleigh.

A  fee calculator may be used to obtain an estimate of some building and trade permit fees.