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An At-Risk Commercial (or Non-Residential) Building Permit is an option for an applicant constructing commercial or multifamily building projects. It allows for construction activities to begin prior to the formal approval of site plans, including the ability to start constructing a foundation.
This permit type is governed by North Carolina General Statute 160D-1110.1.
Before Submitting an Application
An approved erosion control plan must be obtained prior to applying for an At-Risk building permit. Failure to do so may result in the denial or revocation of the permit at any time.
Eligible permit applicants may pursue a foundation permit and subsequently, a building permit for structural or framing members for exterior walls and roof assemblies.
Tips for pursuing an At-Risk Permit:
- Understand At-Risk Permit state law General Statute 160-D-1110.1.
- Ensure project building plans are sealed and complete.
Plans should show foundation however, structural with roof specifications are reference only.
A permit applicant is eligible to request a Pre-Submittal meeting under the following circumstances:
- Possess sealed and complete project plans and specifications for a building project.
- Applicant has determined whether an at-risk permit option will be utilized for their project.
- Project Plans are identical to plans which may be under review in an adjacent process such as an Administrative Site Review or Site Permit Review.
- The building permit applicant has made best efforts to compile and prepare documents required by regulatory agencies.
Prepare Application Materials
The At-Risk permitting process is described as follows:
- Schedule a 20-minute virtual meeting with a Staff.
- Meet with the City personnel in the Pre-Conference.
- Submit the following documents:
- Approved Erosion Control plan or case number
- At-Risk Non-Residential Permit Application
- Sealed and Complete project building plans
- Project plans specifying foundation only.
- Foundation permits are to be issued prior to a review of structure and roof.
- Submit the following documents:
- Sealed and Complete Drawings will be routed for review.
Project Review and Permitting
Initial 10 business days for review cycle. Resubmittals are routed for 8 business days.
Foundation only permit is issued upon approval in a final review.
Schedule a subsequent meeting for a structural and roof permitting.
Before issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy:
- Site plans and infrastructure drawings must be approved.
- Site permits must be completed and building trades approved.
- Building permits with completed inspections.
Paying Fees
The Development Fee Guide provides a detailed list of specific development fees.
- It is recommended that fees be paid via the Permit Portal.
- All major credit cards and eCheck payments are accepted.
- If you have questions, please contact the Customer Service Center.
A fee calculator may be used to obtain an estimate of some building and trade permit fees.