Residential permits are required for many construction and improvement projects involving homes and residential properties. This can include building one or more new homes, townhouses, triplexes, quadplexes, or accessory dwelling units; adding to or remodeling an existing home; or installing a deck, shed, fence, pool, electrical system, plumbing, heating and cooling equipment, or other residential improvements.
Permit requirements are based on applicable State and local regulations, including North Carolina General Statute 160D-1110, the North Carolina State Building Code, and the City of Raleigh's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). These requirements help make sure construction is safe and that development meets applicable zoning and development standards.
Do I Need a Permit?
Permit requirements depend on the type of project and scope of work you are planning. Some projects may require more than one type of permit or approval.
A permit may be required for:
- New construction or additions
- Structural changes or repairs
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- Heating and cooling systems
- Roofing
- Demolition or moving a structure
- Other alterations or repairs
Some repair and replacement work may not require a permit when specific conditions are met. Project cost alone does not determine whether a permit is required.
For example, work costing $40,000 or less can still require a permit when it involves the addition, repair, or replacement of load-bearing structures, or certain plumbing, heating and cooling, electrical, roofing, or Fire Code-related work.
Working Without a Permit
Starting work without a required permit can create safety, financial, and legal issues. Possible consequences include:
- A citation from the City of Raleigh
- Fines, increased permit fees, or possible court costs
- Safety hazards in your home or on your property
- Having to remove or redo work at the property owner's expense
- Delays or complications when selling your home or property if unpermitted work is discovered
- Insurance coverage issues related to unpermitted work
Getting the required permits before work begins helps make sure your project meets applicable requirements and can be properly inspected.
Find Your Residential Permit
Find your project to learn which permits are required, what you need before you apply, what documents you need, and how to submit your application.
Already Have a Project?
Use the Permit and Development Portal to track your project, pay fees, view permit information, and schedule inspections.
Go to the Permit and Development Portal
Inspections
Permits and inspections work together to help make sure construction meets applicable safety requirements. When inspections are required, City inspectors check the work at key stages of construction before the project is completed.
Learn about Residential Inspections
Need Help?
Not sure where to start or have a question about your project? Submit your question through Ask Raleigh.
