Permits are the way construction is regulated.  This regulation is designed to ensure that all construction in the Town is safe.  The safety of the occupants of buildings is the primary reason for having construction codes.  The Town of Carolina Beach adopts by ordinance the North Carolina Building Codes (included in which are the Building, Plumbing, Electrical, Fire, Mechanical, and Energy Codes) along with local regulations that then become a portion of the Town of Carolina Beach Municipal Code. 

There are several different types of permits, based on the type of construction: structural, plumbing, electrical, mechanical that are used for single-family and other types of construction; in addition, permits are required for demolition or relocation of buildings or structures. Obtaining a permit is just the first step in the process.  In this step, you may need to create construction drawings or plans to submit to New Hanover County for review along with a site plan showing the location of the proposed improvements.

Once your plans approved, you are required to build the project according to those plans and any changes made to the plans or construction in the field will need approval.

A construction permit is needed for all new construction, many types of repair or replacement work as well.  A plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit is required for any additions or changes to the structures existing system; for example, moving or adding electrical outlets or replacing you water heater. All Building Permits and Trade Permits are obtained through New Hanover County.

A Building Permit is not required for items such as wallpapering, painting, or similar finish work.

Fences six feet or lower in height (not constructed of masonry) and accessory buildings 120 square feet (and no longer than 12 feet in any direction) do not need a Building Permit. However, a Zoning Permit IS REQUIRED and must be applied for with the Town of Carolina Beach. Also, other agencies may require permits, so it is always wise to check before beginning construction.

Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work, replacement or repair of fixtures (such as changing water faucets or replacing switches) do not normally require permits; replacing your water heater (if not same for same) or installing a lawn sprinkler system does require permits.

All Building Permits and Trade Permits are issued by New Hanover County. To apply for a permit, click here. Zoning and other permits are issued by the Town of Carolina Beach. Click here to access our online permitting portal.

Zoning sets up the types of buildings and what uses they may be used for in a defined area.  For example, a residential area may be zoned R-1-B, which means that the lots can contain one single family dwelling and has a typical minimum lot size of 5,000 square feet.

Zoning is regulated by the Town’s Planning Department and is based on zoning maps approved by Town Council. Zoning questions should be directed to Town planners.

What about other approvals or permits?        

Other Town or governmental agencies may need to review and approve your project. Staff will advise you of such when your plans are submitted.

Contractors licensed by the State of North Carolina, contractor’s agents, and homeowners can obtain permits for work over $30,000.  If construction costs are less than $30,000, an unlicensed contractor may obtain permits.

Property owners may do the work themselves, but they must follow certain regulations. The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors cautions homeowners against obtaining permits on behalf of their contractor. Unlicensed contractors may take advantage of homeowners who lack construction knowledge, potentially placing the homeowner in a position of liability for both worker’s compensation and payroll taxes.

A qualified individual, such as a draftsman, can typically prepare plans for projects such as room additions; other, more complex, projects may require plans prepared by a licensed architect or engineer.

For projects such as routine patio covers, the State’s Prescriptive Code has standard specifications that can be followed (within certain limitations) when submitted along with a site plan showing the location of the proposed work.

The Town recommends you deal only with a contractor licensed by the State of North Carolina if construction costs exceed $40,000. 

It is the responsibility of the permit holder or contractor to request inspections at specific times during the construction process.  Inspections are made during certain points in the project, specifically before any work is concealed or completed. For example, retaining walls require inspections of the footing with the steel reinforcement held in place, after the block is laid and the remainder of the steel reinforcement is in place, but before grouting, after back fill has been placed (unless a French drain is required), and at completion. Remember, the project is not complete for legal purposes until it has passed a final inspection.