What you need to know before you do your own work

As a homeowner, you can get a permit to build or modify your own home provided:

• You own and live in the house (must show proof)
• You sign an affidavit of ownership and terms of permits and inspections.
• The house is not for sale or lease at the time of the request and for at least one year after completion.
• You are going to oversee the work yourself.

You can get a permit to do plumbing or mechanical work provided:

• You own and live in the house (must show proof)
• You sign an affidavit of ownership and terms of permits and inspections.
• The house is not for sale or lease at the time of the request.
• You are going to do the work yourself.

You can get a permit to do electrical work on your residence provided:

• You own and live in the house (must show proof)
• You sign an affidavit of ownership and terms of permits and inspections.
• The house is not for sale or lease at the time of the request.
• You are going to do the work yourself.

When do you need a building permit? And how much will it cost?

You need a building permit for all construction that is structural in nature and you need a building permit for non-structural work exceeding $15,000. You need a building permit anytime you cover new ground, such as when building a deck, room addition, accessory building, garage or pool. All electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work needs a separate permit for each trade. The price of the permit is calculated using the cost of the construction. View Permits, Fees and Procedures. The items included on the form will answer most of your questions about items and systems for which a permit is required.

How do you get a building permit?

Plan review is required for new construction including additions and accessory structures. You can find out more information by viewing residential plan review. You will need to upload a site plan drawn to scale. For interior alterations only, fill out a Residential Building Permit Application and submit it in person to the Building Inspections Division for approval. You will need to bring proof of identity, such as a North Carolina driver's license or ID. You must pay for the permit at the time of application by check, cash, or credit card.

How can you check on the results or status of your inspection?

Follow this link and type in the address or permit number.