How To Apply For Permits And Understanding Restoration Regulations

Permits and regulations for Raleigh home restoration can be difficult for homeowners to navigate, but it doesn’t have to be. 

This article will explain what is needed to apply for permits and will help homeowners understand some home restoration regulations. 

Five Permit Application Requirements

Before a home renovation project can be approved an application must be submitted and completed in full.

Here are five permit requirements for all Raleigh home renovation projects.

1. Registration
2. Information
3. Affidavit (homeowners acting as contractors)
4. Historic district considerations
5. Water management approval

Once applications are submitted they are reviewed to ensure the project will be completed safely and in compliance with North Carolina building code standards. 

Below we will go into further detail for each one of the above listed requirements.

Permit Portal Registration Is Required

1. Registration

Registration is required for all permits pertaining to any construction projects in Raleigh. The permit portal page is through the City Of Oaks portal page. 

Through this page not only are you able to register your permit but you can schedule your inspection, pay fees, and manage your home renovation project.

2. Information 

No information should be left out when submitting permit applications.

Information related to all contractors, both subcontractors and general contractors need to be included, including their license number.

3. Affidavit

For homeowners completing a home renovation on their own, without a contractor, an owner exemption affidavit must be submitted. 

Note, that homeowners are only allowed to complete the project on their own if they meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements can be found here.

4. Historic District Considerations

Some areas of Raleigh are governed by the Raleigh Historic District and need special permissions before any construction projects begin.

Homeowners should check to see if their home is located within a historic district or if their home or property is considered a historic landmark. 

Should the property fall into one of these categories a certificate of appropriateness needs to be submitted to the development commission. This may need to be done and approved prior to submitting the permit application. 

5. Water Management Approval

Any properties that do not run off the city water line need to have special approval from Wastewater Management and Wake County Septic.

This includes properties that run on septic services or are on a private well.

All plans need to be approved through those listed above before submitting an application through the city.

These are just a few of the requirements needed when applying for a building permit with the city of Raleigh. More information can be found by visiting raleighnc.gov. 

Now that you know a little more about what’s required to obtain a permit, let’s get a better understanding when it comes to renovation regulations. 

Plans Vs. No Plans

Not all home renovation projects require homeowners to submit plans to the city.

Plans are required for large projects that result in more storage or livable space. Renovations that include additions such as garages, second floors, or accessory dwellings on the same lot require plans and permits. All plans can be submitted to [email protected]. 

Smaller projects such as moving walls, upgrading electrical services, or replacing a water heater do not require plans. It’s important to understand that while these projects don’t require plans, they do still require a permit.