Building Inspections Department

 

Building permits are required for commercial or residential properties of new construction, alterations, additions and repair projects that are structural in nature. All commercial properties are required to secure a building permit regardless of cost. Other requirements include the following:

• Accessory Buildings over 12-feet in any direction and anything at a cost of $40,000 or more will need a NC General Contractor. Building permit fees are calculated based on the estimated cost of construction.
• All structural work will need a building permit whether it is a long form or short form.
• All Commercial Jobs will need a licensed contractor in NC and tradesmen.
• All new businesses will need a complete Building Summary. You will need your own engineer/architect. 
• If projects have started without a permit, then fines will be added.
• Project will receive an 8 Hour Termination Notice if any work on a project has started without the proper permit, business registration, or zoning permits.
• Plans shall be submitted to the Planning Department, Building Inspections, and the Elizabeth City Fire Department.
• Owners will need to fill out an owner's affidavit if they are doing their own work. If not then all licensed trades in NC will need to do the work for them. 

Building related applications, affidavits and certification forms are provided in the links below. These forms are also available in hard copy in the Building Inspections Department located at the A. P. Midgett Building, 302 East Colonial Avenue, 1st floor. Building Inspectors can assist with building questions and applications Monday-Friday 8:00AM to 9:00AM and 12:30PM to 2:00 PM.

Please utilize our new online system for applications and inspections requests, as we will no longer accept the submittal of any paper copies. It not only facilitates the process, it makes it easy for you to check on the status of your application at any time. Click HERE to access the online system.