Inspections

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is a permit required?
• When is permit not required?
• Can a homeowner act as his/her own general contractor?
• When is a Licensed General Contractor required?
• FAQs

• When is a permit required?

  State law requires that permits be obtained before

  1. The construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, movement to another site, removal or demolition of any building;
  2. The installation, extension or general repair of any plumbing system;
  3. The installation, extension, alteration or general repair of any heating or cooling equipment system;
  4. The installation, extension, alteration or general repair of any electrical wiring, devices, appliances or equipment without first securing from the Inspection Department with jurisduction over the site of the work each permit required by the North Carolina State Building Codes and other State or local law or local ordinance or regulation applicable to the work.
  5. Replacing stucco.

• When is permit not required?

  • The replacement of non-structural cosmetic building elements such as

  Floor and wall coverings
  Molding and trim work
  Cabinets and casework
  Roof coverings of the same fire resistance.

  • Residential accessory buildings that are no more than 12 feet in any dimension (However, you will need to check with Planning & Zoning about zoning permit at 910-230-3505.)
  • Replacement of electrical fixtures and components when work is not done within the wall or ceiling cavity or behind the finished wall or ceiling surface.
  • Replacement of plumbing fixtures when the work does not go beyond the trap seal.
  • Installation of low voltage exterior landscape lighting.

• Can a homeowner act as his/her own general contractor?

  Yes; however, when the homeowner acts as their own general contractor, they are assuming responsibility for all work done and they must reside at that residence for a period of twelve months before the property can be sold.

• When is a Licensed General Contractor required?

  Where the cost of the undertaking is forty thousand dollars ($40,000) or more.

• FAQs

  General Questions
  What does the Planning & Inspections Division do?
  The Planning & Inspections Division helps ensure that development within the Town of Dunn is safe, orderly, and consistent with local ordinances. Services include building permits, inspections, zoning administration, land use review, code enforcement, and development planning.
  How can I contact the Planning & Inspections Division?
  You can contact the Planning & Inspections Division by phone, email, or by visiting the Planning & Inspections office at 102 N Powell Ave during regular business hours. Contact information and office hours are available on the Town of Dunn website at https://www.cityofdunn.org/inspections/meet-our-staff-536.asp.
  Do I need an appointment?
  Appointments are not typically required for general inquiries. However, meetings related to development projects, zoning questions, or plan reviews may benefit from scheduling an appointment in advance.
  Permits
  When is a building permit required?
  A permit is generally required for new construction, additions, renovations, structural alterations, electrical work, plumbing work, mechanical systems, and certain accessory structures. Contact the division if you are unsure whether your project requires a permit.
  Can I start work before obtaining a permit?
  No. Beginning work without the required permits may result in penalties, stop-work orders, and additional fees.
  How do I apply for a permit?
  Permit applications may be submitted through the Town's permitting system or in person. Depending on the project, construction plans and supporting documentation may be required.
  How long does it take to receive a permit?
  Review times vary depending on project size and complexity. Simple residential permits may be processed more quickly, while commercial projects and developments requiring multiple reviews may take longer.
  What is the cost of a permit?
  Permit fees vary based on the type and scope of work. Current fee schedules are available from the Finance Department at https://www.cityofdunn.org/fee-schedule.asp
  Inspections
  Why are inspections required?
  Inspections help ensure construction complies with applicable building codes and approved plans, protecting public health and safety.
  How do I schedule an inspection?
  Inspections can typically be scheduled through the Town's permitting system or by contacting the Planning & Inspections Division directly.
  What happens if I fail an inspection?
  The inspector will identify the deficiencies that must be corrected before work can proceed. Once corrections are made, a reinspection can be scheduled.
  Do I need all inspections completed before occupying a building?
  Yes. Required inspections must be completed and approved before a Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Compliance can be issued, when applicable.
  What is a Certificate of Occupancy?
  A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) confirms that a building has met applicable code requirements and is approved for occupancy or use.
  Residential Projects
  Do I need a permit to build a shed?
  Many sheds require permits, especially if they exceed certain size thresholds or require electrical service. Zoning setbacks may also apply.
  Do I need a permit for a fence?
  Fence requirements vary depending on location, height, and zoning district. Contact the division before installing a fence to verify requirements.
  Can I build a deck or patio without a permit?
  Many decks require permits, particularly if they are attached to a structure or elevated above grade. Permit requirements vary by project.
  Can I place a manufactured or modular home on my property?
  Manufactured and modular homes must meet applicable zoning and building requirements. Additional approvals may be necessary before placement.
  How close can I build to my property line?
  Setback requirements vary by zoning district and structure type. Contact the Planning Division to determine the requirements for your property.
  Zoning & Land Use
  What is zoning?
  Zoning regulations determine how land may be used and developed within different areas of the Town.
  How do I find my property's zoning district?
  Property zoning information can be obtained through the Harnett County GIS Department at https://gis.harnett.org/gisviewer/
  Can I operate a business from my home?
  Certain home occupations may be permitted, subject to zoning regulations and operational standards in Section 5.07.F. 
  What if I want to use my property in a way not allowed by zoning?
  Depending on the situation, options may include rezoning, a special use permit, or a variance. Staff can help determine the appropriate process.
  What is a variance?
  A variance is a request for relief from specific zoning requirements due to unique property conditions and must be approved through a formal review process.
  Businesses & Commercial Development
  What permits are needed to open a business?
  Requirements vary depending on the type of business and location. You may need zoning approval, building permits, occupancy approvals, signage permits, and other state or local approvals.
  Do I need approval before changing the use of a building?
  Yes. A change in occupancy or use may require zoning review, building code review, and inspections before the space can be occupied.
  Do I need a permit for a business sign?
  Most signs require permits and must comply with the Town's sign regulations regarding size, placement, and design.
  Can I renovate an existing commercial building?
  Yes, but permits and inspections are typically required. Accessibility, fire safety, and building code requirements may also apply.
  How can I determine whether a property is suitable for my business?
  Planning staff can help verify zoning, permitted uses, parking requirements, and other development regulations before you lease or purchase a property.
  Development & Subdivision
  What is required to subdivide property?
  Subdivision applications typically require review and approval to ensure compliance with local development regulations and infrastructure requirements.
  Do development projects require site plan approval?
  Many commercial, industrial, and multi-family projects require site plan review before permits can be issued.
  Will my project need Planning Board or Town Board approval?
  Some development applications, rezonings, and special approvals require review by advisory boards and/or the Town Board.
  How can I learn about upcoming development projects?
  Information about public hearings, planning board meetings, and development proposals is typically available through the Town's website and public meeting notices.
  Code Enforcement
  How do I report a potential code violation?
  Residents can report concerns regarding property maintenance, unsafe structures, zoning violations, or other code-related issues by contacting the Planning & Inspections Division at (910) 230-3505.
  What happens after a complaint is submitted?
  Staff will investigate the concern and determine whether a violation exists. If a violation is found, the property owner will be notified and given an opportunity to correct the issue.
  Helpful Tips
  What should I do before starting any project?
  Contact the Planning & Inspections Division early in the process. Staff can help identify permit requirements, zoning regulations, and potential issues before work begins.
  Where can I find applications, forms, and fee schedules?
  Applications, forms, fee schedules, and development information are available through the Town of Dunn's website or by contacting the Planning & Inspections Division.
  Who should I contact if I have questions?
  The Planning & Inspections Division is available to assist residents, contractors, developers, and business owners with permitting, inspections, zoning, and development questions.