Inspections Department FAQ's

• When is a Permit required?
  When is it necessary to obtain a building permit? Well, the answer is ALMOST ALWAYS! A permit is required anytime work is done on a building or structure, or the systems serving the structure (including plumbing, mechanical and electrical wiring) with a few exceptions, including the following.
  
  The North Carolina State Building Code states, "No person, firm or corporation shall erect, construct, enlarge, install, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish any building, structure, or service system without first obtaining a permit for such from the Inspections Department having jurisdiction."
  
  Everyday projects requiring permits include:
  
  • Converting a residence to a business.
    
  • Constructing a deck, screened porch, or sunroom.
    
  • Installing an irrigation system.
    
  • Installing a swimming pool.
    
  • Adding or extending an electrical circuit.
    
  • Finishing an attic or basement.
    
  • Replacing a furnace or air conditioner.
    
  • Installing gas logs, attic fans, skylights.
    
  
  A permit is not required for:
  
  • Replacement of non-structural, cosmetic building elements, such as: floor and wall coverings; moldings and trim; cabinets and casework; roof coverings with same materials, etc.
    
  • Residential accessory (storage) buildings that are no more than 12 feet in any dimension.
    
  • 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.
    
  • Replacement of water heaters in the same location with the same fuel source.
    
  
  Questions? Call (910) 436-0241 or visit the Inspections and Permits Department located in Town Hall Building.
  
  
• What are the Permit Office hours?
  The Permit office is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Thursday and 8:00 to 12:00 Friday. Field Inspectors work from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday to Thursday and 9:00 to 11:30 Friday and are typically in the office until 9:00 AM daily and after 5:00 PM Monday to Thursday. Telephone (910) 436-0241.
  
  
• What will I need to obtain a Building Permit?
  For all permits, six complete sets of site and building plans are required. A plot plan at a readable scale on letter or legal sized paper is also required, and an application must be filled out at our office. The application will require contractors' names, addresses, state license numbers, and Town of Spring Lake privilege license numbers.
  
  
• When is a Plot Plan or New Survey required?
  As a rule, any time that the "footprint" of a primary or accessory building changes, a new plot plan and as-built survey are required. This includes decks, porches, and storage buildings. However, staff does have the authority to waive the survey if the construction is obviously not in the proximity of any setbacks or easements. Modifications inside the existing building shell do not require a plot plan or survey.
  
  
• Can I, as a homeowner, do my own work?
  Yes, an owner of the property can do their own building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. The owner does not need to be licensed in any of these areas, nor does he need a Town of Spring Lake Privilege License. State law requires that the property be the owner's primary residence for at least twelve months after completion of the work.
  
  
• How is the cost of a permit determined?
  The cost of a permit is compiled from several factors found on several different charts. These charts can be obtained through the Inspection's Department or by clicking the forms link to download a copy. Building Permit Fees are figured based on general cost of construction.
  
  
• How can I access the NC Building Code?
  The North Carolina State Building Code can be found at the NC Building Inspectors' Association home page under the heading "Codes Online".
  
  
• What is the process for obtaining a building permit?
  The plan review process normally takes about two weeks for single family dwellings and small commercial buildings, but may take longer for larger buildings. During that time, your contractors' licenses are verified, your plot plan is checked for compliance with zoning requirements, and you building plans are checked for compliance with NC State Building Codes. If all is approved, you will be contacted to pick up your permit. Plans will be scrutinized by building plans examiners, plumbing, electrical, fire, and mechanical inspectors. Any problems found during the process are provided to the project contact for updates or corrections.
  
  A blue-line survey of the subject property prepared by a registered North Carolina land surveyor is required. This survey must depict the natural ground elevation, flood zone, and parcel identification number (PIN).
  
  Additional requirements and considerations:
  
  • Water tap authorization and receipt for hook-up fees if site is served by central water. Water taps may be obtained by contacting the Spring Lake Water Department. Lots not served by central water must install a private well. A septic permit issued by the Cumberland County Health Department is required for lots not served by Town sewer.
  • Six complete sets of the building plans of the proposed structure. One set of plans will be kept by the Inspection Department, one set will remain at job site, and one set is to be retained by the Contractor.
  • Off-street parking and portable toilets must be provided at all construction sites.
  
  
  An application for the permit will require all contractors' names, addresses, state license numbers, and Town of Spring Lake privilege license numbers.
  
  Each respective contractor and subcontractor must possess a valid license issued by the State of North Carolina to perform his or her particular task(s).
  
  
• When will the 2006 International Building Codes with North Carolina Amendments take effect?
  The National Electrical Code 2005 and the Fire Code 2006 edition went into effect January 1, 2007. The 2002 Building, One and Two Family Dwelling, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy, and Gas Piping Codes are still in effect as of January 1, 2003.
  
  
• How can I schedule an Inspection?
  Call (910) 436-0241 8:00 to 6:00 Monday thru Thursday and 8:00 to 12:00 Friday and ask the operator for Inspections Department.