Mon - Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm 
inspections@johnstonnc.comFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
|
Is there a building permit application that I must submit with my plans? Yes. All forms are on the Forms and Applications page; or use the links below to go to the Building Permit Application form directly: |
|
Planning a new construction, addition or alteration; what should my permit application documents include? You will submit a completed Building Permit Application which describes your project along with 2 sets of construction drawings, a site plan, a septic permit, a county water receipt, if applicable, and a lien agent which can be obtained from www.liensnc.com.
|
|
Can I apply for an inspection permit over the phone? No. |
|
How do I apply for a permit? For a simple trade permit, email it to inspections@johnstonnc.com Otherwise, it has to be brought into the office, or mailed to the office. |
|
What happens after I submit my permit application? Once we have received a completed permit application, and all the necessary documents, it takes about two and a half weeks for Site Plan and Construction Plan approval. If the plan reviewer has any questions or needs any additional information during this time, he or she will contact you directly. Once plan review is complete, you will receive notification via email that your permit is ready for final payment and issuance.
|
|
Who can apply for a building permit? The property owner, contractor or an authorized agent representing the property owner. Keep in mind that the person who applies for, and is listed as the applicant on the permit, owns the permit. |
|
Can I apply online for a permit? Not at this time. |
|
What kind of plans do I need for a permit? See the Plan Review Requirements. Do I need to provide a copy of the construction contract? In most cases, no. |
|
How do I report a code violation? Complete the Property Compliance Complaint form. |
|
Can I start work before my commercial permit is issued? No. |
|
Who should I call if I have questions regarding licenses, tests, or investigations of contractors' workmanship? Contact the relevant Licensing Board, each Board has their own investigators. |
|
Can I act as my own contractor? An owner can act as their own contractor if they own the property and will be occupying the building for at least 12 consecutive months following the final inspection after the Certificate of Occupancy has been issued. |
|
Where can I find a list of licensed contractors?
|
|
Does registering for General Contractor mean that I am able to perform all trades required for the permit? No, you have to be licensed for any trade work by the State of North Carolina. |
|
Do I need to provide a copy of the construction contract? In most cases, no. |
|
When is a licensed general contractor needed for a permit? If a job exceeds $40,000, a licensed General Contractor is required. Can I start work before my commercial permit is issued? No. |
|
What does a building permit cost? Please refer to the current Fee Schedule. |
|
What types of payment does the Building Department accept? Cash, checks payable to Johnston County Inspections, and all major credit cards. For more information, see How to Apply for a Building Permit. |
|
Where do I go to request a refund? If your permit did not expire and no inspections were ever performed, you can receive a refund. See refund policy below. Refund Policy for Residential and Commercial Permits All refund request forms can be emailed in to inspections@johnstonnc.com |
|
When is a licensed general contractor needed for a permit? If a job exceeds $40,000, a licensed General Contractor is required. |
|
What kind of plans do I need for a permit? See the Plan Review Requirements. |
