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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Davidson
Davidson uses Town permit forms for building permit categories including new residence, accessory structure, demolition permit, pool, garage, shed, commercial upfit, retaining wall, solar panels, and similar work. Sign permits and temporary use permits are also locally routed through the Town.
- Exempt Fences do not require a Town permit, but they must still comply with the Davidson Planning Ordinance
Note: Tree removal of trees larger than 12 inches DBH requires a Town permit. Other permit exemptions are not consolidated on the reviewed Town page and should be checked against Davidson ordinance and Mecklenburg County code-permit rules.
- Town permit form
- Detailed plot/site/sketch plan as applicable
- Fee payment
- Permit-type-specific supporting documentation
- Building code
- Mecklenburg County applies the NC State Building Code for code permit issuance. Davidson regulates local planning and zoning under its Planning Ordinance.
- Owner-builder
- County homeowner rules apply when the permit proceeds to Mecklenburg County.
- Contractor requirements
- State contractor-licensing rules apply. Davidson's process does not waive County or state licensing requirements.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Print the applicable Davidson permit form from the Town list, such as building permit, sign permit, temporary use permit, or home occupation agreement.
- 02 Prepare the required detailed plot, site plan, or sketch plan as applicable.
- 03 Scan the completed permit package and submit it through the Davidson Planning Department Submittal Form, or deliver it by mail or in person to Town Hall.
- 04 Pay the required Town fee at the time of submittal. Davidson states permits are not accepted without payment.
- 05 Wait for Davidson review. The approved permit is sent to the email address supplied in the Town submittal form.
- 06 For building and sign permits, submit the Town-approved permit to Mecklenburg County for County review and issuance.
- 07 Complete County review, fees, and inspections as required.
Fee schedule
Davidson building permit fees
Davidson requires fee payment at permit submittal. Building and sign permits then move to Mecklenburg County for additional County fees.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Mecklenburg County Systems (online)
- Inspection hours
- Regular municipal business hours
Typical sequence: Town application review and approval, County code review and issuance for building/sign permits, County field inspections, then final approval or CO as applicable
Frequently asked
Common questions about Davidson permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Davidson, NC? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Davidson, NC? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Davidson, NC? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Davidson, NC? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Davidson, NC? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Town of Davidson Planning Department for local permit intake and zoning review; Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement for County building and sign permit review/issuance after Town approval before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.