Unincorporated Wake County

Required for most new construction, additions, structural work, trade work, manufactured home setup, and many accessory/site improvements under NC code and county rules.

Note: Wake County follows NC statutory permit exemptions for ordinary repairs and minor work that does not affect structure, egress, fire protection, or building systems. Confirm exemptions against the current county permit guidance before starting work.

Building code

2018 NC State Building Code family with NC amendments

Permit validity

Verify current county rule by permit type

Owner-builder

Owners may apply where allowed, but state licensing rules and county affidavit/document requirements still apply.

Contractor requirements

NC general contractor license generally required at $40,000 or more; licensed electrical, plumbing, and mechanical contractors required for those trades.

1. 01
   Verify the parcel is in unincorporated Wake County and identify the permit type needed.
2. 02
   Create or log into the Wake County permit portal.
3. 03
   Submit the permit application, plans, site information, and supporting forms.
4. 04
   Respond to review comments and provide corrections or additional agency approvals if required.
5. 05
   Pay fees and obtain issued permit in the portal.
6. 06
   Schedule required inspections through the county system.

Source: Planning, Development and Inspections, Wake County ↗

Fees are paid through the county portal and county cashiering process

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• Wake County permit portal and county inspection scheduling instructions (online)

Typical sequence: Typical sequence: Footing/foundation, slab/under-slab, rough framing and rough trades, insulation, finals, then closeout/certificate as applicable.