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1. How do I get building permits?

The Town of Clayton Engineering and Inspections Department is where you can get most Town permits. You can contact Engineering and Inspections at:
111 E 2nd Street
Clayton, NC 27520
Phone: 919-553-5002
Fax: 919-553-1720

Often, the first step to getting a Building Permit is a Zoning Compliance Permit to ensure the proposed work meets the requirement of the Unified Development Code. If this is the case, you'll need to apply for a Zoning Compliance Permit before any building permits can be issued. Visit the Planning Department Permits and Applications page to learn more.

Remember!! If applying for both a Zoning Compliance and a Building Permit, turn in the applications at the same time to the Planning Department. Then, when the Zoning Compliance Permit is approved, staff will pass on the Building Permit application and a copy of your Approval to the Building and Inspections Department. This saves you time!

2. What do I need to put a shed, fence, deck, pool, or house addition on my property?

First, you must receive a Zoning Permit from the Town of Clayton Planning Department. Failure to receive a Zoning Permit is considered a Zoning Violation and can result in a warning letter and possibly fines, so please don't forget this step!

The Planning Department will work with you to make sure the project will not encroach into any easements and meets all setback requirements, as well as any other Code requirements. Please contact the Planning Department to begin the process.

3. What is a Zoning Compliance Permit and do I need one?

A Zoning Compliance Permit is required for:

• Most construction projects
• New businesses or uses
• New/changed business locations
• Fences, sheds, pools, and house additions

A Zoning Compliance Permit allows staff to review a request for consistency with the Unified Development Code and ensure that a use is allowed in the location proposed. Contact the Planning Department for more information.

Resources

• To download application forms visit the Permits and Applications page
• Access the Unified Development Code

4. What's the difference between a Zoning Permit and a Building Permit?

Most development is regulated under two different codes: the zoning code (Unified Development Code) and the Building Code. Receiving a Zoning Permit (Zoning Compliance Permit) is generally the first step in the development process, followed by applying for and receiving a Building Permit.

5. What is the process to renovate or expand an existing commercial building?

Before renovating a building, you should contact the Town of Clayton Engineering and Inspections Department to determine what permits are necessary. To expand a building, you will need to obtain permits and may need to go through the site plan approval process. To begin the process, please contact the Planning Department at:
111 E 2nd Street
Clayton, NC 27520
Phone: 919-553-5002
Fax: 919-359-1720

6. What are the rules for temporary signs?

Temporary signs include banners, flags, balloons and other types of signage which will be used on a temporary basis. Temporary signs are subject to the rules and regulations of the zoning code (Unified Development Code - see Section 155.403) and require a temporary sign permit.

For a copy of the application visit the Permits and Applications page, or contact the Planning Department for more information and assistance.

7. How are signs regulated?

To help preserve the character of our town by keeping it neat and clean, the Town of Clayton regulates signs through its Sign Ordinance. The Ordinance allows temporary signs to be placed on properties that are for sale, rent/lease, or where an activity is taking place. Signs placed at other locations, such as those on other properties or street right-of-ways, directing attention to the sale or activity, are not permitted.

All permanent signs and most temporary signs must be approved and permitted by the Town. The Sign Ordinance can be found in Section 155.403 of the Unified Development Code (UDC).

Resources

• View the UDC
• Download an application on the Permits and Applications page

8. How much does a permit or application cost?

To see the Town's Comprehensive List of Fees and Charges visit the Taxes and Fees page. Permit and application fees are also shown on each permit application. To access the application forms, visit the Permits and Applications page.