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What building code is enforced in the Town of Morrisville?

The Town of Morrisville enforces the NC State Building Code.  This Code is based on the International Building Codes.

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What role does the Inspections Department play in the installation of Irrigation systems?

Prior to the installation of any irrigation system, an application for permit must be submitted to the Town of Morrisville Inspections Department. The permit covers plan review and inspectons of the system and backflow device to ensure proper installation.

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Is a permit required for construction of a deck on my own property?

Yes, a permit is required and inspections will be made to determine compliance with the residential building code.

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When is a contractor’s license required?

Any project when the cost of construction is $30,000 dollars or more.  Exception: A homeowner who lives in the home and plans to live there for 12 months may do his own work without a license.  Any applicable permits, and inspections are still required to determine that the work is in compliance with state codes and local ordinances.

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What size building can be constructed without a permit?

A residential accessory structure with any dimension 12 feet or less can be constructed without having to meet the residential building code requirements. However, approval from The Town of Morrisville Planning Department may be required to verify that the location meets local setbacks of the zoning, in which the structure is located.

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How do I schedule inspections?

The town of Morrisville has a dedicated phone line used strictly for inspection requests.  The telephone number for the inspection request line is (919) 463-6180.  This works just like voice mail; you will need to leave your permit number, type of inspection that you are requesting, and a name and contact number.  We are 48 hrs. out on inspection requests.

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How many sets of plans are required for single-family residential plan approval?

Two sets of plans are required to be submitted with the permit application, and two plot plans showing distance from property lines.

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How many sets of plans are required for Non-Residential plan approval?

Apartments, condo’s, and other non-residential projects require 3 sets of engineered plans, with the exception of restaurants, which require 4 sets of plans, and a Wake County Health Department Application.

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What is a building permit?

A building permit is the basic administrative device required by the State of NC that must be obtained prior to construction or alteration of any building or structure, or plumbing, mechanical, or electrical system.  In some cases, exemptions from requirements for building permits are applicable, and the Building Inspection Department should be contacted to determine if a project is exempt.

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How do I obtain a building permit?

The process for obtaining a building, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permit begins with completing and submitting a Permit Application.  This application is available at the Building Inspections Office, or you can click on the following link to view a permit application.

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How long does it take to receive a permit?

Upon receipt of a permit application and/or plans, the plan review staff will check the information for technical content and completeness.  After determining that all necessary information has been supplied, approval of the issuance of the permit will be notified that the permit is ready to be purchased and picked up.  The review process may take approximately 2 weeks for single family and 4-6 weeks for non-residential.

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When is a permit required?

Typical construction projects requiring permits and inspections include: room additions, decks, roofs over decks, finishing basements, bonus rooms ant attics, lawn irrigation systems, accessory buildings, all installations or modifications to electrical, plumbing, or heating or air conditioning systems.  Building permits shall not be required for non-structural work under $5000, farm buildings outside any municipality and residential accessory structures when no dimension exceeds twelve feet.  

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What is considered an accessory building?

Gazebos, Pergola's and storage buildings are a few examples of accessory buildings.

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Can I, as homeowner, do my own work?

Yes.  A homeowner is allowed to do their own work if they own the property and will be living there for 12 months after completing the work. Permits are required unless work is non-structural.

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What are the office hours?

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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How much does a permit cost?

Permit fees vary according to the scope of work. Please see the fee schedule.

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What other Town of Morrisville services or departments is involved with my construction project? Throughout the normal building construction process, the Building Inspection Department works closely with the Engineering Department – (oversees construction and design of the town’s infrastructure); the Planning and Zoning Department – (enforces ordinances related to property setbacks, retaining wall Limitations, property use, etc.), the Public Works Department – (maintains Electrical distribution systems, streets, water and sewer utility service, etc.);  and the Finance Department – (provides metering and billing services.)   Commercial projects may include the Fire Department – (ensures compliance with the International Fire Code), and the Wake County Health Department – (for restaurants, daycare's, pools, etc.)  Listed below are the numbers for these departments.

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How can I obtain a copy of the NC Building codes?

The NC State Building Codes are available for purchase through:
NC Department of Insurance Engineering Division 
322 Chapanoke Road, Raleigh, NC 27603  
(919) 661-5880  
They may also be viewed online at the NC Building Inspectors Association web site, which is www.ncbia.org

  

Inspections Dept  919-463-6180 Finance Department    919-463-6171   
Engineering Dept 919-463-6169 Fire Department       919-464-6120
Planning & Zoning Dept         919-463-6194 Wake Co. Health Department       919-856-7400
Public Works Dept  919-463-7070

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