Single-Family Development Permits

Typically, a new single-family residence will require a building permit, electrical permit, plumbing permit, gas piping permit, zoning permit, grading permit, sewer service approval, water service approval and a driveway access permit. The City of Asheville’s Development Services Center helps citizens and developers submit the necessary applications to receive these permits.

Permits are not required for construction, alterations, repairs or replacements that will cost five thousand dollars ($5,000) or less in any single-family residence unless the work involves: (1) the addition, repair or replacement of load bearing structures; (2) the addition (excluding same size and capacity) or change in the design of plumbing; (3) the addition, replacement or change in the design of heating, air conditioning, or electrical wiring, devices, appliances, or equipment; or (4) the addition (excluding replacement of like grade of fire resistance) of roofing. If any of these conditions exist, a permit is required.

Information Required for Permit Applications

• Single-Family Permit Application
• Residential Site Plan/Less than 10,000 sq ft Grading
• Information Required for 1-and 2-Family Construction Permits
• Affordable Housing Fee Rebate Form
• Sustainable Residential Housing Fee Rebate Form
• Site Plan: Site plan of the property showing property lines, location of all existing buildings and all new buildings to be permitted, and set-back dimensions.
• Sewer: Approved Metropolitan Sewerage District (MSD) Application.
• Water: Approved Water Availability Application (if required).
• Contractor Information: A list of the general building contractor and the electrical, plumbing, and mechanical contractors. The general contractor’s license number and their City of Asheville privilege license and phone number is required.
• Construction Plans: Three copies of construction plans. One set will be returned to the applicant with plan review comments attached. This approved set of construction drawings must be maintained on the job site. Applications will not be accepted without three sets of plans.
• Amendment of Permit Application 
• Temporary Certificate of Occupancy Application
• Temporary Utility Service Application

Contact Information

Development Services Department
Location: 161 S. Charlotte St., Room A-101
Hours: 7:30  a.m.- 5:30 p.m., Monday - Thursday
Phone: (828) 259-5846
Fax:  (828) 259-5676

Hours: 7:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m., Monday - Thursday