Asheville Building Rules and Guides

Welcome to the Development Services page. Here you will find the rules and manuals for building and land use in the City of Asheville.

Fees

• View the Fee Schedule here – See how much permits and services cost.

City Rules (The UDO)

The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) is the main rulebook for building in Asheville.

• Read Chapter 7: Development Rules

• Tree Rules: How to save trees during building

• Recommended Tree List: Best trees to plant in Asheville

Construction Manual (SSDM)

The Standard Specifications and Details Manual tells you how to build safe roads, pipes, and walls.

• Download the Construction Manual (SSDM)

• Note: This manual does not include water pipes. For water line rules, contact the Water Resources Department.

State Building Codes

All new buildings must follow North Carolina state laws.

• Homes: Any home plans sent after January 1, 2019, must follow the 2018 NC Residential Code.

• Businesses: All business plans must follow the NC Building Code.

• Read the State Building Codes here

Minimum Housing Code

This law makes sure all places where people live are safe and clean. All homes in the city must meet these basic standards.

• Learn more about Housing Standards

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Special Help and Common Questions

Our team has created simple guides for parts of the code that can be confusing.

Signs and Awnings

Before you put up a sign or awning for your business, check the rules. It can save you time and money.

• Most signs need a permit.

• Small signs may not need a full review.

• Call (828) 259-5846 before you start.

• Check the Sign and Awning Guide

Building a Deck

Are you adding a deck to your home?

• Read the Deck Building Guide

Dryer Vents

There are safety rules for how dryer vents go through floors and ceilings to prevent fires.

• See the Dryer Vent Safety Diagram

Handrails for Stairs

The state has specific rules about how wide a handrail should be so it is easy to grab.

• See pictures of legal handrails

Gas Heaters

• You cannot use unvented gas heaters in a bedroom.

• New gas heaters cannot be the only way you heat your home.

• All heaters must be installed exactly how the maker says.

Solar Panels

• You need a General Contractor (GC) if the building work costs more than $30,000.

• View forms for solar panel projects

Building on Steep Hills (Slopes)

Asheville has special rules for cutting down trees or bushes on steep hills. This helps prevent mudslides and protects the land.

• Read FAQ about Steep Hill rules