Residential Permits Last updated or reviewed on April 4, 2024 The Development Services Department (DSD) Permit Application Center (PAC) helps customers submit the necessary applications to receive permits for residential projects, including: Building a New House Building an Addition to or Remodel a House Building a Detached Structure or Deck Repairing or Installing a New Home System Applying for a Homestay Permit Applying for a Home-Based Business Permit Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) DSD’s Permit Application Center (PAC) is located at 161 South Charlotte Street and open Monday to Friday to assist customers from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (closed on public holidays). Customers can also contact pac@ashevillenc.gov or 828-259-5846 with questions. Click here for residential permit applications and resources. Permit applications can be submitted in-person at the Permit Application Center or online through the Development Portal. Residential Permit Requirements Residential permits are not required for construction, alterations, repairs or replacements that will cost forty thousand dollars ($40,000) or less in any single-family residence, unless the work involves: the addition, repair or replacement of load bearing structures the addition (excluding same size and capacity) or change in the design of plumbing the addition, replacement or change in the design of heating, air conditioning, or electrical wiring, devices, appliances, or equipment the addition (excluding replacement of like grade of fire resistance) of roofing If any of these conditions exist, a permit is required. Whether you plan to “do it yourself” or hire a contractor and subcontractors, each trade is required to be permitted. Residential Building Plan Review Waiver Building code plan review is not required by state law for single family dwellings (SFDs). DSD provides this compliance review as a service to the public. Customers may choose to waive the building review service in the following scenarios: The scope of work is limited to interior renovations or re-roof Work is being done by a licensed General Contractor Signed and sealed plans and details for this project have been produced under the responsible care of a NC licensed design professional (architect and/or engineer) The City of Asheville’s Development Services Department (DSD) is, however, obligated by law to maintain accurate plans on record for all permits. Waiver applicants are still required to submit a residential application and accurate, complete building plans to DSD for record keeping purposes. Submission of an incomplete residential application will result in substantial delay in processing an application. Licensed General Contractor Requirements North Carolina General Statutes require a licensed general contractor for construction where the total cost of the undertaking is $40,000 or more. Under $40,000, a licensed general contractor is not required. An exception allows a homeowner to act as their own general contractor without a license for the construction of their own home when the cost exceeds $40,000. As a condition of this exception, the owner and/or immediate family members shall occupy the dwelling for a minimum of 12 months after the job is completed. The dwelling may not be rented, leased or sold during this time period. Plumbing and Mechanical Work Requirements A homeowner may elect to do his or her own plumbing and/or mechanical work without holding a license in these areas provided that: Plumbing and/or Mechanical permits are obtained The work is inspected by the plumbing or mechanical inspector The owner occupies the dwelling for 12 months after completion of the job Electrical Work Requirements A homeowner may elect to do his or her own electrical work without holding an electrical contractor’s license provided that: The applicant passes an electrical exam administered by the Building Safety Department An Electrical Permit is obtained The work is inspected by the electrical inspector The owner occupies the dwelling for 12 months after completion of the job Click here to register to take the homeowner electrical exam.
