The Permits Section issues permits for all classes of work including building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical. This section also schedules inspections, coordinates gas meter releases, power releases, and issues certificates of occupancy/compliance. Obtaining the necessary permit is the first step in ensuring your development activity is successful and legal.

A Development Clearance Certificate must be obtained from the Towns of Oak Ridge, Sedalia, Whitsett, Jamestown, Summerfield and PTAA prior to applying for any permit.

If the property is served by well and/or septic, separate permits or approvals may be required from Environmental Health.

For more information, requirements or approvals contact Guilford County Planning & Development regarding Zoning, Watershed and Soil Erosion.

Applying for a Permit

All permits are to be applied for online utilizing the Civic Access public portal.

Instructions on how to use the Civic Access public portal: User Guide, How to Video.

Permit Types

The following provides detailed information about requirements by Guilford County Inspections Department and specifications depending on the proposed scope of work and the type of permit to apply for.

What Permit Type to Use

• New Single-Family Residence, Duplex or Townhome

• Addition to Residential Building

• Alterations or an Upfit to Residential Building

• Manufactured Home

• Accessory Dwelling Units

• Accessory Buildings or Structures

• Decks and Porches

• Pools, Hot Tubs and Spas

• Solar Panels

• Trade Permits

• Demo Permits

• Commercial Projects

How to Revise a Permit

Modify Contacts on a Permit

Contacts on a permit can be modified by submitting a completed Modify Contacts form. Only current permit Applicants, Contractors and Property Owners are authorized to modify contacts on a permit. A new Certificate of Workers' Compensation Insurance form or a newly completed Affidavit of Workers Compensation Exemption form may be required. 

Amend a Permit

Permits can be amended while in the review process or after the permit has been issued. Permits that are amended are subject to an amendment fee for each amendment. Only current permit Applicants, Contractors or Property Owners are authorized to amend a permit. Permits must be amended when:

• Revised Plot Plan is to be submitted.
• The scope of the project will change.
• New or Revised Construction Plans are to be submitted.
• The number of bedrooms for a project has changed.

To amend a permit, complete the Amend Permit form.  A Permit Tech will receive the submittal, process it, and contact you when the Civic Access public portal is available for you to upload your revised documents which may include Plot Plan, Construction Plans or any other applicable information needed for the amendment. The Permit Tech will place a Hold on all Inspections until the amendment has been approved and any applicable fees are paid.