Most construction and renovation projects in Cumberland County, North Carolina, require permits before work begins. The county oversees permitting for unincorporated areas, while cities like Fayetteville and other nearby towns manage their own building departments.
This guide breaks down how Cumberland County’s permitting process works, including when a permit is required, how to apply, what documents you’ll need, typical fees, and inspection steps.
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What requires a building permit in Cumberland County?
Most construction and renovation projects in Cumberland County need a permit to ensure work meets safety and code standards. Permits are typically required for new construction, major alterations, and updates to structural or mechanical systems.
Common projects that require a Cumberland County building permit include:
- New buildings and additions – Residential or commercial projects, including garages and most accessory structures.
- Structural changes – Cutting or adding load-bearing walls, creating new openings, or making major interior reconfigurations.
- Decks and porches – New builds, roofed or enclosed porches, and conversions like screen rooms or sunrooms.
- Retaining walls and similar work – Any project involving structural support or surcharge.
- Change of use or occupancy – For example, converting a storage space into an office.
- Trades projects – Installing or modifying electrical, plumbing, or mechanical/HVAC systems, such as new circuits, water heaters, gas piping, or non-like-for-like HVAC replacements.
To get more information, refer to the county’s building permits page.
What doesn’t require a building permit in Cumberland County?
Not every home improvement or minor repair needs a permit. Cumberland County exempts certain small projects and routine maintenance work from permit requirements.
Projects that cost <$40,000 on 1- or 2-family dwellings are usually exempt unless they involve any of the carve-outs (e.g., work on load-bearing structures, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or fire-protection; certain retaining walls; asbestos; etc.). When a carve-out applies, a permit is required even under $40,000
Cumberland County building permit cost
Cumberland County permit fees vary depending on the type and size of your project. Costs are typically based on factors like project valuation, total square footage, and the kind of work being done.
Residential fees
Commercial fees
To learn more about building permit fees, view the county's fee schedule.
How long do building permits last in Cumberland County?
Permits are valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. As long as work is actively progressing and inspections are scheduled, the permit remains in good standing. If work is suspended for 180+ days, the permit may expire and require renewal.
Cumberland County trade permits
Plumbing permits
Permits are required for all plumbing system installations, replacements, or major repairs.
Electrical permits
Permits are required for all new circuits, service upgrades, or electrical system work.
HVAC permits
HVAC permits are required for new system installs, ductwork, and replacements.
Get additional information on trade permit fees by visiting the fee schedule.
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How to get a building permit in Cumberland County
Step 1: Prepare your documents
Before you start an application in the County’s portal, gather the basics the Inspections team typically asks for, including:
- Construction drawings (PDF) and a site/plot plan
- Contractor license & insurance (or owner-builder info/affidavits)
- Estimated construction value (contract or ICC valuation if no contract)
- Outside approvals if triggered (e.g., Environmental Health for septic/well; zoning items per project checklists)
Notes: The County posts project-type checklists. Use them to confirm which documents/approvals your project needs.
Checklists available:
- Addition to house or accessory buildings
- Residential new 1-2 family dwelling
- Manufactured home
- Renovation to house or accessory buildings
- Deck & porch permit
- Residential accessory building (Building)
- Residential accessory building (Zoning)
- Fence permit
- Residential solar permit
- Pool and hot tub permit
Step 2: Submit your application
Cumberland County prefers online filing, though in-person help is available.
Apply through the Cumberland County permit portal (EnerGov) and upload plans.
For questions or counter help, contact Planning & Inspections (910-321-6636).
Step 3: Plan review (if applicable)
After intake, the Planning & Inspections department routes your record to the right reviewers. Building Inspections coordinates review and may involve Planning/Zoning, Fire, and Environmental Health, depending on the scope. Any requests for corrections will be posted to your portal record for resubmittal.
Step 4: Pay fees and receive your permit
When approved, you’ll be prompted to pay and print the permit. Post the permit on site.
Step 5: Begin work and request inspections
Use the portal to request inspections at the required milestones. From your permit record, go to Request an Inspection, or call Planning & Inspections if you need help (910-678-7600).
Cumberland County permitting resources
- Cumberland County Planning & Inspections Department
- Address: 130 Gillespie Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301
- Phone: 910-678-7600
- Fax: 910-678-7631
- Email: cumberlandplanning@cumberlandcountync.gov
- Online Permit Portal
- Cumberland County permit search
- Cumberland County building permit application
- Planning applications & forms
- Fee schedule
- Building permits document
- Single trade permits
- All other permits
- Request an inspection
- Planning & inspections FAQs
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