Frequently Asked Questions-Planning

Planning and Zoning FAQs:

 I want to put up a fence, do I need a Permit? 

Fences permits are required in the Town of Zebulon. Fence height restrictions can be found in this section of our UDO. With residential fence height not to exceed 6 feet maximum.  You will complete a Zoning Compliance Permit to erect a fence.  The application is reviewed by staff for completeness and the application should have supporting documentation such as a plot plan or site map indicating where the fence structure will be placed and setbacks from the property line.  The standard setback is 5’ from the property line in each direction on the lot.    

• Exceptions: Situations where a permit may not be needed (e.g., specific height restrictions or temporary fences, and absence of HOA requirements).

• Related Regulations: Reference of the Town of Zebulon UDO for more on Zoning Compliance and Table 5.5.5 (below) and section 9.3.15 for allowable Fence heights.

  

Great, How Do I Apply for a Zoning Compliance Permit to erect my fence?

• Create an account on our permit portal: HERE
• Apply using a Zoning Compliance Application: HERE

Required Documents: 

• Plot plan depicting placement of fence on your lot. Using a most recent survey is encouraged!
• Indicate proposed placement with setbacks (distances) from property lines identified.
• Rendering showing the material compositions to be used for proposed fence.

Processing Time: 2 weeks per review cycle. 

Application Fees: $75 

Important Note: Homeowners/Property owners associations may impose stricter regulations regarding erecting a fence and/or other structures within their assigned communities.  These regulations can and may supersede what the Town of Zebulon will enforce. Please ensure an open line of communication with your HOA to ensure your fence is in compliance with your local covenants. 

Do I need a building permit?  Where do I apply?

A building permit is typically required for construction, renovation, or demolition projects to ensure compliance with local building codes, zoning laws, and safety regulations. The specific requirements vary by location, but in general, a permit is required for new construction, major renovation or construction projects, electrical and plumbing changes, structural changes ect. All the Towns building permits are outsourced and administered by Wake County.  Access to the Wake County portal can be: HERE. 

• Types of Projects: Examples of specific projects that may need building permits include but not limited to: new construction, major renovation, construction projects, electrical and plumbing permits.

• Exceptions: Structures that do not exceed 12’ by 12’ in height or width typically bypass the building permit process.  It is always best to reach out to the planning department if unsure your project will meet the need to apply for a building permit. 

   More information on the Wake County building permit process can be found HERE: (https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/planning-development-inspec…)

   

  ---

  How do I know what is coming to Zebulon?

The Town of Zebulon has an Interactive Development Map which offers an inside peek into development applications and pending projects submitted to the Town of Zebulon for review.  Some information that can be found on our webpage that is updated regularly can include:

• Proposed Development-Information on proposed development activities

• Updates and Revisions: Information and insight to the development status of subject project. 

   

  Up to date information for public hearings can be found HERE

  ---

The Interactive Development map can be found HERE: 

Interactive Development Map | Town of Zebulon, NC

Where can I find information on upcoming public meetings?

The town of Zebulon post upcoming public meetings on the Town Meetings Calander on the Town website and can be accessed HERE 

How can I find more information about my property details?

For properties located in Wake County only, Imaps is useful source for identifying unique property details specific to properties across Wake County.  In the search bar you have to ability to search properties by address and or by municipality to filter certain attributes by layers such as zoning, corporate limits, flood zones, register of deeds information, building footprint information and a host of other helpful tools.  Access to Imaps can be found HERE. (https://maps.raleighnc.gov/imaps/)

Also a FAQ link with helpful tips for navigating Imaps HERE

I would like to clear trees for development, who do I contact for permitting?

Tree cutting and land clearing permits are handled by Wake County Soil and Erosion Control.  More information on required permitting can be found HERE. 

Telecommunication Towers

The town of Zebulon requires a Zoning Compliance permit for Telecommunication Tower work that will disturb land.  Any non-disturbance of land will not require a zoning permit (land use) but will require have to proceed with the electrical permit process which is administered by Wake County.  Access to the Wake County Permitting Portal can be found HERE.

More information on electrical permit process with Wake County can be found HERE. 

I would like to erect a sign for my business.  What is the process?

The Town of Zebulon reviews signs for compliance with the Towns Standards. The purpose of this application form is to provide a uniform mechanism for reviewing applications for sign permits in compliance with Section 2.2.18 of the UDO and to ensure all signs comply with the standards of Section 5.11, Signage.

  Sign permit applications can be found HERE. 

When sign permit not required?

Pursuant to section 5.11.4 the following signs are considered exclusions

I want to start a business in Zebulon, where can I find more resources?

Resources for prospective business owners can be found HERE

I would like to have chickens, in my yard are they allowed?

Chickens, considered animal husbandry and must adhere to standards outlined in 4.3.7.C. of the Town of Zebulon UDO.  Chickens are only allowed outside corporate limits.  See animal husbandry use specific standard below:

Where Can I find more information on Affordable Housing Resources?