Plans Review

Before construction begins, Plan Review/Plan Examiners determine whether the plans for the building or other structure comply with the building code regulations and whether they are suited to the engineering and enviromental demands of the building site.

Construction and Building Inspectors 

These inspectors examine buildings and other structures to ensure that their construction, alteration, or repair complies with building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications. Building codes and standards are the primary means by which building construction is regulated in the United States for the health and safety of the general public. To monitor compliance with regulations, inspections are done during various phase of construction. Building Inspectors inspect the structural quality and general safety of buildings. They inspect the positioning and depth of the footings, foundations, framing, insulation, and slabs. Upon completion of the project, they make a final, comprehensive inspection.

Mechanical Inspectors 

Mechanical Inspectors inspect the installation of the mechanical components of commercial kitchen appliances, heating and air-conditioning equipment, gasoline and butane tanks, gas and oil piping, and gas-fired and oil-fired appliances. Some specialize in boilers or ventilating equipment as well.

 ELECTRICAL INSPECTORS

Electrical Inspectors examine the installation of electrical systems and equipment to ensure that they function properly and comply with electrical codes and standards. They visit worksites to inspect new and existing sound and security systems, wiring, lighting, motors, and generating equipment. They also inspect the installation of the electrical wiring for heating and air-conditioning systems, appliances, and other components.

PLUMBING INSPECTORS

Plumbing Inspectors examine plumbing systems, including private disposal systems, water supply and distribution systems, plumbing fixtures and traps, and drain, waste, and vent lines. They inspect plumbing installations, and ensure that the state plumbing code is updated and distributed. They inform plumbers, inspection departments, and the public of code requirements, new products and methods of installation. They utilize seminars and the media to provide information of the board's activities, recommendations and requirements. 

FRONT OFFICE(ZONING OFFICERS)

The Zoning Officer is the first municipal official with whom the typical property owner meets in the process of making an application to do something with his land. The officer is the one designated to enforce its zoning provisions. It is the Zoning Officer to whom an application for a zoning permit is made and by whom such permits are issued. Zoning permits are generally needed for all new construction; including, but not limited to buildings, additions, driveways, garages, all accessory structures such as sheds and swimming pools, porches, decks, etc., and in addition, new businesses, store occupancies and building uses of all kind, signs, awnings, sidewalks, etc. Permits are also needed for obtaining non-conforming uses and certificates of occupancy. They issue a permit or certificate of use and occupancy in connection with any contemplated erection, construction, alteration, extension, replacement, demolition, relocation, conversion or use of any building, structure, sign, or land. The Zoning Department is responsible for zoning administration and enforcement. The Zoning Officer is responsible for reviewing various plans and the issuance of those applicable permits. 

FRONT OFFICE (CUSTOMER SERVICE CLERKS) 

As a part of our front office team, their responsibilities include the issuance of all trade permits required for any job, inspection requests, reviewing permit applications to ensure that all required data is complete and accurate, and answer inquiries from the general public and contractors concerning permit procedures and costs. They assist the customer in finalizing their permit from start to completion of the job. 

FRONT OFFICE (ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARIES) 

The Administrative Secretaries' responsibilities include the intake and processing of the Zoning Board of Adjustment applications, which include Special Use Permits, Variances and Appeals. They also serve as our receptionists, and first point of contact for phone and walk-in customers. 

INSPECTIONS RECORD SPECIALIST

This position is responsible for all updates and web content maintenance in the Inspections Division. Performs responsible technical work coordinating, monitoring, filing, researching and reporting for building, zoning and erosion control enforcement data. Ensures that complete and accurate documents and reports are provided to authorized persons or agencies on a daily and monthly basis. Assists customer with inspectnet activities and other questions they may have. Coordinates the preparations of customer notices and administrative meetings. Assists in the compilation of data to provide information neeed for strategic planning.

Erosion Control  

Erosion Control Inspectors follow local regulations to safeguard persons, protect property, and prevent damage to the environment. They follow the ordinance to promote the public welfare by guiding, regulating, and controlling the design, construction, use, and maintenance of any development or other activity that disturbs or breaks the topsoil or results in the movement of earth on land. Inspections are required and either approved for that portion of the work completed or the inspector shall notify the permittee wherein the work fails to comply with the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan as approved. Plans for grading, stripping, excavating, and filling work bearing the stamp of approval shall be maintained at the site during the progress of the work.

Administration

The Administrative Section provides general support, direction & management for the Inspections Division involving work priorities, procedures, policies, personnel matters, training, budgeting, procurement and records management. Administrative staff provides support for and coordination with various other departments or agencies and higher levels of management such as City/County Managers, City Council and County Commissioners. The staff is also is responsible for providing support for the Zoning Boards of Adjustments, and making decisions & interpretations regarding the enforcement of building and land use regulations.

Zoning Officers

Zoning inspects for compliance with the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). This task is accomplished in many ways, from inspecting new commercial construction to resolving complaints. New construction inspections may include parking areas, bufferyards, streetyards, and any conditions placed on a project by an elected or appointed board. Complaint resolution involves investigating complaints received, determining if violations exist and bringing that property into compliance with various enforcement methods. 

Fire Department

The Plans Review/ New Construction Section of the Fire Prevention Bureau is assigned to the Bryce A. Stewart Municipal Building at the City Inspections Division. This fire department section receives new construction plans and fire protection plans to be reviewed for fire code compliance. This section is also responsible for inspecting new and up-fitted facilities to ensure the facilities are in compliance with the NC Fire Prevention Code and its referenced standards. Fire protection systems, such as fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems, are tested and inspected by this section prior to being placed into service.