Inspections Division

The permit office has experienced significant increases in the volume of applications received during the past few months. As a result, review times and permit issuance may be delayed. Please be patient as we try to serve you during this hectic time. We understand that your permit is of utmost importance, and we are working diligently to get it out to you. Please watch for our e-mails and other updates on the Planning and Development Services website.

Commercial and Multifamily Building Permits

To submit applications for commercial building permits and multifamily residential building permits, click here.

Single Family Building Permits

Single Family Building Permits (new construction, alterations, and additions; etc) must be submitted through our electronic plan review system, “IDT”.

For additional information, click here.

Zoning Boards of Adjustment

Due to COVID19, the zoning board members have amended the Rules of Procedures and the petitioner for a consent renewal is no longer required to attend the Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting.  However, if there is opposition at the meeting when your case is heard, the case will be continued to the next meeting and you or a representative for the case will be required to attend to next scheduled meeting.

Procedure changes to minimize the threat of COVID-19

• URGENT - Changes to requested inspections, effective immediately (PDF)
• Walk-ins WILL NOT be accepted.
• Commercial and sign applications are only accepted through IDT (digital plan submittal).
• Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing permits can be obtained through BuildIT (online permitting system) or over the phone. Refrigeration permits can be obtained over the phone.
• Inspections can be scheduled through a contractor’s BuildIT account or over the phone.

For general questions, scheduling, or over the phone permitting, please contact the permit office at 336-727-2624.

About Inspections

The Inspections Division of the Planning and Development Services Department is a City-County agency responsible for reviewing and inspecting building and zoning related activities throughout Forsyth County, with the exception of the town/city limits of High Point, Kernersville and King. Our staff reviews plans and issues permits for electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and building activities consistent with the codes adopted by the State of North Carolina.

Additionally, our staff completes plan review, issues permits, and enforces zoning regulations consistent with the adopted zoning codes (Unified Development Ordinances) of:

• Clemmons
• Forsyth County
• Lewisville
• Walkertown
• Winston-Salem

Inspector Cell Phone Policy

The City of Winston-Salem has enacted a cell phone policy restricting the use of a City-issued cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. Therefore, if you attempt to reach one of our inspectors by phone and they do not answer, please leave them a message and they will return your call as soon as possible.

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