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1. I want to start a new business in Carrboro. Where do I start?

We're happy to hear this and are available to assist you however we can in your endeavor. You can learn about the basics of starting a new business in 10-steps at our New Business Resource Center. We also would encourage you to seek the free business assistance from the Small Business Center at Durham Tech, Small Business and Technical Development Center at UNC, or SCORE Chapel Hill Durham. These resources can provide one-on-one consulting to help you specifically tailor your business plan to your idea. Still have questions? Contact our Department at 919-918-7319.

2. Do I need a license from the Town to open a new business?

Generally, no, you do not need a business license from the Town to open a new business. You will need to make sure to have your business registered with the State of North Carolina. If you are selling beer or wine, you will need to get a license from the Town.

3. Where can I find available properties for new or relocating businesses?

Because of the quickly changing status of commercial properties, the Town does not provide a database of available properties for public viewing. As you look for space, feel free to reach out to our staff at 919-918-7319 or by email at EconDev@CarrboroNC.gov and let us know what building/site requirements you are looking for (square footage, utility needs, location or neighborhood preferences, preferred lease terms, etc) and we'll be happy to share available properties with you!

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1. Does your department check and install car seats for children?

Yes! Due to COVID-19 are currently inspecting and installing car seats for children on an appointment basis. Fill out the Child Passenger Safety Inspection Request form to schedule an appointment, or visit our Child Car Seat Installation page for more information.

2. How do I order a reflective address sign?

Reflective address signs are very important for emergency services. If we can't find you, we can't help you. Locating addresses can be especially tricky at night. Order a reflective address sign today. Signs are only $15 or $20 if mounted to a metal post. Use this form to order your reflective address sign. The signs are made at the fire-rescue department and you will be contacted once it is ready for pick-up.

3. Does your department check and install smoke alarms and/or carbon monoxide detectors?

As a part of our Community Risk Reduction program the Fire-Rescue Department installs smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for residents of Carrboro and the South Orange Fire District. Smoke alarms provide early notifications increasing the likelihood that you and your family will be able to escape if there is a fire in your home. Submit this form to schedule installation or inspection of a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm.

4. How can I apply for a fire prevention permit?

The Carrboro Fire-Rescue Department issues construction and operational permits in accordance with applicable state laws and the currently adopted edition of the North Carolina Fire Code. For more information regarding permits, reference Section 105 of the North Carolina Fire Code and in Chapter 12, Article II, Section 12-10 of the Town Code. You can apply for a fire prevention permit by submitting this form.

Reminder: Any plans for review (electrical, remodeling, fire alarm, sprinkler system) should be submitted to Town of Carrboro Planning, Zoning, and Inspections through PIPER prior to contacting the Fire-Rescue Department.

5. How to I schedule a fire prevention education event or fire station tour? Birthday Party? Other events?

Public Education Event

We provide public education events, including fire prevention presentations. Use this form to request a public education event for your group or organization.

Station Tours

We regularly give station tours and safety talks to all types of groups, both formal and informal. Some of the groups we have had come through in the past include school classes, girl scouts, boy scouts, church groups, day care groups, after school programs, summer camp groups, home school students, and many individuals. Use this form to request a fire station tour.

Birthday and Block Parties

If you are planning a community block party or birthday party our department will stop by during the event with a fire truck for all to see up close - both adults and children. We can show and explain the use and importance of the many pieces of equipment, display our gear, discuss fire safety topics, and distribute fire safety information. Use this form to request the department come out to your birthday or block party.

Other Events

View our Community Services page to see what other services are offered by the fire-rescue department. Forms are available to request all of the services offered by the department.

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1. What are your hours of operation?

The Town Hall reception desk is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

2. Can I change my voter registration information at Town Hall?

No; however, there are voter registration forms in the reception area of Town Hall, 301 W. Main Street, that can be mailed in to the Orange County Board of Elections. For more information about voting and voter registration, visit the Orange County Board of Elections’ website: http://www.co.orange.nc.us/elect/index.asp.

3. Can I pay my property taxes at Town Hall?

No. Carrboro residents can pay their property taxes through the Orange County Tax Collector at 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Chapel Hill or through the main office in Hillsborough. For more information, visit their website: http://www.co.orange.nc.us/revenue/ContactUs.asp.

4. How can I schedule a field trip to Town Hall, the Fire Department or Police Department?

Just fill out this form and we will contact you: http://www.townofcarrboro.org/FormCenter/Town-Managers-Office-20/Request-a-Field-Trip-to-Town-Hall-101

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1. Can the Town help if my landlord won’t make necessary repairs?

The Town has limited authority to intercede in disputes between tenants and landlords, but can assist in assessing the condition of the rental unit if a housing code violation is suspected. Contact Town of Carrboro Housing and Community Services if you are having trouble with your housing situation.

2. My landlord is . . . threatening eviction, discriminating against me, refusing to return my security deposit, etc. What can I do?

Email HousingHelp@orangecountync.gov if you are experiencing a housing crisis.

Know your rights. 

Orange County North Carolina Declaration of Tenant Rights and Obligations

Tenant Rights 

 Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance

 Fair Housing Project – Know Your Rights

If you believe you’ve experienced housing discrimination, think you are being discriminated against, contact the Orange County Human Rights & Relations department, 919-245-2487 or Human_Relations@orangecountync.gov

 File a complaint.

 

3. Where can I find affordable housing in Carrboro?

If you’re looking for an affordable apartment, The Housing Opportunity Finder can assist in the search. In addition to properties owned by nonprofit affordable housing providers, it also includes existing apartment complexes, many of which offer lower rents.

If you’re looking for affordable homeownership, the Town has compiled a list of nonprofit affordable housing providers, who not only provide housing affordability, but also ensure the property remains affordable well into the future.  Many of the nonprofits listed also own and manage rental homes and apartments. 

The Town’s Community Resources page can also point you to other housing-related resources.

4. Are there resources for needs other than housing, like food assistance?

Yes. The Orange County Health Department provides a list of resources and you can search the OC Connect database specifically for your needs.  Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness also has a comprehensive resource guide.

5. I own my own home, but I can’t afford the repairs it needs. What can I do?

The Orange County Home Preservation Coalition (OCHPC) is a collaborative of organizations that provide home repairs, weatherization and disability or aging in place modifications to low-income Orange County residents, many of whom are older adults.  You can apply online or email Ryan Lavalley (rlavalley@orangecountync.gov) for more information.

6. I’m having trouble paying my rent. Is there assistance available?

Yes. Carrboro partners with Orange County and the Towns of Chapel Hill and Hillsborough to provide Emergency Housing Assistance to eligible households.  Applications are online and can also be obtained by calling the Housing Helpline at 919-245-2655 or by emailing HousingHelp@orangecountync.gov.

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1. When is a permit required?

When is it necessary to obtain a building permit? Well, the answer is almost always. A permit is required anytime work is done on a building or structure, or the systems serving the structure (including plumbing, mechanical, and electrical wiring) with a few exceptions, including the following.

The North Carolina State Building Code states, "No person, firm or corporation shall erect, construct, enlarge, install, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish any building, structure, or service system without first obtaining a permit for such from the Inspections Department having jurisdiction."

Everyday projects requiring permits include:

1. Converting a residence to a business
2. Constructing a deck, screened porch, or sunroom
3. Installing an irrigation system
4. Installing a swimming pool
5. Adding a ceiling fan
6. Finishing an attic or basement
7. Replacing a furnace or air conditioner
8. Installing gas logs, attic fans, skylights

Questions? Call 919-918-7336 or visit the Inspections and Permits Division located in Town Hall at 301 West Main Street.

2. When is a permit not required?

A permit is not required for:

1. Replacement of water heaters in the same location with the same fuel source by a licensed plumber on a Single Family Dwelling
2. Replacement of non-structural, cosmetic building elements, such as: floor and wall coverings; moldings and trim; cabinets and casework; roof coverings with same materials, etc.
3. Accessory buildings that are no more than 12 feet in any dimension
4. Replacement of electrical fixtures and components when work is not done within the wall or ceiling cavity or behind the finished wall or ceiling surface.
5. Replacement of plumbing fixtures when the work does not go beyond the trap seal
6. Installation of low voltage exterior landscape lighting

Questions? Call 919-918-7336 or visit the Inspections and Permits Division located in Town Hall 301 West Main Street.

3. What are the Inspections office hours?

The Inspections office is open Monday - Friday, from 8am-4:30pm. Inspectors are out in the field from 9:30am-3:30pm, and are typically in the office from 8am-9:30am, 11:30am-1:30pm and 3:30pm-4:30pm daily.

4. Where is the Inspections office located?

We are located at 301 W. Main St., Carrboro, NC 27510. Inspections is located on the second floor of Town Hall.

5. What will I need to obtain a building permit?

Building permits reviewed by the Inspections Division range from large to small. The following items may be required depending upon the kind of permit being sought: 

• Site plan(s) showing detailing the proposed changes to the property;
• Contractor names, addresses, and state license numbers for the particular trade or general contractor;
• Information pertaining to well & septic permits, if needed, from Orange County Environmental Health;
• Necessary documentation for related projects such as load calculations for Mechanical renovations or change-outs.
• Sealed Architectural and/or Engineering Plans as needed;
• For Commercial Permits, as needed: Appendix B from Building Code, Facilities Calculations, Water System Calculations.
• Relevant permit fees and forms as required by Inspections or Zoning; these can be found at the link below:

Related Documents and Forms

Please call Inspections if you have any questions about permits at 919-918-7336.

6. When is a plot plan or new survey required?

A plot plan or a new survey is required for all residential permits where the "footprint" of a primary or accessory building changes. This includes decks, porches, and storage buildings. However, staff does have the authority to waive the survey if the construction is obviously not near any setbacks or easements.

Modifications inside the existing building shell do not require a plot plan or survey.

7. Can I, as a homeowner, do my own work?

Yes, an owner of the property can do their own building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. The owner does not need to be licensed in any of these areas, nor does he need a Town of Carrboro privilege license. State law requires that the property be the owner's primary residence for at least 12 months after completion of the work. The owner cannot be General Contractor on rental property unless the construction costs are less than $30,000. If construction costs are less than $30,000, anyone can be the General Contractor.

8. How much will my permit cost?

Please see the Town of Carrboro Fee Schedule. Any questions, please contact 919-918-7336.

9. How can I access the building code?

Building codes can be obtained through the NC Department of Insurance at 919-661-5880.

10. Are there restrictions on availability of building permits?

There are currently no restrictions on obtaining building permits.

11. Can you tell me the process of obtaining a permit?

Permit Applications are managed through PIPER, the Town’s online permitting portal which can be accessed here:

PIPER Online Portal

PIPER application instructions can be found here:

PIPER Application Instructions

What Do You Need For A Permit?

Building permits reviewed by the Inspections Division range from large to small. The following items may be required depending upon the kind of permit being sought: 

• Site plan(s) showing detailing the proposed changes to the property;
• Contractor names, addresses, and state license numbers for the particular trade or general contractor;
• Information pertaining to well & septic permits, if needed, from Orange County Environmental Health;
• Necessary documentation for related projects such as load calculations for Mechanical renovations or change-outs.
• Sealed Architectural and/or Engineering Plans as needed;
• For Commercial Permits, as needed: Appendix B from Building Code, Facilities Calculations, Water System Calculations.
• Relevant permit fees and forms as required by Inspections or Zoning; these can be found at the link below:

Related Documents and Forms

The Permit Review process takes from 4 to 6 weeks for most projects at this time. During this time your project is reviewed for compliance with all applicable regulations and codes.  It is possible to receive your permit in less time depending upon the staff workload when your request is received and how complicated the project is.  

Please call Inspections if you have any questions about permits at 919-918-7336.  

Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

12. How can I schedule an inspection?

To schedule an inspection, call at least 24 hours in advance of the time you need the inspection. Call 919-918-7336, Monday - Friday, from 8am-4:30pm. The Inspectors will arrive in the morning or the afternoon, depending on how the inspection was scheduled.

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

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1. How do I get an address for a property if there isn't one already?

If the property is a new lot, you need to record it with Orange County Land Records. Orange County will assign a Property Identification Number (a PIN). When Carrboro Planning receives the PINs from Orange County, addresses are assigned for the properties and an address assignment letter goes out to the property owners, the post office, utilities, government entities, and 911. That letter creates the address and gets it into the 911 system.

If the property already exists and has a PIN, but has no address or has an address that is not in the 911 system, in which case you may have trouble getting cable or power or water hookup or the post office won't deliver your mail, you need to contact the Carrboro Planning Department (919-918-7328) to get an address assigned.

2. Can I change an address to a different street?

A building must be addressed on the street an emergency vehicle would use to drive to it. So if your house is addressed Main Street, but the only driving access to it is Boyd Street, the property should have a Boyd Street, not a Main Street, address.

If you want to change your address, contact the Planning Department (919-918-7328).

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1. What is a residential stormwater assessment?

An assessment is technical advice given to a homeowner regarding possible solutions to flooding, drainage, erosion, or other stormwater or stream related concerns. It consists of an onsite consultation with the assessment provider and a detailed report/assessment customized to the property and owner’s interests.

2. What are examples of stormwater concerns addressed by the assessment?

Examples of Stormwater-Related Concerns

• Flooding resulting in property damage or health/safety concerns
• Other drainage issues  (e.g., extended yard saturation)
• Eroding slopes or stream channels
• Stream buffers
• Water quality

3. Who was eligible for having an assessment completed?

Single family residential property owners within the Town’s municipal limits are eligible.

4. What types of practices, measures, or improvements were within the scope of what the assessor considered? What was outside the scope?

Within the Scope of the Assessment

• Green stormwater infrastructure such as rain gardens and bioswales.
• Impervious surface reduction or disconnection (dispersing rather than concentrating flow)
• Swale or ditch repairs
• Rainwater harvesting (cisterns and rain barrels)
• Vegetation additions or adaptations
• Building or mechanical system elevation adaptations
• A conceptual plan and assessment

 

Outside the Scope of the Assessment

• Recommending specific contractors
• More detailed design/engineering plans
• Project cost estimations
• Other project procurement or management assistance

5. Who provided the assessments?

Michael Dupree, an independent contractor, will be providing the assessments. He has extensive experience in stormwater and community outreach in Durham County and across North Carolina. He has been providing landscape, irrigation, stormwater and stream related consultation, and design services for Triangle residents since 1989.

6. Will this be offered in the future?

Maybe. This is a pilot project intended to guide future efforts.

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1. How do I reserve a meeting room at Town Hall?

To reserve a meeting room at Town Hall you should call 919-918-7300.

2. How can I access my court records?

Court records are handled by the NC Courts System and not at the local level. You should contact the Orange County Clerk of Court at (919) 644-4500.

3. Where do I find information related to my business license?

You should contact the Town's finance department at 919-918-7300. For more information see http://nc-carrboro.civicplus.com/268/Privilege-Licensing.

4. How can I find information on filing a Statement of Domestic Partnership?

Statements of Domestic Partnership can be filed with the Town Clerk by appointment only. Call 919-918-7309 to make an appointment. Please bring a photo ID for each party. The cost of filing is $40.00.

5. Where can I find information on my taxes?

Taxes are collected by Orange County. Please contact the Tax Department at (919) 245-2725.

6. When is the next Town Council meeting?

The Town Council generally meet on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Tuesday of every month except for July, August, and January. The Council also breaks after the first Tuesday in December.

7. What time do Town Council meetings start?

All meetings begin at 7:00 PM

8. How do I apply for the Sewer Connection Subsidy?

Procedure for Providing a Subsidy
for Sewer Connections for Existing Dwelling Units in Carrboro
(Established 9/2/1997. Amend. 3/9/1999, 1/25/2005. Amend 5/7/19.)

Purpose:
The Town of Carrboro created reserve of $120,000 over a six year period that was begun in 1995-96 to subsidize providing sewer to those existing dwelling units presently not served by OWASA. OWASA, in 1997, estimated that there were 160 units not served by sewer within the corporate limits of the Town of Carrboro.

Policy:
The Town of Carrboro will pay OWASA a subsidy of $2,000 per dwelling unit in existence as of January 25, 2005 on behalf of a property owner to cover any fees due to OWASA for the connection of a dwelling unit to a public sewer main. This subsidy will be paid for only existing dwelling units within the corporate limits of Carrboro that are not served by OWASA sewer at the effective date of this policy. This subsidy will be redeemed on first come first served basis as long as the established reserve and its accumulated interest exist.

For homes in Historic Rogers Road Neighborhood connecting to a public sewer main owned by Orange County and qualifying as low to moderate income, the entirety, 100%, of costs associated with the connection will be paid by Orange County for a period of two years from the effective date of this policy. For one additional year, the third year from the effective date of this policy, 50% of the costs associated with the connection will be paid by Orange County. The Town of Carrboro will reimburse Orange County 14% of the costs of the connection for this three year period or $34,020, whichever is less.

Following the three year period, the Town of Carrboro will pay Orange County a subsidy of $2,000 per dwelling unit in existence as of January 25, 2005 in Historic Rogers Road Neighborhood on behalf of a property owner to cover any fees due to Orange County for the connection of a dwelling unit to a public sewer main owned by the county for the duration of time the county remains the owner of the sewer main lines in the neighborhood. This subsidy will be redeemed on first come first served basis as long as the established reserve and its accumulated interest exist.

Procedure:
All eligible property owners who have contracted with OWASA to have their dwelling unit served by a public sewer and are interested in receiving the subsidy should contact the Town Clerk to complete a request for the subsidy. The Town Clerk will certify the eligibility of the request and notify OWASA. Upon receipt of an invoice, the Town will pay to OWASA $2,000 of the fees levied against the eligible property on behalf of the property owner.

For property in the Historic Rogers Road Neighborhood, Orange County shall invoice the Town of Carrboro for full or partial payment as specified above.

 919-918-7309