New single-family home projects require a Residential Project Application Packet and should be submitted directly through the CSS Online Portal. An accurate and clearly legible site plan must also be submitted. A to-scale site plan completed by a licensed land surveyor is always encouraged, and may be required in certain circumstances. Single-family homes include all site- or stick-built homes, modular homes, and accessory dwellings (second homes).

For projects that involve a manufactured home, refer to the Guide for Manufactured Homes, as that is a slightly different review process.

Permit Application Review Process

This process is for any new home construction.

• Complete the Residential Project Application Packet
  • This includes all documentation required for Building Permitting/Inspections review, Planning/Zoning review, and, if necessary, Lee County Environmental Health review.
• Prepare a site plan that illustrates the complete footprint of the new home and include that with your packet submittal.
• The site plan should also include:
  • the distance between the structure and the front, rear, and side property lines
  • the location of the proposed or existing driveway
  • the location of the proposed or existing septic tank (if applicable)

Submit your completed Residential Project Application Packet and Site Plan online using the CSS Online Portal.

For further information on Building Inspections or Building Permits, contact the Permitting/Inspections Division of the Community Development Department.

For further information on septic permits, contact Lee County Environmental Health.

Helpful Information for Applicants

Minimum Building Setbacks

A minimum building setback is the minimum distance a structure can be built from a property line. In other words: how far a structure must be set back from a property line. Minimum building setbacks will vary by zoning district, so be sure to check the Lee County GIS Interactive Map to find your zoning district, or contact the Department of Community Development (zoning@sanfordnc.net or 919-718-4656) for further information.

If your proposed new home, new addition, or new accessory building is within five feet of a minimum setback line (e.g., if the minimum building setback is 15 feet and your new home is between  15 and 20 feet away from the property line) then you must either have a to-scale site plan completed by a licensed design professional (surveyor, civil engineer, landscape architect) or have a licensed surveyor locate the corners of your property and verify that setbacks are met with the Community Development Department in writing (email is preferred).

The following building features may encroach into building setbacks, per UDO §4.7.3.1:

• bay windows or other structural overhangs, not to exceed three (3) feet,
• chimneys, not to exceed two (2) feet,
• heating and cooling units, not to exceed three (3) feet,
• overhanging roof, eave, gutter, cornice, or other architectural feature and awnings, not to exceed two (2) feet,
• steps, stairs, or fire escapes (non-enclosed), not to exceed six (6) feet.

Easements

Please be aware of any easements located on your property and be sure they're located before starting construction of your home. Click here for more information on easements.

Accessory Structures (Sheds, Barns, Storage Buildings, and Other Outbuildings)

Accessory structures must be permitted separately from a new single-family dwelling. If a new home and accessory structure are planned and construction is intended to begin simultaneously, both projects can be included on the same site plan. More information can about accessory buildings can be found here.

Accessory Structures (Sheds, Barns, Storage Buildings, and Other Outbuildings)

Accessory structures must be permitted separately from a new single-family dwelling. If a new home and accessory structure are planned and construction is intended to begin simultaneously, both projects can be included on the same site plan. More information can about accessory buildings can be found here.

Utilizing a Camper/RV as a Dwelling

Campers/RVs (also known as motor homes, travel trailers, etc.) are not permitted for use as a permanent dwelling. In accordance with §5.34.2.10 of our Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), campers or RVs are permitted to be used as temporary dwellings while a new home is being constructed or an existing home is being repaired. A Temporary Use Permit is required in conjunction with an active building permit for the new home construction or repair work being done.

When submitting a Zoning Clearance Permit Application to the CSS Online Portal for the construction of a new home or repair to an existing home, include the Temporary Use Permit Application as an attachment so they applications can be reviewed and approved together.