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NORTH CAROLINA

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News and Updates

Please check this page frequently for updated information on new codes and interpretations, for upcoming changes in Building Department policies and procedures, and for general information helpful to you as a professional builder ENoticeor homeowner/builder.

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Requirements for Detached Garages, Storage Buildings and Other Residential Accessory Structures less than 1000 Sq. Ft.

Jul 14, 2008
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REQUIREMENTS FOR DETACHED GARAGES,  STORAGE BUILDINGS, AND OTHER RESIDENTIAL ACCESSORY STRUCTURES LESS THAN 1000 SQ.FT. 

Building permit applications may be submitted during all normal business hours at the Building Inspections Office.  Before doing so, please review the following checklist of important information that will help you comply with NC Building Code requirements. 

  • Remember that any building that requires a Building Permit will require some type of inspection(s) to be performed.
  • Building Permits are required for all accessory buildings with any dimension greater than 12 feet.
  • Accessory buildings less than 400 sq.ft. in area and not more than one story in height do not require conventional concrete or masonry foundations, but must be anchored down at all four corners and be supported on approved pressure treated wood.
  • Accessory buildings over 400 sq.ft. in area or one story in height do require conventional concrete or masonry foundations, which must be inspected prior to pouring concrete. 
  • Plans are not required for detached, single story, residential storage buildings, garages, or similar unoccupied structures, 1000 square feet or less in area, and built by conventional construction methods. 
  • Pole buildings and manufactured metal buildings over 400 sq.ft. require design by a North Carolina licensed engineer or architect.
  • You must fill out completely and submit a Gaston County Residential Building Permit Application.  An application can be obtained at the Building  Inspections office, or may be downloaded from our website  (http://gcwebinternet/BuildingInspections/index.htm).  Please read each request for  information carefully so that you can provide the correct information.  This will  help us to process your application accurately.