Planning & Zoning

The Planning & Inspections Departments are responsible for regulating and managing the physical growth and development of the Town, with an emphasis on economic vitality, community character, environmental integrity, sound land use, and legal compliance. Under the umbrella title of “Community Development Services” the Planning Department and the Inspections Department are located in Room 202 of the Clayton Center, 111 E. Second Street. The Department can be reached by phone at 919-553-1545.

The Planning Department programs include short and long term land use planning, zoning enforcement for all building and development activities, and Downtown Economic Development. Staff includes Planning Director Skip Browder, Town Planning Charlie Yokley, Zoning Enforcement Officer Dede Bumgarner, and Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen.

The Inspections Department is responsible for building plan review and site inspections as necessary to ensure legal compliance with the standards of the North Carolina Building Code and enforcement of the Town of Clayton Minimum Housing Code for existing residential properties. Any person seeking to construct, remodel, demolish, or transport any building or structure in the Town of Clayton or its Extraterritorial Area must consult with the Inspections Department prior to initiating any work. A Building Permit will be required for most all projects and submittal and approval of detailed architectural plans will be necessary prior to issuance of a Building Permit.

Duties of the Department include:

Review of proposed commercial and residential development plans and sites to ensure compliance with Town ordinances, policies, character, and development patterns.
Plan for the physical needs of the community including creation of, plans, policies and programs to ensure orderly growth.
Review proposed building plans and inspection of new construction for compliance with North Carolina Building Code requirements.
Enhance community safety and appearance through the enforcement of building and housing related codes aimed at maintenance of the structural integrity of the buildings with in the Town's jurisdiction.
Administer development related codes and ordinances such as zoning, subdivision, and minimum housing.
Perform research and prepare reports related to community development priorities for use by decision-makers in evaluation of individual projects or proposals.
Coordinate local planning efforts with regional and state-wide agencies
Serve as administrative and technical support for the Town Council and advisory groups such as the Planning Board and Board of Adjustment.
Encourage new and expanded investment in the Town of Clayton, with a focus on redevelopment and adaptive reuse of Downtown properties.

Important Reference Links-

Zoning Code
Zoning Map
Town Limits & ETJ Map