Zoning Compliance

Step 1.Zoning Verification

You can check the zoning of your property using our online zoning map. In addition to our on-line zoning maps, the Zoning team is also available to assist with inquiries on the zoning of property.

Zoning verification letters regarding existing zoning and permitted uses can be issued for a fee of $25.

Step 2.Certificate of Zoning Compliance

A certificate of zoning compliance is an official determination of the zoning of a lot, including whether the existing or proposed land use(s) are compliant. Types of determinations include:

• Principal uses and structures
• Accessory uses, buildings, and structures
• Signs

The fee for a Certificate of Zoning Compliance is $25.

Step 3.Flood Certification

Flood zones that are designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) affect parts of the city. Requests regarding the flood insurance rate map (FIRM) are handled by zoning staff.

There is no fee for a floodplain certification.

Step 4.Zoning Determination

Official determinations, including interpretations of the Land Development Code, may be issued by the Zoning Administrator upon request.

The fee for a Zoning Determination is $25.

Step 1.Complaints

Zoning compliance staff investigate all complaints of potential violations of the Land Development Code. Complaints may be filed in person, via telephone, via email to the Zoning team, or through our online complaint form.

Our officers also initiate investigations of potential violations based on their observations in the field.

Step 2.Certificates of Occupancy

While building permits are issued by New Hanover County, a Certificate of Occupancy cannot be issued until one of our compliance officers inspects the work and determines the final product complies with the approved permit and Land Development Code regulations.

Step 1.Fee Amount

• Zoning Verification Letter: $25
• Certificate of Zoning Compliance: $25
• Zoning Determination: $25
• Zoning Re-Inspection: $25

Step 2.Payment Options

If you plan to pay in advance, planning staff must first notify the collections department to enable acceptance of payments.

Payment by Phone (910. 343.4745)

• 8 am to 5 pm (Monday through Friday except for holidays)
• Limited to VISA and MasterCard payments.

Payment in Person

• 8 am to 5 pm (Monday through Friday except for holidays)
• Billing & Collections Office
  Skyline Center
  929 North Front Street, 1st Floor

Payment by Mail

• Please include invoice number or account number
• Regular Mail
  City of Wilmington Collections
  PO Box 1810
  Wilmington, NC 28402
• Express Mail
  City of Wilmington Collections

  929 North Front Street, 1st Floor
  Wilmington, NC 28401