Some counties welcome barndominiums, but metro and suburban areas may restrict them.
The NC Building Code Council adopts state codes. The Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) provides administrative support. All counties must enforce state codes.
Primary Code
NC State Building Codes
Code Version
2018 IBC / 2018 IRC with NC amendments (2024 codes in process)
Adoption Level
Statewide
Statewide Enforcement
Yes
All 100 counties enforce building codes. Rural counties tend to process permits faster.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Farm buildings used for bona fide farm purposes may be exempt from building permits. The land must qualify as a farm under NC General Statutes.
Small detached structures under certain thresholds may be exempt.
Coastal counties have high wind requirements up to 160 mph. Mountain counties have higher snow loads. Low-to-moderate seismic risk in western NC.
Wind Load
100–160 mph
high zone
Snow Load
5–30 psf
Seismic
A–C
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
NC Energy Conservation Code
Version
2018 IECC with NC amendments
Energy code enforced statewide.
License Type
NC Licensing Board for General Contractors license
Project Threshold
$30,000
NC requires licensing for general contractors on projects over $30,000.
Front
25–40 ft
Side
10–20 ft
Rear
15–30 ft
Varies by county and zoning district.
Red clay soils in piedmont require attention. Sandy soils on the coast. Rocky soils in the mountains.
Permits required statewide. Rural counties process faster.
Agricultural exemptions available for bona fide farms.
Growing acceptance in rural counties. Suburban areas may have aesthetic restrictions.
Standard permit requirements.
Full NC building code compliance required.
HOAs common in Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, and coastal communities. Metal buildings restricted in most HOA developments. Rural piedmont and mountain land more available.
Extensive coastal flood zones. Riverine flooding in piedmont and mountain areas.
Key counties with specific permit information for North Carolina.
Full code enforcement. Active building department.
Typical fees: $500 – $4,000
Full enforcement. Thorough plan review.
Typical fees: $500 – $4,000
Coastal wind loads. Full enforcement.
Typical fees: $400 – $3,500
Mountain county. Higher snow loads. Full enforcement.
Typical fees: $400 – $3,000
Rural county south of Raleigh. More flexible. Good for barndominiums.
Typical fees: $300 – $2,000
Ag Exemption AvailableVerify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
