Commercial Inspections Process

To help make the process of submitting plans easier, the Sanford/Lee County Inspections Division offers this set of project review sheets. Spending a few minutes reviewing this checklist prior to your submittal will help expedite your project through the review process.

Commercial (Non-Residential) Inspection and Permit Submittal Process

Commercial also referred to as Non-Residential, is a permit type and process that requires reviews, approvals, and inspections for the development, alteration, addition, change of use, upfit of a property developed for industry, business, retail, apartments, hotel, etc.

Non-Residential permits are “All Trade” permits that encompass the trades as well (electrical, mechanical & plumbing) all in one permit.

Commercial Projects Plan Submittal

Central Intake consolidates the approvals for the permitting of the Building Inspections, Planning & Zoning and Fire departments for commercial new construction, alterations, additions and renovations with simultaneous reviews. 

Applicants simply apply for the appropriate building permit online through the CSS Portal, where each step will guide you through the requirements. 

Properties that may require Environmental Health Approval, will need to additionally visit the Lee County website at www.leecountync.gov to make application for Environmental Health services. 

Standalone Fire permits such as fire alarms, suppression systems, etc. will need to be made as separate permits through the CSS Portal and not part of the building permit.

Is your project located in part of a Historic District?

If so, you will be required to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historic Preservation  Commission. The contact number for Historic Preservation is 919-718-4657 ext 5393.

Applying for a Commercial (Non-Residential) permit is easy, please visit our online permitting portal (CSS Portal) by clicking the link below. If you do not have a current account in our portal, you will be prompted to create an account. In the CSS Portal, you will be able to manage your project; status, reviews, attachments, permits, invoices and inspections.

For a complete submittal the following will need to be completed at the time of online submission:

• All plans will need to be digital and uploaded into our portal. Plans that are approved, will be digitally stamped and available online.
• All Commercial (Non-Residential) construction must comply with the current N.C. State Building Code.
• Be prepared to identify the General and Trade Contractors in the submittal. An application can be deemed incomplete without the contractors identified. Verification of Contractors and their licenses is part of the plan review process.
• If the project construction valuation is over $40,000.00, please be prepared to upload a copy of the Lien Agent.
• Be prepared to complete and upload a worker’s comp form. Please do not attach other jurisdictions or personal insurance coverage forms, they will not be accepted.

Commercial Inspection Process

Once a permit has been issued, you can easily manage your inspections and their results from your CSS Online Portal account. The portal is a convenient way to schedule required inspections, upload third party letters, and review inspection results.

Please note: Rough in and final inspections are considered “all trades.” When scheduling an all-trades rough in or final inspection, be aware that we will inspect the building and all trades associated with the project at the same time.

Commercial Projects Plan Submittal Requirements

Plans must be complete relative to the requirements listed below when submitted for permit review. Incomplete plans will be returned. Major revisions which require a re-review after permit issuance may cause the permit to be voided and require a new submittal and be subject to additional fees.

Project review time depends on the complexity of the project. Incomplete plans will result in a delay of permit issuance.