Home Additions, Decks, and Patios

As of January 21st, 2025, the City of Sanford, the Town of Broadway, and Lee County are now utilizing a central intake system to process permit applications for residential construction projects.

Residential additions decks, and other similar projects require a Residential Project Application Packet to be completed by the applicant and should be submitted directly through the CSS Self-Service Portal. An accurate and clearly legible site plan must also be submitted. A to-scale site plan completed by a licensed land surveyor is always encouraged, and may be required in certain circumstances. Single-family homes include all site- or stick-built homes, modular homes, and manufactured homes.

Home Additions

The following projects are considered a "home addition" and will typically require a building permit:

  • adding new square footage to an existing structure
  • converting any unheated space to heated space (e.g.: converting an attic into a bonus room)
  • adding a 2nd floor to an existing home
  • enclosing a carport or garage

Decks and Porches

New decks and porches being built onto an existing home would also be considered a home addition.  To ensure the safety and stability of the deck or porch, it's important to obtain property permits before beginning construction.

Patios

Patios are not considered permanent structures and typically do not require building permits. Please be aware of any underground utilities or easements on your property, and make sure your property lines are clearly marked before pouring concrete for a patio.

Permit Application Review Process

This process is for any new home construction.

  • Complete the Residential Project Application Packet
  • Prepare a site plan illustrating the complete footprint of the new addition/expansion.
    • The site plan should also include:
      • the distance between the structure and the front, rear, and side property lines
      • the location of the proposed or existing driveway
      • the location of the proposed or existing septic tank (if applicable)

Submit your completed Residential Project Application Packet and Site Plan online using the CSS Self-Service Portal.

If your property is served by a private septic system you will need to contact the  Lee County Environmental Health Department immediately after you submit your packet through the portal. A separate submittal through Lee County Environmental Health is required. Contact the Lee County Environmental Health Department at 919-718-4641 or envhealth@leecountync.gov.

Applications and more information are available at the Lee County Environmental Health Department webpage.

Home Addition Example

Minimum Building Setbacks

A minimum building setback is the minimum distance a structure can be built from a property line. In other words: how far a structure must be set back from a property line.  Minimum building setbacks will vary by zoning district, so be sure to check the Lee County GIS Interactive Map to find your zoning district, or contact the Department of Community Development (zoning@sanfordnc.net or 919-718-4656) for further information.

If your proposed new home, new addition, or new accessory building is within five feet of a minimum setback line (e.g., if the minimum building setback is 15 feet and your new home is between 15 and 20 feet away from the property line) then you must either have a to-scale site plan completed by a licensed design professional (surveyor, civil engineer, landscape architect) or have a licensed surveyor locate the corners of your property and verify that setbacks are met with the Community Development Department in writing (email is preferred).

The following building features may encroach into building setbacks, per UDO §4.7.3.1:

  • bay windows or other structural overhangs, not to exceed three (3) feet
  • chimneys, not to exceed two (2) feet
  • heating and cooling units, not to exceed three (3) feet
  • overhanging roof, eave, gutter, cornice, or other architectural feature and awnings, not to exceed two (2) feet
  • steps, stairs, or fire escapes (non-enclosed), not to exceed six (6) feet.

Easements

Please be aware of any easements located on your property and be sure they're located before starting construction of your home.
Click here for more information on easements.