Zoning Compliance Permit

The Hillsborough Planning Department issues Zoning Compliance Permits (ZCPs) for activities that are regulated under the Zoning Ordinance on property in the town limits and in the extraterritorial jurisdiction.  In some cases, a building permit may also be required.  Building permits and inspections are issued by the Orange County Planning and Inspections Department; their webpage can be accessed using the link to the right.

A Zoning Compliance Permit is issued for:

• Site change: such as relocating or expanding an existing structure, or constructing a new building, accessory building, deck, or fence.
• Sign: installing a new sign or changing the location, sign face, or message of an existing sign.
• Change of Use: moving your business into an existing non-residential retail/office space.
• Home Occupation: operating a business out of your personal residence.
• Temporary and event signage, including sandwich boards and banners.

To apply for a Zoning Compliance Permit please fill out the application form and return it to the Planning Department.  The application MUST have both SIGNATURES to be considered complete.  You may email it in, but you must email a scanned copy that includes both signatures.  Once submitted, the turn-around time for a permit application is typically 1-2 business days.  We will call you when the permit is ready, and you will need to come in to sign for the permit and pay the permit fee at that time.  The fee schedule is posted at the bottom of the Planning Department webpage.

Please call the Planning Department at (919) 732-1270 x73 or x74 with any questions about the permit or application materials.

Check your zoning on the Zoning Information page.

Setbacks and other requirements are in the Unified Development Ordinance

View other Regulations and Guidelines

Return to the Planning Department homepage.