November 2024 Update: New Code Changes Coming in 2025!

General Information

Code Changes Coming in 2025

Per a vote by the North Carolina Building Code Council at their September 10, 2024 meeting, the 2023 NFPA 70 also known as the 2023 NC Electrical Code, will be mandatorily effective January 1, 2025. The 2017 NFPA 70 (2017 NC Electrical Code) is effective for buildings and structures included within the scope of the 2018 NC Residential Code through December 31, 2024.

The 2020 NFPA 70 (2020 NC Electrical Code) is effective for buildings and structures not included within the scope of the 2018 NC Residential Code through December 31, 2024.

For the 2023 State Electrical Code there will be no grace period. New permits that are applied for on or after January 1, 2025, will be subject to the new code.

The 2023 State Electrical Code includes 36 new amendments to the 2023 National Electrical Code Click to download the Amendments from NCOSFM.

Upcoming changes to the North Carolina Building and Trade codes are expected. For further information, please review the updates. Be aware that this may vary based on the availability of printed codes.

Planning Department - A New Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) is Coming!

Following the adoption of the City and County's new Comprehensive Plan in October 2023, the Planning Department has shifted its focus to implementing the goals and actions in the plan. One specific way they implement the Actions in the Comprehensive Plan is by recommending changes to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The UDO is a legally binding set of rules that regulates how physical development of land is allowed to occur in both the City and County.

The EngageDurham website will serve as the home for all things related to the New UDO effort, with links in the sidebar providing more information about how to get involved, upcoming meetings and events, frequently asked questions, and periodic updates on the team's progress, along with New UDO-related documents and presentations as they are produced. Questions on the New UDO effort can be directed to [email protected].

Applications and Forms

We continue to make important updates to our applications and forms. We encourage you to review and download the latest version to ensure successful submittals.

Scheduling An Inspection

As a reminder, all inspections must be scheduled online via the Land Development Office Portal. No inspection appointments will be accepted by email or phone.

To schedule an inspection:

• Go to the LDO section of our website and log in.
• Click on Schedule Inspection, under Inspections (left side of screen).
• Enter the permit number and follow the prompts to schedule.
• All inspections are scheduled for the next business day.

If you have limited internet access, our customer service lobby is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. We have computers available for you to schedule your inspections. Our lobby is located on the Ground Floor of City Hall at 101 City Hall Plaza.

City Holidays and Closures

The City of Durham will observe the following holidays:

• Veteran's Day, Monday, November 11
• Thanksgiving, Thursday and Friday, November 28 and 29
• Christmas, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, December 23, 24, and 25
• New Year's Day, Wednesday, January 1

Inspections Department Division Updates

Building Division Updates

Our department is pleased to welcome Building Inspector Michael Altman. Michael will inspect both residential and commercial buildings to ensure compliance with state and local building codes, ordinances, and general statutes. He will also review sites for safety regulations and interact with contractors and homeowners.

This is a reminder that resubmitted plan reviews must be attached as PDFs. Due to strict technology security, we cannot accept or open external links included in requests. Submitting an external link will result in a failed re-review.

Mechanical Division Updates

The Mechanical Division, in partnership with the North Carolina Mechanical Inspectors Association (NCMIA), is hosting a free A2L training class on Thursday, December 12. This four-hour class taught by a UL instructor, is open to contractors, inspectors, and design professionals. For registration and other important details, please click here.

Plumbing Division Updates

For fire sprinkler systems, the plumbing division will now review all 13D system plans for residential dwellings only.

Job Openings

Start your public service career with us where you will find opportunity for growth and advancement while making a real difference in the community you serve.

Explore our website for current full-time job opportunities in our department, including positions for a building plans examiner and an electrical inspector.

We offer competitive pay for performance and one of the best benefit packages you'll find anywhere.

Questions: Call 919-560-4144 or Email:[email protected]

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