Plot Plans for Residential Building Permits

Process Description:
A plot plan is a general property plan used to verify that the proposed work meets the City Zoning codes for any of the following: new homes, additions, decks, pools, garages, sheds, moving buildings or any other exterior construction on a residential lot. See the detailed description of uses that require an approved plot plan for more detail.

See the City of Raleigh Development Services Glossary for any unfamiliar terms.

Are there any prerequisites to this process?
Refer to the City Code Part 10 Chapter 2 Section 2132.1 to confirm that the work qualifies as a plot plan. Make sure the plot plan includes all the information for other trades, if applicable (Electrical, Building, Mechanical, etc.).

How do I start the process?
Complete a City of Raleigh Permit Application.

Where do I get a plot plan?

• A plot plan can be hand drawn provided it meets all the requirements listed below
• Property surveys may be used as a plot plan and may be found with your mortgage closing documents

A plot plan must include the following:

• Plot Plan Information Block
• North Arrow (must be at the top)
• Location of the lot including street names, lot size, and dimensions
• Dimensions of proposed and existing buildings or structures
• If not using a survey, submit drawings with a scale ranging from 10 - 40
• Date of drawing, signature of the person preparing the document, and recorded lot number and address. Also include the Book of Maps and page number (i.e. BM2005 and page number)
• Zoning boundaries
• Required yards and recorded easements (Open spaces, greenways, buffers, flood, utilities, etc.)
• Impervious Surface Table
• Plantings required by the Code
• All this information can be found in the Zoning City Code in Part 10 Chapter 2 Section 2032.1 (b)

(Note: A printed IMAPS drawing will not be accepted as a plot plan.)

What do I need to submit to the City?

SUBMITTAL PACKAGE
Required for Submittal	City of Raleigh Permit Application Two (2) sets of Plot Plans for One & Two Family Dwelling projects
Recommended for a Successful Review	Refer to the Residential Plan Submittal Guide
Required for Some Projects	One (1) copy of Plot Plan required for Historic Districts and Landmarks COA application, if applicable

Where can I find detailed information regarding submittals?

• The City Code Chapter 10 Section 2032 will help you determine what type of plan you have and if you need to submit a plot plan versus a Site Plan
• Plot Plan Requirements
  
• Refer to the Residential Submittal Guide for a detailed explanation of each trade and what is required for plans review
• Driveway Cut Permitting Requirements

Where do I submit my application?

Plan submittal packages may also be dropped off at the address below and they will be couriered daily to the Litchford Satellite office location:

Note: Dropping off submittal packages at this location will result in a one day delay in processing to allow for courier time.

What are the keys to success?

• Review your submittal to ensure that all information is complete, accurate, legible and complies with submittal requirements
• Make certain the plot plan information block is included and accurately completed

What fees are involved and when do I pay them?

• There is no separate fee for plot plans. It is part of the building review process
• Re-review fees may be assessed after the second review if prior plan review comments are not corrected
• See Development Fee Schedule

How long will this process take?
Each review cycle takes approximately five (5) business days.