Surety Release and Return

Surety release/returns may be requested by completing a Final Inspection/Bond Release Request Form. Please note that the applicable bond fee must be submitted for sureties greater than 4 (four) years from the original effective date. The release/return will not be processed until the completed Final Inspection/Bond Release Request Form is submitted and payment is received.

The following requirements apply:

  • Subdivision sureties (city limits or annexed areas) must be kept current and in effect until such time a final inspection is performed, and outstanding items are addressed (including the submission of required as-builts and copies of recorded plats). Upon approval, the site inspector will issue a written directive to Bond Administration to release the surety.
  • Subdivision sureties (extraterritorial jurisdiction) must be kept current and in effect until such time a final inspection is performed, and outstanding items are addressed (including the submission of required as-builts and copies of recorded plats). Upon approval, the site inspector will issue a written directive to Bond Administration to release the surety. Maintenance responsibility of these streets falls under the jurisdiction of the State of North Carolina, provided that the developer meets all of the State requirements. The streets will remain under private maintenance until the state formally accepts the streets.
  • Sidewalk sureties must be kept current and in effect until such time a final inspection is performed, outstanding items are addressed, and sidewalk improvements guaranteed by the surety are accepted by the appropriate City of Charlotte site inspector. Upon approval, the site inspector will issue a written directive to Bond Administration to release the surety.

Upon release, a transmittal letter is processed to the developer or builder. The original surety document, along with a courtesy copy of the transmittal letter, is provided to the bank or surety company (surety agents receive courtesy copies of transmittal letters and copies of surety bonds).

Checks to return cash sureties are issued by Finance, and are sent under separate cover from the transmittal letter, usually within 30 business days.