Frequently Asked Questions

Can I conduct a certain activity at a given location?
Zoning determines how a property can be used and developed. To find the zoning classification for a specific property, please visit Charlotte Explorer and turn on the Zoning layer under Planning. Search the address under "Quick Search" to bring up the property in question and identify the zoning.

For general assistance with zoning questions, contact the CLT Development Center at 704-336-6692 or charlottezoning@charlottenc.gov.

Can the zoning of a certain parcel of property be changed?
Property owners can request a change to the zoning of their property through a formal rezoning process. The City of Charlotte’s Planning, Design & Development Department manages the rezoning process for properties within the City of Charlotte and unincorporated Mecklenburg County. 

For more information about rezoning and how to start the process, visit rezoning.org.

Can you tell me what's going on at a property near where I live? Can you tell me if a property owner got permits for construction that is already underway?
The Development Near Me Tool allows you to find information about development projects near your home or another property. Enter an address to view information about ongoing, pending, approved and completed projects.

Can I operate a business out of my home?
You can operate a business from your home, but you must follow the zoning requirements that apply to your property and obtain any required approvals or permits. For more information, visit the permitting webpage.

How do I file for a variance or an appeal from decision?
The UDO Board of Adjustment reviews requests for variances from zoning requirements and appeals of zoning decisions. For information about how to file a variance or appeal, visit the UDO Board of Adjustment webpage.

How do I rezone my property?
To rezone your property, you must go through the City’s formal rezoning process. Visit rezoning.org for information about the process, required steps, application materials and other resources.

How do I find out the zoning of my property? Does the zoning classification at a particular address allow my type of business?
To find the zoning for a property and explore potential development options:

1. Go to Charlotte Explorer. Select Quick Search from the menu.
2. Search for the property. You can search by address or parcel number. For an address search, enter the street number and street name only. Select the correct address when it appears in the search results.
3. Select the property on the map. A window with information about the property will appear. If the window shows information for something other than the property parcel, use the left and right arrows at the top of the window to find the Parcels information.
4. Find the zoning district. Select More Information, then select Districts. The property's zoning district will be listed under Planning and Customer Service Areas.
5. Learn more about the zoning district. Once you have the zoning district, visit CharlotteUDO.org to find the requirements that apply to that zoning district, including permitted uses and development standards. 

What type of zoning will I need to establish a named business activity?
The zoning you need depends on the type of business or activity you want to operate. The Charlotte UDO identifies which uses are allowed in each zoning district and any conditions that may apply.

Visit CharlotteUDO.org to find the zoning requirements for your proposed business or activity.

Where can I locate an accessory structure, shed, pool or garage on my property?
Accessory structures such as sheds, pools and garages generally can be located in the side or rear yard, but they must meet required setbacks from property lines. They generally cannot be located in the established front setback. Requirements can vary by property and structure type.

For specific requirements, review Article 17 of the UDO.

What is a landscape yard (buffer)?
A landscape yard is an area with plants and other features that helps separate different uses or developments and can help reduce impacts such as noise, lighting or other nuisances. Landscape yards may be required between certain types of properties or zoning districts.

For specific requirements, review Article 20 of the UDO.

Who maintains a landscape yard (buffer)?
The owner or responsible party is generally responsible for maintaining required landscape yards. Landscaping and other landscape elements must be kept in good condition and replaced when they die or are seriously damaged. Maintenance requirements can vary depending on the type of landscape yard and property.

For specific requirements, review Article 20 of the UDO.

What are my building setbacks and yard requirements?
A setback is the required distance between a building or structure and a property line, street or other feature. Setback requirements vary based on the property’s zoning district and other UDO requirements.

To find the setbacks that apply to your property, visit CharlotteUDO.org and review the requirements for your zoning district.

Do dumpsters require screening?
Outdoor dumpsters and other waste containers must meet screening requirements. The UDO requires certain waste containers and solid waste service areas to be screened from adjacent properties and from view of public streets.

For specific requirements, review Article 20 of the UDO.

Can I subdivide my property?
In many cases, you can subdivide your property if it meets the applicable zoning and subdivision requirements. Requirements vary depending on the property and type of subdivision.

For more information, visit the City’s Subdivision Services webpage and review Article 30 of the UDO.

Who enforces watersheds or impervious areas?
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Stormwater Services is responsible for the enforcement of watersheds and impervious areas.

For more information, visit the Stormwater Regulations webpage.

What happens when a violation continues after the specified time to correct the violation?
If a zoning violation is not corrected within the required time, the City may issue a civil citation. Citation amounts increase if the violation continues, starting at $50 and increasing up to $500.

For more information about code enforcement, visit the City’s Housing & Neighborhood Services Code Enforcement webpage.

What can the City do about illegal uses on a property, such as illegal drug activity?
If you believe a property is being used illegally, you can report a suspected zoning violation by calling 3-1-1 or 704-336-7600, using the CLT+ mobile app, or submitting a request online through the City of Charlotte Code Enforcement portal.

When reporting a violation, provide the property address and as much information as possible about the suspected violation. The City will review the complaint and take appropriate action if a violation is found.

When is a permit required?
A permit is required for certain construction activity (building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing). For construction activity, please visit Mecklenburg County LUESA's website.

Operating a business from your home may also require a permit. For more information, please visit cltgov.me/ZUP.

Do I need a permit for a fence?
A fence constructed along a city street requires a no-cost fence and wall certificate from the Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT) in lieu of a permit.

For more information, visit the Fence and Wall Certificates webpage and review Article 17 of the UDO for fence height.

Do I need a permit for a shed or "temporary" structure?
A permit may be required for a shed, accessory structure or temporary structure, depending on the type and size of the structure.

For accessory structures 12 feet or less in any dimension, a City Zoning Use Permit is required. Larger accessory structures may require additional permits and review.

Apply online through Accela Citizen Access. For zoning questions, email charlottezoning@charlottenc.gov.

Can I operate a business from my residence?
You can operate a business from your residence if the business is allowed under the City’s zoning requirements. A Zoning Use Permit may be required for an approved home-based business. You can apply for a Zoning Use Permit online through Accela Citizen Access. 

How many people may live in a house?
In a residential district, up to six unrelated individuals may live in a house as a family. There is no zoning restriction for the number of family members related by blood, marriage or adoption living in a home.

Who enforces my restrictive covenants or private deed restrictions?
The homeowner's association, management company or individual homeowner(s) may enforce these restrictions.

What is an "as-built" survey and how do I get one?
An as-built survey is a survey prepared by a registered land surveyor that shows what has actually been built on a property. It may include structures, driveways, basements, walkways, gravel areas, impervious surfaces and other site features.

To get an as-built survey, contact a registered land surveyor.

How do I report a zoning violation, junk car or trash on a property?
You can report a suspected zoning violation by calling 3-1-1 or 704-336-7600, using the CLT+ mobile app, or submitting a request online through the City of Charlotte Code Enforcement portal. When reporting a violation, provide the property address and as much information as possible about the suspected violation. 

What is the difference between an unlicensed vehicle and a junked vehicle?
An unlicensed vehicle is a vehicle that does not have a current license plate. The City’s zoning regulations allow up to two unlicensed vehicles on a property if they are not fully enclosed in a permanent structure. Unlicensed vehicles cannot be located in a required setback or in the street right-of-way.

A junked motor vehicle is an unlicensed vehicle that meets at least one of these conditions:

• It is partially dismantled or wrecked.
• It cannot be driven under its own power.
• It is more than five years old and appears to be worth less than $100.

One junked motor vehicle may be kept in a rear yard if it is covered with an acceptable canvas covering.

How is zoning enforced?
Once HNS receives a complaint, the zoning inspector will investigate the alleged violation (typically within three business days). If a violation is detected, a notice of violation is sent by certified mail to the property owner and/or occupant. The violation letter includes a specified period of time for the violation to be corrected.

What constitutes a sign violation?
Sign regulations can vary depending on the type, location and size of the sign. If you believe a sign may violate City regulations, you can report it to Housing & Neighborhood Services by calling 3-1-1 or 704-336-7600, using the CLT+ mobile app, or submitting a report through the City of Charlotte Code Enforcement portal.