High Point Zoning Regulations & Building Permits
Key Zoning Facts
High Point Zoning Overview
High Point is a city in Guilford County, North Carolina, with a 2020 Census population of 114,059. Known as the "Furniture Capital of the World" and home to the High Point Market, the city manages land use and development through its zoning ordinance, which divides the municipality into residential, business, and industrial zoning districts.
High Point's residential zoning districts include RS-7 (7,000 sq ft minimum lots), RS-9 (9,000 sq ft), and RS-12 (12,000 sq ft) for single-family homes, along with RM-8 for multi-family development. The city also has general business (GB) and light industrial (LI) districts.
Key Residential Zoning Districts
| District | Min Lot Size | Front Setback | Side Setback | Rear Setback | Max Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RS-7 | 7,000 sq ft | 25 ft | 5 ft | 20 ft | 35 ft |
| RS-9 | 9,000 sq ft | 25 ft | 8 ft | 20 ft | 35 ft |
| RS-12 | 12,000 sq ft | 30 ft | 10 ft | 25 ft | 35 ft |
ADU Regulations
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) allowance in High Point has not been confirmed. Property owners interested in building an ADU should contact the High Point Planning department for the most current regulations.
Development Process
Development in High Point generally requires obtaining the appropriate permits from the city's planning and building departments. The process typically involves:
- Zoning Verification -- Confirm that your proposed use is permitted in the applicable zoning district
- Site Plan Review -- For commercial and multi-family projects, submit a site plan for review
- Building Permit -- Apply for a building permit with construction documents
- Inspections -- Schedule required inspections during construction
- Certificate of Occupancy -- Obtain final approval before occupying the structure
Key Considerations
Before starting any development project in High Point, property owners should:
- Verify the zoning classification of their property
- Review setback, height, and lot coverage requirements
- Check for any overlay districts or special regulations
- Determine if the property is in a flood zone using FEMA's flood map service
- Confirm whether HOA covenants or deed restrictions apply
- Contact the planning department for pre-application guidance
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in High Point and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the City of High Point planning department or municipal code before making development decisions.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in High Point
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
State — North Carolina
- Building Code: NC State Building Code (IBC/IRC based)
County — Guilford County
- Role: County-level property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs and deed restrictions for additional requirements.
Primary Zoning Districts
- Min Lot
- 7,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- 9,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- 12,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 30 ft
- Side Setback
- 10 ft
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
- Min Lot
- Varies
- Max Height
- Varies
- Front Setback
- Varies
- Side Setback
- Varies
- Rear Setback
- Varies
- Min Lot
- Varies
- Max Height
- Varies
- Front Setback
- Varies
- Side Setback
- Varies
- Rear Setback
- Varies
- Min Lot
- Varies
- Max Height
- Varies
- Front Setback
- Varies
- Side Setback
- Varies
- Rear Setback
- Varies
ADU Rules in High Point
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for High Point are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check High Point permit fees →