FAQs • Morehead City NC • CivicEngage

Do I need approval to run a business out of my home?: Morehead City has two classifications of home occupations. Type A home occupations are those where residents use their home as a place of work; however, no employees or customers come to the site. Type B home occupations are those where residents use their home as a place of work and either one employee or customers come to the site. A special use permit is required prior to establishing a Type B home occupation.

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Zoning

1. What is a Special Use?: Special uses add flexibility to the Unified Development Ordinance by permitting potentially undesirable uses of property in specified districts when certain criteria (JPG) are met. An "S" in the Table of Permissible Uses indicates a Special Use in the specified district. When considering a request for a Special Use Permit, the Board of Adjustment may impose reasonable and appropriate conditions upon these permits. Applicants are advised to discuss any application for a Special Use Permit with staff prior to submittal.

2. What is a variance?: The variance process is a method of enabling property owners to make use of their property in a way that conflicts with the literal interpretation of the ordinance. More specifically, a variance grants relief from the Unified Development Ordinance. Use variances are not permitted under North Carolina state law. The Board of Adjustment makes its decision to approve or deny a variance request based upon specific criteria (PNG). Applicants are advised to discuss any variance application with staff prior to submittal.

3. How can I tell if a use is allowed on my property?: Morehead City is divided into zoning districts. These districts have both permitted uses that are allowed by right and other uses that are allowed as special uses. The Table of Permissible Uses is contained in the Unified Development Ordinance.

4. Do I need approval to run a business out of my home?: Morehead City has two classifications of home occupations. Type A home occupations are those where residents use their home as a place of work; however, no employees or customers come to the site. Type B home occupations are those where residents use their home as a place of work and either one employee or customers come to the site. A special use permit is required prior to establishing a Type B home occupation.

5. How do I submit a request for a Variance or Special Use Permit?: Submit a Board of Adjustment Application (PDF) with the applicable filing fee. You may also be required to submit a site plan and other additional information. Contact the Planning and Inspections Department for additional information.

6. Can I speak with Board of Adjustment members about my case prior to the hearing?: No. Hearings are conducted in a quasi-judicial manner, and members may not speak about cases prior to the hearing. You may, however, receive assistance from staff or seek professional legal advice, if you wish.