Starting or Move a Business

Currituck County is an ideal location for businesses of all sizes—from international corporations to local startups. Our goal is to make your business launch or relocation as smooth as possible. If you’re new to the county’s process, our Planners are here to guide you through the necessary development plans, permits, and approvals.

Business / Development Service

• Free service for all residential and nonresidential development customers.
• You’ll be assigned a dedicated Planner who acts as your primary point of contact for your entire project.
• Planners are experts in planning, zoning, permitting, building codes, and inspections.
• They work closely with all county staff involved in the development process.

Steps to Start or Move Your Business

1. Before Buying Property or Signing a Lease
   • Request a Zoning Determination Letter (PDF) to ensure the lot or building meets county requirements and is zoned for your intended use.
     • Confirms the zoning district(s) and any conditions on the parcel.
     • Fee: $25.00 | Processing time: up to 2 weeks
2. Locating in a New or Renovated Building
   • Change of Occupancy Use/Change of Owner-Lessee Permit (PDF) is required for new or renovated spaces.
   • Site Plan approval is needed before construction or exterior changes (landscaping, parking, awnings, lighting, etc.).
   • After approval, submit a Non-Residential Building Permit Application (PDF) via Currituck County Citizen Self Service with:
     • Code Summary for Commercial Projects (PDF)
     • Scaled floor plan showing rooms, bathrooms, exits, reception areas
     • Overall building plan identifying tenant spaces and business type
     • Food services/daycare must include menu for Albemarle Regional Health Services review
   • Apply for and pay associated fees directly to Albemarle Regional Health Services.
   • Sign Permit (PDF) required before installing a permanent sign. Regulations in the Unified Development Ordinance, Chapter “5, Section 5.12 (PDF).
3. Locating a New Tenant in an Existing Building with No Changes to the Property or Space
   • Change of Occupancy (PDF): moving into a space with a different occupancy type.
   • Change of Owner-Lessee (PDF): moving into a space with the same occupancy type.
   • Required building/fire inspections must be completed before the Certificate of Occupancy is issued.
   • Apply for a Non-Residential Building Permit (PDF) with the same documents as above.
   See the Permits & Inspections Fee Schedule for applicable fees.
4. Locating a Business in Your Home
   • Home Occupations are permitted in most zoning districts.
   • Regulations in the Unified Development Ordinance, Chapter 4, Subsection 4.3.3.L.
5. Converting Residential Property to Commercial
   • Verify the property is zoned properly with the Planning & Inspections Department.
   • Commercial use may require stricter state building code compliance, including:
     • Handicapped access & parking
     • Floor weight limits
     • Minimum hallway widths
     • Firewalls
   • Reference the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) Start A Business Planning Checklist for state licenses, permits, and regulatory requirements.
6. Obtaining an ABC License (Alcohol Sales)
   • Required for businesses serving alcoholic beverages via the NC Alcohol Beverage Control Commission.
     Steps:
     1. Determine permit type at abc.nc.gov and print the application packet.
     2. Submit a completed Currituck County Alcohol License (ABC) form (PDF) with $100.00 to Permits Online.
     3. Complete Section A of the Inspection/Zoning Compliance Form (PDF) and keep on-site.
     4. Schedule Zoning Inspection: 252-232-3378
     5. Schedule Building & Fire Inspection: 252-232-3378
     6. Obtain local law enforcement approval:
        Currituck County Sheriff
        125 College Way
        Barco, North Carolina
        252-453-8204
     7. Obtain Local Government Opinion (LGO): County Manager’s Office, 252-232-2075
     8. Submit all required forms to:
        • NC ABC Commission
          4307 Mail Service Center
          Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-4307
        • Or USPS Express, FedEx, UPS:
          400 East Tryon Road
          Raleigh, North Carolina 27610
7. Utilities for Your New Business
   • Water & Sewer Service – Currituck County Water and Sewer | 252-232-2769
   • Other Utilities
     • Enbridge Gas – North Carolina Natural Gas for Business
     • Dominion Energy – North Carolina Electric for Business – To start new service or to add an additional service call 866-366-4357

Contacts

Jennie Turner
Planning and Inspections Director
Phone: 252-232-6031
Email: [email protected]