Fayetteville, NC Environmental Rules: Coastal Development (2026)

Sec. 12-63 requires a floodplain development permit before any development activity begins within a special flood hazard area identified under Sec. 12-62. Sec. 12-92 spells out what that takes: a scaled plot plan showing the SFHA and floodway boundaries, base flood elevation, proposed elevation of the reference level and utilities, and, where applicable, a floodproofing certificate (FEMA Form 81-65) with an operational plan; a foundation plan showing the elevation method and any flood-opening design; copies of all other required federal, state, and local permits (wetlands, endangered species, erosion control, riparian buffers, mining); and documentation for any recreational vehicle or temporary structure placement.

Certification does not end at permit issuance: an elevation certificate (FEMA Form 81-31) is due before construction starts, and a final as-built elevation certificate is due before a certificate of compliance or occupancy issues, with the floodplain administrator, the inspection director or a designee under Sec. 12-91, empowered to require corrections or withhold the permit or occupancy certificate over deficiencies. The administrator can also issue stop-work orders and revoke a permit for a substantial departure from approved plans, false statements, or noncompliance with state or local law, per Sec.

12-93. Certain small structures are exempt from certification, including recreational vehicles on site under 180 days, temporary structures with an approved removal plan, and accessory structures under 150 square feet meeting specific siting criteria. Sec. 12-65 makes the chapter's restrictions control over any conflicting, less-stringent easement, covenant, or deed restriction, and Sec. 12-67 disclaims city liability for flood damage even where a permit has been properly issued.