Before You Build in High Point, NC: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

High Point's Development Ordinance limits fence heights in residential zones. Front yard fences are typically limited to 4 feet, while side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet, with some exceptions for corner lots.

High Point does not typically require permits for standard residential fences under 6 feet. Fences exceeding height limits or in special districts may need a zoning permit or variance.

North Carolina law does not require neighbor consent to build a fence on your property. High Point property owners should ensure fences are placed on their own property. There is no mandatory fence cost-sharing law.

High Point requires all swimming pools to have a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. The city follows the NC Building Code and International Residential Code requirements.

Swimming pools in High Point require a building permit and must meet NC Building Code safety standards. Inspections are required during and after construction for electrical, plumbing, and barrier compliance.

Above-ground pools in High Point must meet the same barrier and safety requirements as in-ground pools. Pools with walls at least 48 inches high may satisfy the barrier requirement if the ladder can be removed or locked.

Accessory dwelling units in High Point are regulated by the Development Ordinance. ADUs may be permitted in certain residential districts with restrictions on size, height, setbacks, and owner occupancy.

Converting a garage to living space in High Point requires a building permit and compliance with the NC Building Code for habitable space. Required parking must be maintained on the property.

High Point regulates carports as accessory structures under Section 4.4 of the Development Ordinance. A residential accessory structure must be set back at least 5 feet from side and rear lot lines (10 feet along an alley or rear lot abutting a street on through/reverse-frontage lots), must sit behind the front building line of the principal dwelling on lots under 2 acres, and the combined area of all accessory buildings cannot exceed 50 percent of the principal dwelling's gross floor area or 600 square feet, whichever is greater.

Sheds in High Point must comply with the Development Ordinance setback and size requirements. Small sheds under 120 square feet may not require a building permit but must meet placement requirements.

Open burning in High Point is regulated by city ordinance and NC air quality rules. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited within the city limits. Burning permits are required for any authorized open burning.

Fire pits in High Point must comply with fire safety regulations. Recreational fires in approved containers are allowed with proper setbacks and supervision, but open ground fires are prohibited.

Property owners in High Point are responsible for trimming trees on their property. Trees must maintain clearance over sidewalks and streets and not obstruct traffic signs or signals.

High Point implements water conservation measures during drought conditions. The city may impose mandatory watering restrictions during water shortages, limiting outdoor irrigation to specific days and times.

High Point may require approval before removing certain trees, particularly in developments subject to landscaping requirements. The Development Ordinance includes tree preservation provisions for new construction.