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Health permits & inspections — North Carolina
General guidance and a verification checklist. Rules vary by locality and AHJ.
Important: This page provides general information only. For a definitive answer, verify with your local health department, fire marshal, building department, and sewer authority (as applicable).
Food establishment permits and inspections are typically administered by local/county health departments. Many jurisdictions require plan review for new builds or remodels.
What to verify
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Plan review | Ask if plan review is required for your project scope. |
| Permit type | Confirm which permit category applies (restaurant, commissary, mobile, etc.). |
| Food safety certs | Verify Person-in-Charge or manager certification requirements. |
| Inspection cadence | Confirm routine inspection frequency and scoring system. |
Common pitfalls
- Assuming a previous tenant’s approvals carry over after a change of use
- Skipping plan review before ordering expensive equipment
- Overlooking vent termination, roof penetrations, or grease duct routing constraints
- Ignoring wastewater authority requirements for grease interceptors
Related requirements
- Health permits & inspections
- Fire suppression systems
- Grease traps & interceptors
- Zoning, occupancy & change of use
Common questions
Do all restaurants need this?
Not always. Requirements usually depend on your equipment, menu, building classification, and local enforcement. Verify with the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).
Who enforces this?
Often a combination of your local health department, fire marshal/fire prevention bureau, building department, and wastewater authority.
When should I verify requirements?
Before signing a lease or ordering equipment. Plan review and permitting sequencing can change your buildout cost and timeline.
Last reviewed: 2025