Frequently Asked Questions

1. Converting a residence to a business
2. Constructing a deck, screened porch, or sunroom
3. Installing an irrigation system
4. Installing a swimming pool
5. Adding a ceiling fan
6. Finishing an attic or basement
7. Replacing a furnace or air conditioner
8. Installing gas logs, attic fans, skylights

1. Replacement of water heaters in the same location with the same fuel source by a licensed plumber on a Single Family Dwelling
2. Replacement of non-structural, cosmetic building elements, such as: floor and wall coverings; moldings and trim; cabinets and casework; roof coverings with same materials, etc.
3. Accessory buildings that are no more than 12 feet in any dimension
4. Replacement of electrical fixtures and components when work is not done within the wall or ceiling cavity or behind the finished wall or ceiling surface.
5. Replacement of plumbing fixtures when the work does not go beyond the trap seal
6. Installation of low voltage exterior landscape lighting

Building permits reviewed by the Inspections Division range from large to small. The following items may be required depending upon the kind of permit being sought: 

• Site plan(s) showing detailing the proposed changes to the property;
• Contractor names, addresses, and state license numbers for the particular trade or general contractor;
• Information pertaining to well & septic permits, if needed, from Orange County Environmental Health;
• Necessary documentation for related projects such as load calculations for Mechanical renovations or change-outs.
• Sealed Architectural and/or Engineering Plans as needed;
• For Commercial Permits, as needed: Appendix B from Building Code, Facilities Calculations, Water System Calculations.
• Relevant permit fees and forms as required by Inspections or Zoning; these can be found at the link below:

Related Documents and Forms

Please call Inspections if you have any questions about permits at 919-918-7336.

Please see the Town of Carrboro Fee Schedule. Any questions, please contact 919-918-7336.

Building codes can be obtained through the NC Department of Insurance at 919-661-5880.

Permit Applications are managed through PIPER, the Town’s online permitting portal which can be accessed here:

PIPER Online Portal

PIPER application instructions can be found here:

PIPER Application Instructions

What Do You Need For A Permit?

Building permits reviewed by the Inspections Division range from large to small. The following items may be required depending upon the kind of permit being sought: 

• Site plan(s) showing detailing the proposed changes to the property;
• Contractor names, addresses, and state license numbers for the particular trade or general contractor;
• Information pertaining to well & septic permits, if needed, from Orange County Environmental Health;
• Necessary documentation for related projects such as load calculations for Mechanical renovations or change-outs.
• Sealed Architectural and/or Engineering Plans as needed;
• For Commercial Permits, as needed: Appendix B from Building Code, Facilities Calculations, Water System Calculations.
• Relevant permit fees and forms as required by Inspections or Zoning; these can be found at the link below:

Related Documents and Forms

The Permit Review process takes from 4 to 6 weeks for most projects at this time. During this time your project is reviewed for compliance with all applicable regulations and codes.  It is possible to receive your permit in less time depending upon the staff workload when your request is received and how complicated the project is.  

Please call Inspections if you have any questions about permits at 919-918-7336.  

Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Absolutely! While the Town is limited on what we can directly do to assist your struggling businesses, one thing we can do is connect you to resources and advisors to help you get back on-track - whether it's marketing, finances, human resources, supply chains or any other part of your business. The best approach is to get in contact with our staff to help assess your needs and discuss what resources we can bring to you to help you most. Know that the sooner you seek assistance, the better the chance to help your business survive. Discussions are confidential.

We're happy to hear this and are available to assist you however we can in your endeavor. You can learn about the basics of starting a new business in 10-steps at our New Business Resource Center. We also would encourage you to seek the free business assistance from the Small Business Center at Durham Tech, Small Business and Technical Development Center at UNC, or SCORE Chapel Hill Durham. These resources can provide one-on-one consulting to help you specifically tailor your business plan to your idea. Still have questions? Contact our Department at 919-918-7319.

Generally, no, you do not need a business license from the Town to open a new business. You will need to make sure to have your business registered with the State of North Carolina. If you are selling beer or wine, you will need to get a license from the Town.

Because of the quickly changing status of commercial properties, the Town does not provide a database of available properties for public viewing. As you look for space, feel free to reach out to our staff at 919-918-7319 or by email at EconDev@CarrboroNC.gov and let us know what building/site requirements you are looking for (square footage, utility needs, location or neighborhood preferences, preferred lease terms, etc) and we'll be happy to share available properties with you!

Yes! Due to COVID-19 are currently inspecting and installing car seats for children on an appointment basis. Fill out the Child Passenger Safety Inspection Request form to schedule an appointment, or visit our Child Car Seat Installation page for more information.

Reflective address signs are very important for emergency services. If we can't find you, we can't help you. Locating addresses can be especially tricky at night. Order a reflective address sign today. Signs are only $15 or $20 if mounted to a metal post. Use this form to order your reflective address sign. The signs are made at the fire-rescue department and you will be contacted once it is ready for pick-up.

As a part of our Community Risk Reduction program the Fire-Rescue Department installs smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for residents of Carrboro and the South Orange Fire District. Smoke alarms provide early notifications increasing the likelihood that you and your family will be able to escape if there is a fire in your home. Submit this form to schedule installation or inspection of a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm.

The Carrboro Fire-Rescue Department issues construction and operational permits in accordance with applicable state laws and the currently adopted edition of the North Carolina Fire Code. For more information regarding permits, reference Section 105 of the North Carolina Fire Code and in Chapter 12, Article II, Section 12-10 of the Town Code. You can apply for a fire prevention permit by submitting this form.

Reminder: Any plans for review (electrical, remodeling, fire alarm, sprinkler system) should be submitted to Town of Carrboro Planning, Zoning, and Inspections through PIPER prior to contacting the Fire-Rescue Department.

Public Education Event

We provide public education events, including fire prevention presentations. Use this form to request a public education event for your group or organization.

Station Tours

We regularly give station tours and safety talks to all types of groups, both formal and informal. Some of the groups we have had come through in the past include school classes, girl scouts, boy scouts, church groups, day care groups, after school programs, summer camp groups, home school students, and many individuals. Use this form to request a fire station tour.

Birthday and Block Parties

If you are planning a community block party or birthday party our department will stop by during the event with a fire truck for all to see up close - both adults and children. We can show and explain the use and importance of the many pieces of equipment, display our gear, discuss fire safety topics, and distribute fire safety information. Use this form to request the department come out to your birthday or block party.

Other Events

View our Community Services page to see what other services are offered by the fire-rescue department. Forms are available to request all of the services offered by the department.

An assessment is technical advice given to a homeowner regarding possible solutions to flooding, drainage, erosion, or other stormwater or stream related concerns. It consists of an onsite consultation with the assessment provider and a detailed report/assessment customized to the property and owner’s interests.

Single family residential property owners within the Town’s municipal limits were eligible.

Examples of Stormwater-Related Concerns

• Flooding resulting in property damage or health/safety concerns
• Other drainage issues  (e.g., extended yard saturation)
• Eroding slopes or stream channels
• Stream buffers
• Water quality

Within the Scope of the Assessment

• Green stormwater infrastructure such as rain gardens and bioswales.
• Impervious surface reduction or disconnection (dispersing rather than concentrating flow)
• Swale or ditch repairs
• Rainwater harvesting (cisterns and rain barrels)
• Vegetation additions or adaptations
• Building or mechanical system elevation adaptations
• A conceptual plan and assessment

Outside the Scope of the Assessment

• Recommending specific contractors
• More detailed design/engineering plans
• Project cost estimations
• Other project procurement or management assistance

Michael Dupree, an independent contractor, provided the assessments. He has extensive experience in stormwater and community outreach in Durham County and across North Carolina. He has been providing landscape, irrigation, stormwater and stream related consultation, and design services for Triangle residents since 1989.

A new residential program design was approved by the Town Council on January 9th, 2024. A public hearing has been set for February 27th, 2024 to adjust the Stormwater rate structure to fund the program.  If the rate structure amendment is approved, more assessments and cost sharing for eligible practices will be offered.  Applications could begin to be received again in mid 2024. 

Advisory Board and Commission applications are accepted on a rolling basis. You can view the various advisory baords & commissions here. To submit an application online, please visit this link. If you prefer or need a printed application, please contact the Clerk's Office at 919-918-7309 or email townclerk@carrboronc.gov and we will gladly provide you with one that can be picked up at Town Hall, or mailed. Once submitted, the Town Clerk's Office will coordinate with staff on the next step in the application process. 

The Town Council generally meet on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Tuesday of every month except for July, August, and January. The Council also breaks after the first Tuesday in December until after New Years. All scheduled Town Council meetings will be posted via this link.

You can sign up to speak at a Town Council meeting by either arriving at the meeting a few minutes early and adding your name to the list of speakers or by e-mailing the Clerk's office at townclerk@carrboronc.gov. Please include you name and the nature of the topic you wish to speak about. Please arrive before the meeting begins and listen for your name to be called. Public comment periods are typically held at regular business meetings of the Town Council, but not at Council work sessions. Please check the agenda to ensure public comment is part of the meeting you plan to attend. 

Public comment is usually limited to 3 minutes per speaker.  

The public comment period is for matters NOT on the printed meeting agenda. If you have a public comment for a matter that is on the printed agenda, these comments will be allowed when that agenda item happens, and the Mayor will then call you up to speak.

What if I want to show a PowerPoint during public comment? 

Important! Please Read: If you have a visual to go along with your public comment (e.g. PowerPoint presentation, PDF, photos), you must contact the Town Clerk's office by Noon on the day of the Council meeting you wish to speak at and submit these items. All visual materials must be coordinated with the Town Clerk's office in order to be prepared to be shown during the Town Council meeting. Bringing a flash drive with visual materials loaded on it to the meeting is NOT allowed and will not be able to be viewed on the Council room computer, due to IT security reasons. 

Town Council meetings begin at 7:00 PM. In the event of a special called meeting, a worksession, or retreat, the start times may vary. Always check this link for all upcoming Town Council meetings. 

Yes! Town Council meetings are livestreamed via two platforms. Visit the following to view a Council meeting live stream or to re-watch a meeting:  https://carrboro.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or https://www.youtube.com/@CarrboroNC/streams. Contact townclerk@carrboronc.gov for any questions regarding meeting recordings. 

Procedure for Providing a Subsidy
for Sewer Connections for Existing Dwelling Units in Carrboro
(Established 9/2/1997. Amend. 3/9/1999, 1/25/2005. Amend 5/7/19.)

Purpose:
The Town of Carrboro created reserve of $120,000 over a six year period that was begun in 1995-96 to subsidize providing sewer to those existing dwelling units presently not served by OWASA. OWASA, in 1997, estimated that there were 160 units not served by sewer within the corporate limits of the Town of Carrboro.

Policy:
The Town of Carrboro will pay OWASA a subsidy of $2,000 per dwelling unit in existence as of January 25, 2005 on behalf of a property owner to cover any fees due to OWASA for the connection of a dwelling unit to a public sewer main. This subsidy will be paid for only existing dwelling units within the corporate limits of Carrboro that are not served by OWASA sewer at the effective date of this policy. This subsidy will be redeemed on first come first served basis as long as the established reserve and its accumulated interest exist.

For homes in Historic Rogers Road Neighborhood connecting to a public sewer main owned by Orange County and qualifying as low to moderate income, the entirety, 100%, of costs associated with the connection will be paid by Orange County for a period of two years from the effective date of this policy. For one additional year, the third year from the effective date of this policy, 50% of the costs associated with the connection will be paid by Orange County. The Town of Carrboro will reimburse Orange County 14% of the costs of the connection for this three year period or $34,020, whichever is less.

Following the three year period, the Town of Carrboro will pay Orange County a subsidy of $2,000 per dwelling unit in existence as of January 25, 2005 in Historic Rogers Road Neighborhood on behalf of a property owner to cover any fees due to Orange County for the connection of a dwelling unit to a public sewer main owned by the county for the duration of time the county remains the owner of the sewer main lines in the neighborhood. This subsidy will be redeemed on first come first served basis as long as the established reserve and its accumulated interest exist.

Procedure:
All eligible property owners who have contracted with OWASA to have their dwelling unit served by a public sewer and are interested in receiving the subsidy should contact the Town Clerk to complete a request for the subsidy. The Town Clerk will certify the eligibility of the request and notify OWASA. Upon receipt of an invoice, the Town will pay to OWASA $2,000 of the fees levied against the eligible property on behalf of the property owner.

For property in the Historic Rogers Road Neighborhood, Orange County shall invoice the Town of Carrboro for full or partial payment as specified above.

 919-918-7309

Statements of Domestic Partnership can be filed with the Town Clerk by appointment only. Call 919-918-7309 or email townclerk@carrboronc.gov to make an appointment. Please bring a photo ID for each party. The cost of filing is $40.00.

Taxes are collected by Orange County. Please contact the Tax Department at (919) 245-2725. The Town Clerk does not have any property or personal tax related information available.

Court records are handled by the NC Courts System and not at the local level. You should contact the Orange County Clerk of Court at (919) 644-4500. The Town Clerk's office does not have any involvement with any court related records.

All deeds are recorded with the Orange County Register of Deeds office. Please contact them at https://www.orangecountync.gov/3010/Register-of-Deeds or call 919-245-2675. 

The Town Hall reception desk is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

Do you see a way that we could improve life in Carrboro? Or did you receive a great service from a Town employee, and want to make sure they get recognized? Please complete this form and let us know!  https://www.carrboronc.gov/FormCenter/Town-Managers-Office-20/Town-of-Carrboro-Feedback-Form-238

For more information about voting and voter registration, visit the Orange County Board of Elections’ website: https://www.orangecountync.gov/1102/Voter-Registration

Engage Carrboro is a community engagement tool that allows residents to give input on topics that matter to community. Please visit the Engage Carrboro website at https://engage.carrboronc.gov/

Just fill out this form and we will contact you: http://www.townofcarrboro.org/FormCenter/Town-Managers-Office-20/Request-a-Field-Trip-to-Town-Hall-101

The Town has limited authority to intercede in disputes between tenants and landlords, but can assist in assessing the condition of the rental unit if a housing code violation is suspected. Contact Town of Carrboro Housing and Community Services if you are having trouble with your housing situation.

Email HousingHelp@orangecountync.gov if you are experiencing a housing crisis.

Know your rights. 

Orange County North Carolina Declaration of Tenant Rights and Obligations

Tenant Rights 

 Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance

 Fair Housing Project – Know Your Rights

If you believe you’ve experienced housing discrimination, think you are being discriminated against, contact the Orange County Human Rights & Relations department, 919-245-2487 or Human_Relations@orangecountync.gov

 File a complaint.

If you’re looking for an affordable apartment, The Housing Opportunity Finder can assist in the search. In addition to properties owned by nonprofit affordable housing providers, it also includes existing apartment complexes, many of which offer lower rents.

If you’re looking for affordable homeownership, the Town has compiled a list of nonprofit affordable housing providers, who not only provide housing affordability, but also ensure the property remains affordable well into the future.  Many of the nonprofits listed also own and manage rental homes and apartments. 

The Town’s Community Resources page can also point you to other housing-related resources.

Yes. The Orange County Health Department provides a list of resources and you can search the OC Connect database specifically for your needs.  Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness also has a comprehensive resource guide.

The Orange County Home Preservation Coalition (OCHPC) is a collaborative of organizations that provide home repairs, weatherization and disability or aging in place modifications to low-income Orange County residents, many of whom are older adults.  You can apply online or email Ryan Lavalley (rlavalley@orangecountync.gov) for more information.

Yes. Carrboro partners with Orange County and the Towns of Chapel Hill and Hillsborough to provide Emergency Housing Assistance to eligible households.  Applications are online and can also be obtained by calling the Housing Helpline at 919-245-2655 or by emailing HousingHelp@orangecountync.gov.

The parking lot at the corner of Sunset Drive and Rosemary Street is jointly owned by the Town of Carrboro and the Town of Chapel Hill. Just over half of the lot is owned and managed by Chapel Hill which does require paid parking. The other portion of the lot is owned and managed by Carrboro which does not require paid parking. Look for the spots with a sign that state "Carrboro Business Parking" to find the free parking spaces.

In short, no, the Town code does not allow cars to be parked in public parking lots past 3:00am.

No, at this time the Town does not rent or lease spaces in public parking lots to businesses or residents for their use.

Yes, the Town is currently working on implementing a wayfinding program to help citizens and visitors find available public parking locations. The Town anticipates signage to be installed before Summer 2024.

No, the parking lots surrounding Carr Mill Mall are for shoppers and visitors to Carr Mill Mall retailers, restaurants, and offices only (this also includes Harris Teeter and CVS). Parking here and leaving the property may result in your car being towed at your expense.

To be clear, businesses and other private parking lot operators can tow your car at any time for any reason as long as it is in compliance with State statues and Town ordinances since you are parked on private property.

Before they can tow a vehicle, however, State law requires that all private lots that tow must have a sign prominently displayed that states that parking is restricted to certain uses, that violators may be towed, and a phone number for retrieving the vehicle. Additionally, the Town requires that the Police Department be notified of such a towing situation within 30 minutes, that no fee will be charged unless a vehicle has been attached to the tow truck prior to the arrival of the owner, and that the sign must state that credit and debit cards are accepted for payment.

For a full list of requirements, see Section 8-78 et seq. in the Town Code and Section 8-4 in the Town Charter.

Yes, the Town Police Department has an online form to handle concerns about improper towing. A representative of the Police Department will investigate the complaint to ensure they are following the proper State and Town regulations.

The Town is restricted on what it can do to place limitations on towing on private property due to legal protections for private property owners and case law from King v. Town of Chapel Hill.

In this court case, the N.C. Supreme Court held that a municipality has the power to regulate towing within its jurisdiction under the general police power, G.S. 160A-174, to the extent the regulations rationally address issues affecting citizen health, safety, or welfare that arise when one’s car is involuntarily towed. Thus, the court upheld Chapel’s Hill’s signage and notice provisions regarding towing. However, the court struck down Chapel Hill’s regulation of fees that can be charged by towing companies because this type of regulation had no rational relationship with protecting health, safety, or welfare and unduly interfered with the right of towing companies “to the fruits of [their] own labor.”

Additionally, in North Carolina, municipalities are limited to exercising certain powers that are either expressly conferred or necessarily implied from enabling legislation passed by the General Assembly which may further limit the ability of the Town to take additional actions.

The Town of Carrboro will change addresses for residents and businesses within the following operations:

• U.S. Postal Service: You do not need to request a change of address form.
• Utilities: The Town will alert the following agencies regarding street name changes:
  • Orange County Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA) 
  • Orange County Tax Office
  • Duke Energy
  • Dominion Energy
• Voter Registration: The Town will notify the Orange County Board of Elections to update voting records.
• Emergency Services: the Town will update all of its emergency services of new street names, including:
  • Carrboro Police Department
  • Carrboro Fire-Rescue Department
  • 911

You do NOT need to notify these agencies. Your street name will be updated with no action on your part.

When you receive the Town of Carrboro Address Assignment Letter with your official new address, you can begin changing documents and personal records to the new address. 

• Department of Motor Vehicles - vehicle registration, driver’s license, state IDs
  • Address change can be done online – ID card replacement not required.
• Passports
  • No address change is required until passport is expired.
• IRS / Tax Advisor
  • Put new address on next tax filing and on Form 8822
  • Mail a letter with the following information: full name, new address, old address, date of birth, Social Security Number, Individual Taxpayer ID Number or Employer Identification Number.
• Wills & Trusts
  • No address change required, though if desired, the Town may provide certified letter as addendum to will/trust (if requested).
• Social Security
  • Address change is required if you are collecting Medicare benefits. The change can be made online at https://www.ssa.gov/ 
  • If you are collecting SSI, address change must be done in person.
• Financials
  • Banks and investment services
  • Loan issuers
  • Credit card companies
• Insurance
  • Health, dental, life, car, house and/or renters insurance
• Subscriptions
  

• Business listings on the internet and navigational maps
• Websites
• Business cards
• Promotional Items
• Social Media
• Directory Listings
• Certifications

A preliminary review of Town-owned properties was conducted in 2015 by staff and members of the Affordable Housing Task Force.  Parcels were excluded if they were designated for another use, or if they met any of the following criteria: 

1. Within a conservation easement 
2. Inside a Long-Term Interest Areas for future utility development 
3.  No water or sewer nearby 
4. Within 100-year floodplain 
5. Within dedicated right-of-way 
6. Parcel completely developed 
7. Inside Rural Buffer zoning

You can view the related Town Council agenda item here. 

A map of Town-owned properties can be found here.   

The site analysis must be conducted first to determine what is (and isn’t) possible on the parcels, including the number of units.  Any numbers that have been noted to date are theoretical and based on current zoning. The actual design/plans, and number of units, will be developed/determined in partnership with the community. 

A preliminary site analysis is an evaluation of the site's physical characteristics and a review of local, state, and federal regulatory requirements, both of which will identify issues that could affect development. For example, this analysis will test soil samples to provide information on soil erosion and soil-bearing strengths; define buildable area based on wetlands/setback requirements; and evaluate the topography.  

More details about what’s involved in a preliminary site assessment can be found here.  

The first step in the process is to conduct a site analysis to determine what is (and isn’t) possible on the properties.  Once the analysis is complete, the next step is to reach out to the neighborhood and Carrboro community to schedule community engagement opportunities.   

Working with a design consultant, the community will be very involved in creating the goals for and design of future development based on information from the site analysis, the comprehensive plan, ongoing community engagement, property factors such as location, unit potential, and other Town priorities such as racial equity and climate action.  There will be multiple opportunities for the public to engage in this process and affect the final design of the development.  Additionally, a public hearing(s) will be held before the Town Council considers final approval. 

We encourage residents to sign up to receive news and information that is sent directly to your email inbox. Visit www.carrboronc.gov/SIGNUP for Carrboro This Week (a weekly digest) and Carrboro Town News (more frequent updates). Included in the email newsletters are Town Council meeting agendas. The Town also publishes these same updates on Nextdoor, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. Additionally, Carrboro Town Council meetings are conveniently available on YouTube/CarrboroNC -- as well as the Town’s legislative portal at https://carrboro.legistar.com/

The length of the process depends on a variety of factors such as site analysis results, community engagement, site work, the RFQ process, etc.  The Town Council did approve exploring the use of an expedited review process that would prioritize affordable housing projects in the Planning, Zoning and Inspections (PZI) Department while maintaining compliance.  This review is technical in nature and is one of the last steps in the process, occurring after multiple community discussions and design workshops.

The initial site analysis will include an environmental assessment which evaluates many features and issues, including stormwater and a catalog of trees and their location.  

You can learn more about what’s involved in a preliminary site assessment here. 

Note: Interpretation is the facilitation of spoken communication between users of different languages. Translation is the transferring of written information from one language to another.

The Town of Carrboro’s Language Access Plan adopted in April 2024 requires the Town to make its best effort to ensure timely access to translation and interpretation services, translate its most commonly distributed documents into the six townwide languages, and post signage about the availability of free interpretation services, among other requirements. 

Spanish will be the initial focus for translation of documents, given how often staff encounter it on the job across different departments and that it is the most-spoken language of the community languages. Town staff will be working in the first year to find and vet language service providers who translate/interpret in all community languages. That way, if a request for interpretation or translation comes up for a community language other than Spanish, there will be a good idea of who can fulfill the request.

Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Karen, Burmese and Arabic 

The Language Access Plan uses Census data to determine the top six languages spoken by Carrboro residents with limited English proficiency, and to use Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools data to determine additional languages spoken by Carrboro residents with limited English proficiency.

Ask agency staff for interpretation services. Town departments are required to take reasonable steps to identify an individual’s preferred language assistance needs. 

If you speak one of the six designated townwide languages, ask if the materials you need are in your language. Town departments are required to translate their most-commonly-distributed documents into the 6 languages. Carrboro is beginning its commitment to providing language access services by updating documents into Spanish.

If you do not receive interpretation when seeking services from a Town of Carrboro department, call the Town of Carrboro Language Access Line at 919-918-7391. Complaints may also be filed by filling out a form online or by letter to the attention of the Communication & Engagement Department at 301 W. Main St. Carrboro, NC 27510. 

An assessment is technical advice given to a homeowner regarding possible solutions to flooding, drainage, erosion, or other stormwater-related concerns. 

An assessment consists of an onsite consultation with the assessment provider and a detailed report/assessment customized to the property and owner’s interests. 

Examples of suitable stormwater-related concerns

• Other drainage issues (e.g., extended yard saturation)
• Eroding slopes or stream channels
• Stream buffers
• Water quality

Examples of Unsuitable Requests 

• Home moisture (crawl spaces, basements) 
• Tree removal 
• General landscaping 

Single family residential property owners within the Town’s municipal limits are eligible.  

Possible Recommendations 

• Green stormwater infrastructure such as rain gardens and bioswales
• Impervious reduction or disconnection (dispersing rather than concentrating flow)
• Swale or ditch repairs 
• Rainwater harvesting (cisterns and rain barrels)
• Vegetation additions or adaptations 
• Building or mechanical system elevation adaptations 

Outside of Scope 

• Recommending specific contractors
• More detailed design/ engineering plans
• Project cost estimations
• Other project procurement or management assistance 

There are many ways to apply! 

• Apply online at https://www.carrboronc.gov/3111/residential-asssistance-program.  
• Download the application and mail it to 
   Town of Carrboro
   Attn: Stormwater Division, Public Works Department
   301 W. Main St, 
   Carrboro, NC 27510
• Call 919-913-2999 or send an email to stormwater@carrboronc.gov for a copy of the application.  
• Pick up an application at Town Hall.

Applications should be submitted as soon as possible; they will be screened, prioritized, and scheduled for assessment as they are received and accepted.

The only request for the participant beyond completing the application and participating in the onsite assessment is filling out a survey to assist the Town in evaluating the success of the program and providing guidance for future program development. Having an assessment does not mean that the homeowner is required to follow through with the advised recommendations. 

Applicants with suitable stormwater-related concerns who are within the Town’s municipal limits will receive an assessment. Applicants with unsuitable requests will be contacted to review their stormwater-related concerns and to provide further information.

Applicants will be contacted within a month of the receipt of the application. They may also call 919-913-2999 or email stormwater@carrboronc.gov for information and updates.  

Yes. An application can be withdrawn at any time by sending an email to stormwater@carrboronc.gov or calling 919-913-2999. 

The Town of Carrboro will provide the professional assessment through the Stormwater Assistance Coordinator position.

Assessments will take place as scheduled with the Stormwater Assistance Coordinator beginning in January 2025 and will continue as needed. The Stormwater Assistance Coordinator and the applicant will schedule a time together for the on-site visit.  

The Town has been working towards Title VI compliance and has made significant progress with the adoption of various plans (e.g., Language Access Plan, Race & Equity Action Plan, Carrboro Connects Comprehensive Plan) over the past five years. The adoption of the Title VI Plan consolidates these efforts and has been approved for compliance by the NC Department of Transportation Office of Civil Rights.

Private businesses are only covered if they receive federal financial assistance. The Town’s Title VI Plan does not cover discrimination by non-governmental institutions or disputes between community members. A Town staff workgroup will be exploring opportunities for the Town to support community members whose complaint fall outside the scope of Title VI as part of implementation.

Employment discrimination is covered under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Public complaints about employment discrimination should be directed to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Town employees should refer to grievance procedures in the Town of Carrboro Code or contact the EEOC.

Title VI refers to a provision of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin, in programs, services, and activities receiving federal financial assistance. Nondiscrimination coverage under Title VI has since been expanded to include all federally protected classes across all programs, services, and activities of federal aid recipients, not just those directly federally funded. 

A Title VI Plan establishes policies, practices, and procedures to prevent discrimination, including a complaint process for individuals who believe they have been discriminated against under Title VI. Specific requirements are outlined in 23 CFR §200.9(b)(11) and Chapter 3, Section 4 of FTA C 4702.1B.

Federal aid recipients through the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) must include nondiscrimination assurances in a Title VI Plan. As a recipient of USDOT funding through the NC Department of Transportation, the Town of Carrboro is required to have a Title VI Plan.

Protected classes include race, color, national origin, limited English proficiency, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, familial status, pregnancy, income level, National Guard or veteran status, or religion. Note that some protections are limited to specific cases involving employment, fair housing, or transportation programs. See the Town's Title VI Complaint Process & Procedures for more information.

Discriminatory acts may include denial of services based on protected status, use of slurs or stereotypes by Town staff, or lack of access to essential services based on language spoken.

Title VI complaints can be filed with the Town of Carrboro and/or related state/federal agency. Title VI complaints filed with the Town of Carrboro should be via mail, email, telephone, or hand delivery to the Town of Carrboro Title VI Coordinator within 180 days of the alleged discrimination. Title VI complaint forms are available on the Town website and in the vestibule at Carrboro Town Hall.

Submitting a Title VI complaint with the Town of Carrboro is not a prerequisite to filing a timely Title VI complaint with the applicable state or federal agency having jurisdiction over the complaint. See the Town's Title VI Complaint Process & Procedures for more information on how to submit a Title VI complaint to a state or federal agency.

The Title VI Coordinator acknowledges receipt of Title VI complaint within ten calendar days, reviews it for completeness, and determines jurisdiction. If accepted, a decision to investigate is made within fifteen days, and the complainant and respondent are notified. Efforts to resolve the complaint, including mediation, aim to be completed within 60 days. 

See the Town's Title VI Complaint Process & Procedures for more information.

The Title VI Plan will be updated annually in response to changes in federal laws, rules, and regulations, and include a Title VI Compliance Report documenting progress and goalsetting for the upcoming year.

Visit the Town of Carrboro Title VI Plan Webpage for information on the Town's nondiscrimination obligations and the Title VI complaint process.

For questions about the Town’s Title VI obligations, please contact Bear Tose’ at btose@carrboronc.gov.

The Town is working with outside attorneys and groups so the Town and taxpayers have no legal fees. A modest amount of Town staff time is being invested to assist with various aspects of the case.

Third party groups are covering legal expenses. The Town has a retainer with Lewis and Roberts that provides that the Town is not responsible for any fees or costs for the suit.

Please contact agencies directly for their specific hours.

The Orange County Southern Branch Library is currently open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday. After Feb. 21 (grand opening day), the library hours will be 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday. 

Carrboro Recreation, Parks and Cultural Resources regular office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for staff member appointments. Programming hours will vary for special activities and events.  

Access the parking garage from Roberson Street. Public parking is available on levels 1-3.  

For more about parking in downtown Carrboro, visit www.CarrboroNC.gov/Parking

All reservation requests will be reviewed through appropriate organizations (Orange County Southern Branch Library, Carrboro Recreation, Parks and Cultural Resources, etc.)

• Reserve Library meeting rooms through Orange County here.
• Reserve Town of Carrboro rooms here.

The Town of Carrboro contracted with Griffin & Strong in 2023 to conduct the Disparity Study.

Procurement data was analyzed from July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2022.

The Relevant Geographic Market Area for this study was the 10 counties surrounding Carrboro, NC including Alamance County, Caswell County, Chatham County, Durham County, Granville County, Orange County, Person County, Wake County, Johnston County, and Guilford County. This is the region that approximately 84.05% of all purchases were made during the study period.

The five industry categories that were studied were Construction, Architecture and Engineering (A&E), Professional Services, Other Services, and Goods.

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. Local governments must ensure that their programs, services, activities, and facilities are accessible to all community members.

An ADA Transition Plan is a required planning document that identifies physical barriers in public facilities and public rights‑of‑way, outlines strategies for removing those barriers, and sets a schedule and budget for improvements. It also identifies the staff responsible for implementation.

Accessibility barriers on private property fall into a different legal category than barriers on public facilities or public rights‑of‑way, and Carrboro’s authority over them is more limited. Carrboro can require ADA-related compliance when a private property owner is seeking a permit for new construction, major renovations or use changes through the Carrboro Land Use Ordinance and NC Building Code. Outside of permitting, the Town cannot require a private business or property owner to retrofit their building solely under local authority, but can work to educate property owners, encourage voluntary compliance, and provide resources/technical guidance.

Federal regulations require all public entities with more than 50 employees to develop and maintain an ADA Transition Plan. It demonstrates compliance with the ADA and helps ensure that public facilities and services are accessible to everyone.

To request a reasonable accommodation or auxiliary aid/service for effective communication, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ada@carrboronc.gov or 919-913-3193, preferably at least 14 days before the activity or event. 

To report an accessibility issue, please submit an ADA Complaint Form. You may also file a complaint directly with the ADA Coordinator by email or phone. Include your name, address, phone number, a description of the alleged action, the date(s) of the alleged action, any prior accommodation requests and responses, and a description of any known regulatory violations. The ADA Coordinator will document the information on a complaint form and follow up with you before processing the complaint. For more information on the process and procedures, please click here.