Laws &
Guidelines
The state Legislature has given towns authority to regulate land development for public health, safety and welfare. Development regulations also apply within Cary’s extra-territorial jurisdiction, or ETJ, which state law says may extend up to three miles beyond Town limits.
What We Regulate
Regulations include the Land Development Ordinance, Cary Code of Ordinances, municipal laws that the Town Council has adopted. Check for new or amended ordinances that have not yet been added to the code book.
Frequently requested information on annexation petitions, fences, home occupations, buffers, signs, tree cutting, zoning and much more
Rules for developing, using or clearing vacant land
Making changes to an existing development
Permits for decks and small additions or renovation projects at home
Report a violation
by e-mailing us or by
calling the Planning Department at (919) 469-4082.
What We Don't Regulate
The Town does not control or regulate whether homes are occupied by the owners or by renters.
The Town does not control such things as the color or size of the house. However, your homeowner's association may have such restrictions.
Guidelines
Guidelines are official policies that provide recommendations as specified by Town Council directive, the Land Use Plan, or another element of the Comprehensive Plan.
Community
Appearance Manual
Design
Guidelines Manual
Design
Guidelines for Town Center
Design
Principles
Town
Policies