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911 - When You Call 911

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1. What should I expect when I call 911?

The first thing you should hear if you call 911 from within the county is "New Hanover County 911, what is the address of your emergency?" After you give the 911 Telecommunicator your location and a brief description of your situation, the following will take place:

1. The appropriate emergency responders will be immediately dispatched to the location of the incident through the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.
2. The CAD system will prompt the 911 Telecommunicator to ask you a series of questions for important details about the emergency. Although some questions may seem redundant or irrelevant, it is important that you answer them as clearly and accurately as possible.
3. The 911 Telecommunicator inputs your answers into the CAD system, and another Telecommunicator relays the information to the emergency responders over the radio.
4. Depending on the situation, the Telecommunicator may give you instructions to assist with the emergency until help arrives. For example, in a serious medical emergency in which CPR is needed, the Telecommunicator will talk the caller through the steps that may help save a person's life.
5. The 911 Telecommunicator will tell you when it is ok to hang up.

It is important to remain on the line until they tell you it is ok to hang up in case the emergency responders need constant updates about your situation. By continuing to answer questions concerning medical conditions or suspects, you will help provide the emergency responders with information that will prepare them to address the situation as effectively as possible when they arrive on the scene.

2. Why am I being asked so many questions?

During an emergent situation, it may seem as though you are being asked several questions that to an untrained professional seem irrelevant or redundant. However, these questions are asked to help ensure we are getting you the quickest response possible and allow us to not only keep the responders updated while on the way but also help provide you with guidance on what to do until they arrive. 

911 Telecommunicators are the First, First Responders. They are all extensively trained to provide you help for your Medical, Law Enforcement, or Fire emergencies until the First Responder arrives. It's important that you know that while you are answering questions another Telecommunicator inside the same room is dispatching Fire, Law and/or EMS to your location after you have answered the first few questions during an emergent situation. All questions asked and answered after that are necessary for providing First Responders with the information, they need to assist you once they arrive at the scene.

It’s important that you answer all questions asked by your Telecommunicator as it helps us to help you.

3. What information is the most important when calling 911?

Location, location, location! The first thing theTelecommunicators will ask when you call 911 is, “What is the address of your emergency?” It’s important that you give them that location, first and foremost. Even if your call is disconnected for any reason, the Telecommunicators will know a starting location to send First Responders so you can receive the assistance you need. 

A big misconception is that we automatically know your location. Although cellphone providers and technology have greatly improved over the years, we still must ask for and confirm the location of the emergency.   

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911 Communications

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1. Can my cellphone dial 911 if it has been disconnected?

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) law requires wireless service providers to connect calls to 911, even if the caller does not subscribe to the provider's service. FCC law also requires wireless services to provide a caller's phone number and location to 911 communications centers. The location provided must be accurate within a range of 50 to 300 meters depending on available location technology.

Please keep in mind that often times when kids are given disconnected cell phones and realize that they can speak to a live person they continuously call in and tie up our emergency lines.

2. What if I have special needs?

If you are confined to a bed, immobilized by illness, on oxygen, or have other special needs that would be helpful for emergency responders to know, please submit a Computer Aid Dispatch (CAD) Information Form (PDF) to the 911 Communications Center. The information will be added to your location in the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, and will be displayed automatically when 911 is called from your location.

Please fax forms to 910-798-6925 or mail to:

New Hanover County 911 Communications
230 Government Center Dr., Suite 185
Wilmington, NC 28403

Additionally, you are encouraged to sign up for the Special Needs Registry in case an emergency or disaster affects our area.

3. What should I do if I accidentally call 911?

If you accidentally dial 911, it is important that you stay on the line to let the Telecommunicator know there is no emergency. If someone accidentally dials 911 and hangs up, or if 911 is accidentally dialed and the line is left open, it is considered an abandoned call. When an abandoned call is received, the 911 Telecommunicator will immediately try to call back to verify whether or not there is an emergency. If the call is not answered or the line is busy, a law enforcement officer will be dispatched to the location where the call originated to attempt to contact the caller.

4. Can I text 911?

Yes, however texting should only be used if you are not able to call 911. New Hanover County's Public Safety Communications Center is able to respond to text messages sent to 911, however this service is not available in all areas of North Carolina or the United States.

If You Must Text 911

1. Enter "911" in the "To" field. Do not include additional phone numbers in your emergency text as the text-to-911 service does not support multiple recipients.
2. Send the location and brief description of the emergency, with the type of help needed, in the body of the text.
3. Be prepared to answer additional questions from the 911 operator.
4. Use simple words.
5. Do not use abbreviations.
6. Keep text messages brief and concise.

Keep in mind that 911 text messages can take longer to receive, may be sent out of order, or may not connect with the 911 center depending on your cell phone's signal. If text-to-911 is not supported in your area or is temporarily unavailable, you will receive a message indicating you need to call or use a telecommunications relay service to reach 911.

Additional Things to Keep in Mind if You Must Text 911

• A text or data plan is required to send a text to 911
• Text-to-911 is not available if you are roaming
• Photos and videos cannot be sent via text to 911 at this time

For more information and to check the availability of text-to-911 in other areas, visit the FCC's website.

5. How do I request a record from a 911 call?

Requests for audio recordings or transcripts from 911 calls must be placed in person at the 911 Communications office, located at 230 Government Center Drive, Suite 185. Requests are accepted Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. Visit the 911 Records Request page for more details.

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Arboretum & NCSU Extension Service

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1. Is the Arboretum free to visit, and if not what is the cost and where do I buy tickets?

The Arboretum is free to visit and a ticket is not normally required. Occasionally, the Arboretum may have a ticketed special event and ticket information can be found on the event page, or on the Arboretum homepage under Events.

2. Can I take my wedding / engagement / family / prom photos at the Arboretum?

Yes, we’d love to help you celebrate your special occasion! During regular business hours, there is no fee to use the gardens for your session. A photography permit is not required unless for a commercial shoot. If you, or your photographer, wish to have access to the property after hours there is a fee and a request should be submitted via the online form.

3. Is the Arboretum accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes! There are a number of parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities. Benches are located throughout the gardens for any of our guests who would like a place to sit and rest and the majority of the paths are paved or compact gravel and suitable for wheelchairs or walkers.

4. Can I take a tour?

Yes, tours are offered by our Extension Master Gardener Volunteers. Tours are offered at no cost. Please complete a tour request form and a master gardener will be in touch to schedule a tour.

5. Are dogs allowed?

Dogs are welcome, as long as you remember:

• Dogs must always be on a leash.
• Don't forget to pick up after them! Waste bags are available at a few locations on site (please also bring your own bags), and trash cans are accessible throughout the property.

6. Are there picnic tables on site?

Yes, the Arboretum has 2 picnic areas.

The first is located towards the rear of the gardens between the Camellia Walk and the Japanese Garden and is shaded by trees. The 2nd location is beside the greenhouse and has no shade though the 3 tables each have an umbrella. Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

There are other smaller groups of tables and chairs located around the property that are also available for use on a first come first served basis.

7. Is smoking permitted?

For the health of our visitors, we are a smoke and vapor-free environment.

8. Where are the restrooms?

Restrooms are available in the Hutaff Center on weekdays between 10 am and 4 pm. Outside those hours there is a restroom beside the greenhouse.

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Board of Elections

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1. When is Election Day and what are the hours for voting?

The 2022 Statewide General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. All 43 of our Precincts will be open on Election Day to serve registered voters on Election Day. On Election Day, the hours for the 43 New Hanover County precincts are 6:30 am to 7:30 pm.

2. How do I become an election official?

Election Official Application

3. How do I register to vote in New Hanover County?

The North Carolina Voter Registration Form (PDF) can be found on the NC State Board of Elections website. You may also register to vote at the DMV when you acquire your drivers license. Physical copies of the registration form can be found at the office of the New Hanover County Board of Elections, your local public library, or other county agencies.

4. How do I request voter registration data?

The New Hanover County Board of Elections will fulfill public data requests for voter registration and voter history information. It is important to be specific about the type of data you are requesting as well as the file format. Please remit the signed request form to New Hanover County Board of Elections via fax, mail, or hand delivery. Please allow up to five business days for all requests to be processed.

Complete a request form for public information

5. My relative has passed away recently and needs to be removed from your records.

Fill out the Notice of Deceased Voter form (PDF).

6. I have moved from New Hanover County and need to be removed from your records.

Fill out the Voter Removal Form (PDF).

7. Where do I vote?

Your polling place will be in a location close to your home dependent upon where you live in the county. 

Find your polling place

8. Who is my representative?

View an interactive map of elected officials

Enter your address to be shown a list of all elected officials who represent your jurisdiction.

9. How do I contact my representative?

Find a list of current elected officials as well as links to their individual websites.

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Board of Elections - Absentee Voting - MATs

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1. What is a MAT?

A Multipartisan Assistance Team, or "MAT", is a group appointed by the New Hanover County Board of Elections to provide assistance with absentee-by-mail voting to voters living at assisted-living facilities.

MAT visits help facilities ensure compliance with N C. General Statute §163-226.3(a)(4). According to this statute, the following individuals are legally prohibited from providing absentee assistance to voters who are NOT disabled: owners, managers, directors, and employees of hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or rest homes ("facilities"). Violation of this law is a Class I felony [N.C.G.S. § 163-226.3].

Important Note Regarding the Assistance to Disabled Voters in North Carolina

In July 2022, a federal court issued an order that struck down state laws barring certain individuals from helping disabled voters request, complete, and submit absentee ballots.

As a result of that order, a disabled absentee voter may receive assistance from any person they choose. They may still request and use a MAT team, but they are not required to do so. They may receive assistance from the staff of the hospital, clinic, nursing home, or rest home where they are a patient or resident. They may also receive assistance from an elected official, political party officeholder, or candidate.

In recognition of the fact that some facility residents and patients may not have access to a near relative or legal guardian to provide them with assistance, MATs ensure that facility residents are provided lawful assistance in voting. The makeup of MAT teams includes, at minimum, two voters whose voter registration is affiliated with two different political parties (or, in the alternative, those who were unanimously appointed by a bipartisan County Board of Elections) who are trained to provide absentee voting assistance.

2. What services do MATs offer?

MATs offer two major services:

• Requesting an absentee-by-mail ballot
  • To receive an absentee ballot, a State Absentee Ballot Request Form (PDF) must be completed. MATs provide this form and may help fill it out if necessary. The MAT will deliver the completed form back to the Board of Elections office, and the ballot will be mailed to the voter in the following days.
• Casting an absentee-by-mail ballot
  • Once a mail-in absentee ballot has been requested, the ballot will arrive in the mail. MATs can help with marking the ballot, completing the return envelope and serving as witnesses to the act of voting.

3. Who can schedule a MAT visit?

If you are a voter living in a facility and would like to schedule a MAT visit, contact the activity coordinator of your facility. If you do not know who the activity coordinator is, or if there is no activity coordinator, talk to staff or management at your facility. These representatives can use the online form to schedule a MAT visit for any residents who are in need of these resources.

4. How do I schedule a MAT Visit?

If you are a facility representative, such as an activity coordinator, who would like to schedule a MAT visit for your facility, please use the online form. Once the request has been submitted, a New Hanover County Board of Elections representative will be in touch with process information and scheduling.

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Building Safety - General Questions

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1. Where can I view a demonstration of the New Single-Family Residential Building Permit?

Please click the link to view the demonstration for the New Single-Family Residential Building Permit: Residential Building Permit Demonstration.

2. Where are the current codes located?

Please click the link to view the Current and Past codes: https://www.ncosfm.gov/codes/codes-current-and-past

3. How do I contact the Building Safety Department?

Please email your questions to Building Safety at Coast@nhcgov.com or call 910-798-7308.

4. What is the deadline to request a next business day inspection?

Please request your inspection on your Coast portal before 3:30 pm for the next business day inspection. 

5. How can I apply for my trade permit under the Building permit?

1. Log on to your Customer Online Application & Services Tool COAST account
2. Click the My Work tab under Permit, and type in the permit number in the search field
3. Click on the permit number, and under Sub-Case, find the applicable permit to apply for and fill out the information
4. Click Submit when the application is complete

6. Where do I find the status of my review?

1. Log on to your Customer Online Application & Services Tool COAST account
2. Go to the My Work tab under Permit to search and view the permit
3. The Summary page will show you the progress of your Plan Review. It can also be viewed by scrolling under Workflow
4. You can view the status of each review by clicking Reviews and clicking each category to see the status

7. Where are my stamped approved plans?

When your plans are approved and stamped, they will be under your permit’s Attachments tab in the Customer Online Application & Services Tool (COAST).

8. I'm trying to apply for a permit, but the address isn't in the system. What do I do?

Please try searching with the address number and the first few letters of the street name until you see the correct address appear. You can keep adding letters to narrow down your search.

9. What are the file standards for a submittal?

File standards are a way to help with consistency when submitting plans and supporting documents.

Please see the Building Safety File Standards document for the file standards required for submittal:

10. Why can't I upload any documents?

You will be able to upload documents after all agencies complete their plan review.

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Building Safety - Inspections

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1. How do I find my inspector's name and phone number?

To locate your inspector's name and number, click where it says "Today's Inspections" in the top navigation on COAST.

Find the Search field, and enter your permit number there. Inspector's name and phone number may be found in the inspections table under your inspection number.

*Please note, for the fastest response, text your Inspector directly at the phone number provided. 

2. What is the deadline to request a next business day inspection?

Please request your inspection on your Coast portal before 3:30 pm for the next business day inspection.

3. I need to cancel my inspection, why can't I do it on COAST?

COAST does not currently have the ability to cancel same-day inspections.

For the fastest service, you may text your Inspector directly to cancel your appointment. 

To locate your inspector's name and number, click where it says "Today's Inspections" in the top navigation on COAST.

Find the Search field, and enter your permit number there.Inspector's name and phone number may be found in the inspections table under your inspection number.

*Please note, for additional assistance, you may email coast@nhcgov.com. 

4. What time will my inspection take place?

Inspections take place between the hours of 8:00 am-5:00 pm.

On average, New Hanover County Building Safety performs approximately 300 inspections per day. Each inspection time varies from 5 minutes to 2 hours.

Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee a specific timeframe.

5. Do the inspector's have ladders, or do I have to provide one?

Inspectors do not carry ladders. You will be required to provide a ladder if needed.

6. I need to add a document for my inspection, but the attachments section won’t allow for me to do so.

1. Open the permit on the Customer Online Application & Services Tool (COAST)
2. Click the Inspections tab
3. Select the scheduled inspection
4. When the inspection opens, click the Attachments tab, and upload the document
5. Click Submit

7. I can't schedule my inspection because of pre-requisites, what is that?

Pre-requisites are in place, ensuring the steps will be followed in the required order per the North Carolina Department of Insurance (NCDOI).

Email the Customer Online Application & Services team and let us know if you are unable to request your inspection. Please reference your permit number in the subject line.

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Building Safety - Permits

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1. Where can I view a demonstration of the New Single-Family Residential Building Permit?

Please click the link to view the demonstration for the New Single-Family Residential Building Permit: Residential Building Permit Demonstration.

2. Do I need a permit?

To be sure of what permit or documentation is required, you can view the county’s Permit Chart (PDF). This chart provides general guidance on what permits are required for each project.

3. Can I speak to the plan reviewer about their comments?

Yes, Plan Reviewers are available Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. To reach a reviewer, please call 910-798-7308.

4. Has the power release been sent? Duke / Piedmont says they don’t have it.

A power release is processed and emailed to Duke/Piedmont following an approved inspection. Please allow 24 to 48 hours to process the release.

5. Why is there a hold on my permit?

There are various reasons why a permit may be placed on hold, like an expired permit or additional information is needed. 

If your permit is on hold, you can email the Customer Online Application & Services team to inquire. Please reference your permit number in the subject line.

6. What do I need to include with my permit application?

Different permits have different requirements, so you will want to check the details listed on your permit application. 

Once you access COAST and select the permit application you need, there will be a list of requirements. Any additional forms required will also be linked to the application.

7. My permit expired, what do I need to do?

If your permit has expired, please re-apply for your permit. Permits are not valid after expiration.

8. How can I get a partial Certificate of Occupancy (CO) so I can occupy before the final CO?

Please email the Customer Online Application & Services team to request a partial Certificate of Occupancy. Reference your permit number in the subject line.

9. Why is Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) / City of Wilmington Zoning holding up my permit?

There are a number of reasons other agencies may hold your permit. If your permit is on hold by CFPUA or the City of Wilmington, you can contact them directly at the numbers listed below:

• CFPUA: 910-332-6550.
• City of Wilmington Zoning: 910-254-0900.

10. What are the file standards for a submittal?

File standards are a way to help with consistency when submitting plans and supporting documents.

Please see the Building Safety File Standards document for the file standards required for submittal:

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Commission & Clerk

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1. How do I contact the Clerk of Court?

The Clerk of Court's office can be reached at 910-772-6600.

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Communications & Outreach

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1. What does County Communications do?

The Communications and Outreach department helps the county and it's departments communicate with the public.

2. Who are the County Communications team?

A bunch of devastatingly good looking individuals who make the rest look good too.

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Communications - Small Business Grants

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1. Who is eligible?

To be eligible, businesses must meet all of the following criteria:

• Located in New Hanover County (including the unincorporated area, City of Wilmington, and the towns of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach)
• At least one of the owners is a New Hanover County resident
• More than one and less than 25 employees (including full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees)
• Existing commercial enterprise that has been in operation for more than 6 months, with a valid Tax ID
• Experienced layoffs, furloughs, expenditures or loss of revenue due to COVID-19
• In good tax standing with all Federal, State and local governments (or have a payment plan in place prior to March 10, when Governor Roy Cooper declared a statewide state of emergency)

2. Who isn’t eligible?

Businesses who meet any one of the following criteria are not eligible:

• Located outside New Hanover County
• Owners do not live in New Hanover County
• Only one employee
• 25 or more employees
• Debarred or suspended from working with North Carolina
• Pending bankruptcy

In addition, the county is following guidance from the federal Small Business Administration on specific types of ineligible businesses. These include financial institutions, nonprofits, home-based businesses, religious organizations, gambling outfits and illegal businesses.

Small Business Administration Guidance

3. How many businesses will receive grants?

The $1.3 million program will provide grants to 130 small businesses.

4. How much are the grants?

The grants will award flat amounts of $10,000 to each qualifying small business.

5. How much time do I have to spend the grant funds?

The funds must be spent by December 30, 2020.

6. Do I have to pay the grant back?

These are grants, not loans, and will not have to be repaid unless there are unspent grant funds as of December 30, 2020, or if the program’s rules are not followed.

7. What happens if I don’t spend all $10,000?

If there are unspent funds as of December 30, 2020, that money would have to be returned to New Hanover County.

8. What happens if the money is spent on something other than an eligible use?

Each awardee is required to track expenses and will be required to submit a final accounting form documenting the use of grant funds by January 20, 2021. This accounting form is subject to an audit by the county. If funds are spent on something other than the eligible uses, that money will have to be paid back.

9. What can I use the money for?

Eligible expenses include using the money to hire or rehire staff displaced because of COVID-19 or to purchase equipment or supplies that help you ensure you meet social distancing and sanitation guidelines. Examples could include equipment or supplies, like masks, gloves, face shields, social distancing markings, curtains to provide separation for customers or sneeze guards, that you ordinarily wouldn’t have purchased if COVID-19 had never happened.

10. What can I not use the money for?

The grant funds can’t be used for anything that isn’t equipment, supplies or payroll expenses related to COVID-19. This includes paying your rent, car payments or purchasing equipment or material that you would use in the course of everyday business had COVID-19 never happened. You also cannot use the funds to pay the salary of the business owner(s).

11. Do I have to pay taxes on this money?

New Hanover County suggests you consult with a tax professional if you have questions about taxes or how this impacts your business.

12. Where is the money coming from?

The grant fund is being established from an allocation New Hanover County received from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Stability (CARES) Act and approved by the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners.

13. Why are you doing this program?

The U.S. Treasury Department’s guidance for CARES Act funds allows local governments to provide grants to small businesses whose operations have been interrupted by local and state closures and restrictions implemented due to COVID-19. The county and Board of Commissioners believe it is important to allocate a portion of the CARES Act funds to provide a lifeline to as much of the small business community as possible.

14. How do I apply?

Small businesses can apply starting Monday, June 1 through Friday, June 5 at 5 pm using a simple application that takes only minutes to complete. The application (PDF) should be emailed to Wilmington Business Development (WBD).

WBD and Live Oak Bank will serve as third-party administrators of the program, with WBD collecting applications and Live Oak Bank disbursing the funds after awardees are selected. Both entities are providing their services free of charge.

15. How are you going to pick who gets the grants?

Recognizing that the demand will likely exceed the available funding, the county will work with Wilmington Business Development to collect all applications by June 5, and then – using a randomized lottery computer program – the 130 awardees will be chosen without any personal or political considerations.

16. If I’m selected, how will you notify me?

Wilmington Business Development (WBD), which is the third party collecting applications, will send you an email and make one telephone call to follow up. The lottery selection will take place the week of June 8, with selected businesses being notified around June 10. Please make sure to regularly check your email and any spam filters after June 8.

If you do not receive a call or email from WBD, you have not been selected for the program.

17. If I’m selected, what do I have to provide?

You will need to provide a signed incentive grant agreement (the agreement will be sent to you upon notification), a voided check, and have your application form notarized within 48 hours after you are notified of selection by Wilmington Business Development (this notification for selection will likely come around June 10). In light of COVID-19, the N.C. Secretary of State has provided guidance that notaries can temporarily perform emergency video notarizations.

18. What happens if I don’t provide all of the necessary documentation?

Your application would be disqualified and another awardee would be randomly selected.

19. If I’m selected, how will I get the money?

The money will be disbursed via direct deposit to provide the funds as quickly as possible in mid-to-late June (selected businesses will need to provide a voided check with routing number and account number). If you do not have any available checks, your bank should be able to provide you with a voided counter check. Funds will be disbursed through Live Oak Bank, a third-party administrator of this grant program.

20. What if I’m not selected?

There is a limited amount of funds available at this time, but there is the possibility of a future small business grant program being established if more federal aid is disbursed and allows for such a program again.

21. When will you disburse the money?

We will begin collecting applications in early June and disburse the funds to the 130 randomly selected businesses by mid-to-late June.

22. Am I eligible if I live outside of New Hanover County, but my business is in New Hanover County; or I live in New Hanover County, but my business is outside the county?

Given the limited scope of the grant program, the aid is targeted to businesses located in New Hanover County with at least one owner being a New Hanover County resident.

23. Am I eligible if I live in New Hanover County, but my business partner lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as at least a share of the business is owned by a New Hanover County resident, you are eligible to apply.

24. Who can I contact with questions?

For questions about the grant program, call 910-798-7597 or email us.

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Community Justice Services

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1. Where do I park when I visit your office?

We share a parking lot with Thalion Hall. Please park in the visitor spaces marked in yellow. There is a 2 hour time limit.

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COVID-19 Information

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1. Where can I find more COVID-19 data, like hospitalizations or testing?

Hospitalizations: Hospitalization data is provided and updated by the NC Department of Health and Human Services and the CDC.

Testing Data: COVID-19 testing data is provided by the NC Department of Health and Human Services and is updated on their dashboard. Additionally, you can see statewide information about testing, hospitalizations, outbreaks and clusters, and more on the NCDHHS dashboard.

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COVID-19 Symptoms

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1. What is novel coronavirus COVID-19?

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease caused by a new virus first identified in Wuhan, China.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in many different species of animals. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

About 80% of COVID-19 cases are mild. Many people may not even realize they are sick. Those at greatest risk of complications if infected with COVID-19 are the elderly and those with immune deficiencies and chronic health issues.

New Hanover County Public Health is working closely with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health, and other health and local partners in monitoring the virus. New Hanover County has a framework for response specific to COVID-19 in place.

Some travel guidance and restrictions are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. For travel restriction information, visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

2. Who should get tested for COVID-19?

While there is no substitute for a conversation with a medical provider, Check My Symptoms is a public website that allows you to enter your symptoms to see if you should get tested for COVID-19. After entering symptoms - if getting tested is recommended - you'll receive a text or email with how to find nearby testing locations. The symptom checker is an informational tool to help you determine if you may need to be tested; however, it is not a physician order. Some testing locations may require additional screenings.

Visit Find My Testing Place, an interactive map on the NCDHHS COVID-19 website that allows you to enter your ZIP code and get a list of nearby testing site locations. It is free and available in many languages. Click on the Google Translate dropdown menu to select your preferred language.

If you do not have internet or smartphone access, you can call the NHC Pandemic Operations Call Center at 910-798-6800 for local testing resources available to you.

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COVID-19 Testing

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1. Who should get a COVID-19 test?

If you have symptoms that could be COVID-19, you should test immediately.

If you have been around someone that tests positive for COVID but do not have symptoms, you should start taking precautions like wearing a face covering and test 5 days after your exposure.

Certain high-risk environments may require a test as a screening process.

Consider testing before you are going to be around someone that is at high risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19.

COVID-19 Symptoms

• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fever
• Chills
• Repeated shaking with chills
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Sore throat
• New loss of taste or smell

COVID-19 testing is available throughout New Hanover County through local healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other organizations. 

2. What should I do after my COVID-19 test?

Steps to Take Immediately After Your COVID-19 Test

If you have COVID-19, or are sick and believe you could have COVID-19, you should follow current CDC isolation guidelines regardless of your vaccination status.  

For a limited time, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and StarMed Healthcare have teamed up to offer free telemedicine appointments for those that have tested positive for COVID-19.  These appointments can screen you for COVID-19 treatment eligibility and if you are eligible for treatment it is important to start it as soon as possible.  Appointments are available 7 days a week from 9 am to 7 pm and insurance is not required.  Appointments can be made at https://starmed.care/nc/ or by calling, 704-941-6000.

If you were tested for COVID-19 but have no symptoms and no known or suspected exposure to someone with COVID19 (for example, as part of a workplace screening program), you do not need to stay home while waiting for your results unless you are told to do so by your employer or by a public health official.

If You Test Positive for COVID-19 with No Symptoms

Begin isolation, day 0 is the day you take your test and day 1 is the first full day after you take the test. If you do not develop symptoms you may end isolation after 5 days. If you develop symptoms within 10 days of your test, the isolation clock resets to 0 on the day symptoms start. 

If You Test Positive for COVID-19 with Symptoms

Begin isolation, day 0 is the day your symptoms start regardless of when you test.

During Isolation 

• Stay home and stay separated from others in your home for at least 5 days.
• Wear a high-quality, well fitting mask if you must be around others in your home.
• Improve ventilation in the home, if possible.
• Use a separate bathroom, if possible.
• Do not share household items such as towels and dishes.
• Be aware of your symptoms and seek emergency medical care if needed.
• Do not travel.

Ending Isolation

• If you did not have symptoms, you can end isolation after day 5.
• If you had symptoms, you can end isolation after 5 days if you are fever free for 24 hours without medication and your symptoms are improving.
• If you experienced moderate or severe illness, or have a weakened immune system, isolate for 10 days or until advised by your medical provider.

Take extra precautions and wear a well fitting face covering for 10 full days after your positive test, or until you have two negative antigen tests, 48 hours apart.

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COVID-19 Vaccine

Show All Answers

1. Where can I get a vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccines are now available to anyone 6 months and older that wants a vaccine. Vaccines are being given by Public Health, hospitals, health care providers, clinics, and pharmacies in the community. 

Vaccines and boosters are available at the New Hanover County Health & Human Services Clinic located at 1650 Greenfield Street in Wilmington, NC.  Vaccines and boosters are available Monday to Fridays from 8 am to 5 pm with extended hours until 6 pm on Tuesdays.  

More Information

CDC - What to Expect at Your Appointment to Get Vaccinated for COVID-19

2. Can children receive the vaccine?

Both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines have been approved by the FDA and CDC for children 6 months to 17 years. The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine has been approved by the FDA and CDC for individuals 12 years and older.  In studies, these COVID-19 vaccines reduced the rate of COVID-19 infection and provided strong protection against severe illness and hospitalization. Parents can learn more at NCDHHS.gov. Parental consent is required for children ages 6 months to 15 years old prior to receiving the vaccine.  The following vaccines are available at New Hanover County Health and Human Services. 

Pfizer

6 months to 4 years: Three dose bivalent vaccine series

Ages 5 and older: One dose bivalent vaccine

Moderna

6 months to 5 years: Two dose bivalent vaccine series

Ages 6 and older: One dose bivalent vaccine

More Informations

• FDA
  • FDA Authorizes Changes to Simplify Use of Bivalent mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines
  • FDA Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet
  • FDA Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet
• CDC
  • CDC simplifies COVID-19 vaccine recommendations
  • CDC Recommendations for Children Aged 6 Months—5 Years
  • CDC Recommendation for Everyone Aged 6 Years and Older
• NCDHHS
  • New Guidance: Only Updated COVID-19 Vaccines Now Available, People at High Risk May Receive Additional Dose

3. Where can I get more information about COVID-19 vaccines?

It's important to follow trusted sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information about the COVID-19 vaccine, some of those include:

• North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Vaccine Information
  • Frequently Asked Questions
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Vaccine Information
  • Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination
• Food and Drug Administration Vaccine Information
• Mayo Clinic - COVID-19 vaccine myths debunked

More Information about the approved vaccines:

CDC - Different COVID-19 Vaccines

FDA - Pfizer Vaccine Information

FDA - Moderna Vaccine Information

FDA - Janssen Vaccine Information

FDA - Novavax Vaccine Information

4. Why should I get the vaccine?

The vaccine will protect you from getting COVID-19, help prevent severe illness and the spread of the virus in our community, and save lives.

There is no way to know how your body will fight COVID-19 or the impact the illness could have if spread to members of your family, to friends, or other close contacts. The vaccine will help your body build protection from COVID-19, without having to experience the virus itself or risk spreading the illness to others.

More Information

CDC - Benefits of Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine

5. What are the side effects from the vaccine?

While side effects can occur after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, just like with any other vaccine you receive, they are typically minor and short-lived. Adverse events from the vaccine are extremely rare, and some people experience no side effects at all.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists common side effects of the vaccine, including pain, redness and swelling at the injection site along with tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever and nausea.  Side effects are normal signs that your body is building protection against the virus and should go away within a few days.  While COVID-19 vaccines may cause side effects, they cannot and do not give you COVID-19.

The CDC encourages people to contact their doctor if side effects do not go away after a few days.

6. How do I know the vaccine is safe?

Every vaccine goes through extensive clinical trials and monitoring to identify effectiveness, potential side effects, or safety concerns before it is approved for public use, and the COVID-19 vaccine is no different.

The COVID-19 vaccine is designed like many other vaccines to teach your body to fight infection. Sometimes, this can cause a spike in fever or other symptoms that signal your body is building immunity. Some recipients have reported effects of the immune response the vaccine triggers, like soreness at the injection site or fatigue.

Any potential side effects are required by law to be reported by the drug manufacturer. So far, none of the approved vaccines have reported any significant safety concerns in their trials.

The CDC also has an app called "V-Safe" that allows users to report any side effects experienced after receiving the vaccine.

Monitoring of potential side effects will be on-going as the vaccine is distributed, with mandatory reporting of any adverse effects to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) and the Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD).

More Information

• CDC - COVID-19 Vaccine Safety information
• FDA - Vaccine Development 101

7. Will the vaccine give me COVID-19? Or make me sick?

No. The COVID-19 vaccine is designed like many other vaccines to teach your body to fight infection. Sometimes, this can cause a spike in fever or other symptoms that signal your body is building immunity. Some recipients have reported effects of the immune response the vaccine triggers, like soreness at the injection site or fatigue. Any side effects from the vaccine will be reported, as required by law.

More Information

• CDC - Understanding How COVID-19 Vaccines Work

8. If I get the vaccine, am I immune to COVID-19?

Not quite. Getting your vaccine will build your immunity, which can lower your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. Your vaccine will also greatly reduce your risk of developing serious illness or death related to COVID-19.

Your greatest level of immunity will be 14 days after receiving a COVID vaccine.

Immunity can fade with time so to keep your immunity level high, stay up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines and boosters.  Everyone 6 months and older is eligible for one updated bivalent COVID-19 booster 2 months after your last COVID-19 vaccine or any previous booster.  Those 65 and older are eligible for a second bivalent COVID-19 booster 4 months after the first bivalent booster and those that are immunocompromised are eligible for a second bivalent COVID-19 booster 2 months after the first bivalent booster.

More Information

• CDC - Understanding How COVID-19 Vaccines Work

9. What will the vaccine cost?

The COVID-19 vaccine and booster is free and accessible to everyone. Health insurance is not required.

10. If I’ve been diagnosed with COVID-19, can I still get the vaccine?

Yes, and you should. Even if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, there is no current understanding of how long natural immunity, gained from exposure to the virus, will last from person to person. Re-infection is still possible, so everyone is encouraged to get the vaccine and booster to protect themselves from severe illness.

More Information

• CDC - Understanding How COVID-19 Vaccines Work

11. Can I get the vaccine if I have COVID or have had another vaccine recently?

Yes. The CDC has advised that you can receive your COVID-19 vaccine even if you have received another vaccine recently. You can even receive other necessary vaccines on the same day you receive your COVID-19 vaccine, like for the flu or other diseases.

People who are actively sick with COVID-19 should wait until they have recovered and can no longer spread the virus before getting their vaccine.  Once you have recovered, it is safe to get vaccinated with any COVID-19 vaccine if you have been infected in the past.

If you were treated for COVID-19 symptoms with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma, you should wait 90 days before getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure what treatments you received or if you have more questions about getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

12. What is a booster dose?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have authorized and recommended updated bivalent COVID-19 booster shots to provide continued protection for those who have been fully vaccinated. Boosters strengthen and extend protections against COVID-19.

Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. See below for a COVID-19 booster eligibility guide.

Eligibility for a Pfizer Booster

• 5 years or older and it has been at least two months since your last COVID-19 shot, either the last dose in your initial series or an previous booster shot. 

Eligibility for a Moderna Booster

• 6 years or older and it has been at least two months since your last COVID-19 shot, either the last dose in your initial series or an previous booster shot. 
• 6 months to 5 years and it has been at least two months since completing the initial Moderna COVID-19 vaccine series.

Eligibility for a Novavax Booster

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have authorized and recommended a monovalent Novavax COVID-19 booster in certain cases.
• 18 years or older and it has been at least six months since completion of a primary series COVID-19 vaccine and have not received any previous boosters. 
• Unable to receive an mRNA bivalent COVID-19 booster due to medical reasons or lack of availability. 

13. Do I need to have an appointment to get a vaccine?

No, vaccines and boosters are available on a walk-in basis only during the following times at the New Hanover County Health & Human Services Clinic:

• Monday - 8 am to 5 pm
• Tuesday - 8 am to 6 pm
• Wednesday - 8 am to 5 pm
• Thursday - 8 am to 5 pm
• Friday - 8 am to 5 pm

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Customer Online Access Services Tool (COAST) - Building Safety

Show All Answers

1. Can I search an address to verify permit status?

Permits issued for an address can be found by using the search feature in COAST. Please note, you do not have to be registered or logged in to use this feature.

2. Do I need to create a new account for COAST?

Yes, COAST is a completely separate system from the county’s previous development services software, so all customers will need to create a new profile and username in COAST. For instructions for creating a COAST account view the applicable YouTube video under COAST Help Videos.

3. How do I request an inspection using COAST?

A detailed video on how to request an inspection in COAST can be found on the Customer Online Application & Services Tool (COAST) Page under the COAST Help Videos.

4. How do I submit a permit online using COAST?

A detailed video tutorial for submitting a permit in COAST can be found on the Customer Online Application & Services Tool (COAST) Page under the COAST Help Videos.

5. Is training available for COAST?

Beginning June 1, Building Safety staff will provide one-on-one customized training on the various contact types used for COAST accounts. The customized one-hour training will help customers set their preferred contact types, manage their accounts, and better understand their COAST accounts and the access they have. The training is available to all customers by emailing New Hanover County Building Safety or calling them at 910-798-7308.

A Building Safety representative will coordinate a training time with you, which will be offered during the county’s business hours.

6. Who do I contact for help?

For help accessing or using COAST, contact the New Hanover County Building Safety Department.

230 Government Center Drive
Suite 170
Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone: 910-798-7308
Email New Hanover County Building Safety
Building Safety Page

Hours
Monday through Friday
8 am to 5 pm

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Customer Online Access Services Tool (COAST) - Engineering

Show All Answers

1. Does New Hanover County issue Land Disturbance Permits in the City Of Wilmington?

Yes, unless it is a city or county-owned project.

New Hanover County cannot issue permits to entities who have powers of eminent domain (the right to condemn property), or to projects that use local, state, or federal funds. These projects are permitted through the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). They can be reached at 910-796-7215.

2. How do I contact New Hanover County Engineering?

230 Government Center Drive
Suite 160
Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone: 910-798-7139
Fax: 910-798-7051
Engineering Page

Hours
Monday through Friday
8 am to 5 pm

3. How long is a Land Disturbance Permit valid?

A Land Disturbance Permit is valid while the site is active or for a period of one year if no land-disturbing activity is undertaken.

4. How long is a Stormwater Permit valid?

A Stormwater Permit, issued by New Hanover County, does not expire.

5. How much is a Land Disturbance Permit?

Residential Subdivision

• Review Fee: $200 paid at the time of application.
• Land Disturbance Fee: $300 per acre disturbed, paid at the time of plat recordation.
• Modifications: $200.
• Transfer of Ownership: $200.

All lots must be within the limits of disturbance and have erosion control measures.

Commercial Development

• Review Fee: $200, paid at the time of application.
• Land Disturbance Fee: $300 per acre disturbed, paid at the time of Certificate of Occupancy.
• Modifications: $200.
• Transfer of Ownership: $200.

Other

• Review Fee: $200, paid at the time of application.
• Land Disturbance Fee: $300 per acre disturbed, paid at time of application.
• Modifications: $200
• Transfer of Ownership: $200

6. When is a Land Disturbance Permit required?

A Land Disturbance Permit is required when:

• More than one acre is to be disturbed.
• A permit has previously been issued on the property or project and additional land disturbance activities are planned.
• A parcel or project is less than one acre but is part of a larger project (that is, a common plan of development).

7. When is a Stormwater Permit required?

A Stormwater Permit is required when:

• There will be an accumulation of 10,000 square feet or more of impervious surface area on a parcel.
• A site with an existing Stormwater Permit is to be redeveloped or expanded.

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Customer Online Access Services Tool (COAST) - Environmental Health

Show All Answers

1. Can I get my new well tested by a private company to expedite getting a CO (Certificate of Occupancy) and moving into my new home?

Yes, provided it is a laboratory certified to perform and report the results of a bacterial examination of water. Also, trained laboratory personnel must actually go out to the home site, collect the sample for analysis and report laboratory test results as negative for bacterial contamination. While a CO can be released before results are known, Public Health will also collect samples and send them to the State Laboratory of Public Health for analysis of nitrates and inorganic constituents. Because high levels of nitrates can pose significant health risks for certain populations, it is good practice to wait for these results before using well water to make food or formula for infants and children.

2. Do I have to completely clear my lot of trees and undergrowth for Public Health to issue a septic system permit?

No, however, an Environmental Health Specialist must have access and clearance enough to determine (be able to see) the location of property lines, and the proposed structure(s) and driveway in relation to property lines.

3. Do I have to get a permit for an irrigation well?

You are not required to get a permit to construct an irrigation well for single-family residential use, however, state regulations require that all wells be located and constructed so as to protect our groundwater resources.

4. Helpful Websites for Septic Systems

• North Carolina On-site Wastewater Contractor Inspector Certification Board
• Water Pollution Control System Operators Certification Commission
• North Carolina Board of Licensed Soil Scientists
• North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services

5. How do I contact New Hanover County Environmental Health?

230 Government Center Drive
Suite 140
Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone: 910-798-6667
Fax: 910-798-7815
Environmental Health Page

Hours
Monday through Friday
7:30 am to 4:30 pm

6. I need to ask a question about making a change in the plans Public Health released for construction of a swimming pool that will eventually be operated by a Home Owners Association; who do I contact?

Environmental Health Specialists are normally available in the office between 7:30 to 9 am and 4 to 4:30 pm.

7. Maintenance of Septic Systems

• Septic System Owner’s Guide
• Septic Systems and Their Maintenance
• Why Do Septic Systems Fail?
• Don’t Flush It - Door Hanger (PDF)

8. Private Water Supply Wells: Laws and Rules

• Session Law 2006-202 (PDF)
• Variance Request Form for 2C .0100 Well Construction Standards (PDF)
• Variance to Setbacks from Sewer Laterals - Rule 15A North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC) 02C .0107 (PDF)
• Section .0300 - Permitting and Inspection of Private Drinking Water Wells (PDF)
• Section .3800 - Private Drinking Water Well Sampling Rules (PDF)

9. Septic Systems: Laws and Rules

• Section .1900 - Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (PDF)

10. When do septic system permits expire?

This is a two-step process because often before buying property, individuals want to ascertain that construction and use of a septic system can be permitted on the property. First, an application is made to Public Health to conduct a site/soil evaluation of the property with at least some general idea of what the buyer or property owner plans to construct. If something other than a single-family residence is proposed, then Public Health will need to know more details in order to estimate the daily amount of wastewater a septic system must have the capacity to support. After analysis of the available space and soil characteristics, a general determination can be made with this information as to whether or not an Improvement Permit (1st step) can be issued specifically to this parcel of land. The second step, securing an Authorization to Construct can proceed when the owner can provide a detailed site plan and specifics as to how the proposed structure(s) will be used. Normally, an Improvement Permit and Construction Authorization specific to a parcel of land states the expiration as five years from the date of issue.

11. Why do I have to wait for Public Health to review my restaurant kitchen plans and menu before I can get a building permit?

Environmental Health Specialists who have many years of experience working with food safety regulations are assigned the task of reviewing restaurant kitchen plans before the project is released for the issue of building permits. The reason: We can better help business owners set themselves up for success if we work together on paper ahead of brick and mortar activities.

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Customer Online Access Services Tool (COAST) - General

Show All Answers

1. How do I view plans using Mac and Safari?

View our Download Instructions (PDF) document for a step-by-step answer.

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Customer Online Access Services Tool (COAST) - Planning & Land Use

Show All Answers

1. How do I contact New Hanover County Planning and Land Use?

230 Government Center Drive
Suite 110
Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone: 910-798-7165
Fax: 910-798-7053
Planning and Land Use Page

Hours
Monday through Friday
8 am to 5 pm

2. Why do certain applications ask me in to upload my plans twice?

One of the many benefits of applying through COAST is the capability of having plans reviewed digitally (eReview). Plans submitted in the “Files for Review” step are automatically set up for eReview, while plans submitted in the “Supporting Docs” step are not. Please note that the eReview and ”Files for Review” step is optional and can be skipped by the applicant by moving forward to the next submittal step.

3. What is eReview?

eReview is a digital, paperless review of plans. eReview allows for the plan reviewers to add comments and mark-ups directly to the digital plan files. eReview also facilitates many reviews by allowing multiple agencies to review and mark up the same digital plan file. After the review, applicants are able to view the marked-up plans on COAST.

4. What is the “Supplemental Form” required for my application and where is it located?

Most development applications processed by the New Hanover County (NHC) Department of Planning and Land Use ask the applicant to fill out a supplemental application form specific to the requested application type. These supplemental forms help ensure an efficient review process by providing relevant information about the request. The supplemental forms for specific application types can be found online at the COAST’s Help Page or on the NHC Department of Planning and Land Use website.

5. When submitting an application, I am having difficulties entering the address of the subject property. Is there another way to add the location of a property when applying for an application?

Yes! The location of a property can also be entered by adding the Parcel ID number. After selecting the “Add Location” link, simply click “Parcel” to be able to enter the Parcel ID number.

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Diversity & Equity

Show All Answers

1. Do you offer Diversity and Equity training?

The Office of Diversity and Equity handles Diversity and Equity training upon request for New Hanover County Departments and Small businesses.

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Emergency Management - Access & Functional Needs Registry

Show All Answers

1. How do I sign up for the Access & Functional Needs Registry, and how will my information be used?

There are two ways you can sign up for the registry:

1. Save the Access & Functional Needs Registry form below to your computer:
   • Access & Functional Needs Registry Form - English (PDF)
   • Formulario de Registro de Necesidades Accesible y Funcionales - Español (PDF)
   • After completing the Access & Functional Needs Registry form, drop it off or mail it to:
     
     New Hanover County Emergency Management
     attn: Bill MacKay
     230 Government Center Drive, Suite 115
     Wilmington, NC 28403
2. To register online:
   • View an online application to register for the Access & Functional Needs Registry.
   • Registrarse por computadora para el Registro de Necesidades Accesible y Funcionales.

If you have any questions about the Access & Functional Needs Registry, or need to update your information in the registry, call 910-798-6900.

How is the Access & Functional Needs Registry information used?

• Signing up for the Access & Functional Needs Registry is completely voluntary. Information submitted is strictly confidential and will only be used in the event of an emergency.
• 36 to 72 hours before an emergency situation is expected to affect our area, trained volunteers will call each person on the Access & Functional Needs Registry. The volunteer will review your Personal Disaster Plan with you, and will notify local officials if you are in need of additional assistance.
• Learn more in the Access & Functional Needs Registry Brochure (PDF). /DocumentCenter/View/255/Oxygen-Preparedness-Brochure-PDF

2. Access & Functional Needs Task Force

The Access & Functional Needs Task Force is a group of health and adult service professionals who volunteer to assist individuals who may need extra help during emergency situations. Within the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), this group is referred to as the Individual Care Coordination Center (IC-3). The Access & Functional Needs Task Force:

• Holds frequent meetings throughout the year to refine emergency preparedness plans and address any problems that may occur.
• Evaluated resources and services available for individuals who may need additional assistance during an emergency due to physical, medical, or functional limitations.
• Works with adult services agencies, home health nurses, and oxygen providers to help residents develop a disaster plan specific to their needs.

If you would like to participate on this non-appointed Task Force, please contact Bill MacKay or call 910-798-6900.

3. Access & Functional Needs Registry Volunteers

The Access & Functional Needs Registry database is maintained by New Hanover County Emergency Management.  There are volunteer opportunities available to support this program.  Visit our Volunteer page for information on how to join the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) volunteers to support the Access & Functional Needs Registry.  You can also call the Emergency Management office at 910-798-6900 or email Bill MacKay for more information. 

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Engineering

Show All Answers

1. Where can I report a drainage issue?

Drainage issues should be reported to Stormwater Services by phone at 910-798-7077.

2. Where can I report a sediment and erosion control issue?

Sediment and erosion control issues should be reported to Beth Wetherill by email, or by phone at 910-798-7432.

3. When is a Land Disturbing Permit required?

A Land Disturbing Permit is required when:

• More than one acre is to be disturbed
• A permit has previously been issued on the property or project and additional land disturbance activities are planned
• A parcel or project is less than one acre but is part of a larger project (i.e. common plan of development)

4. What is the purpose of a Land Disturbing Permit?

A Land Disturbing Permit provides protective measures to vulnerable areas in developments against accelerated (man-made) erosion and sedimentation that damages adjoining properties, streams, and other water resources of the state.

5. Does the Engineering Department issue Land Disturbing Permits in the City of Wilmington?

Yes, unless it is a city or county-owned project.

New Hanover County is not allowed to issue permits to entities who have powers of eminent domain (the right to condemn property), or to projects that use local, state, or federal funds. These projects are permitted through the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). They can be reached at 910-796-7215.

6. Where can I obtain a Land Disturbing Permit?

A Land Disturbing Permit can be obtained from New Hanover County Engineering. Please complete the Application for a Permit for a Land Disturbing Activity (PDF) and submit it via email to Beth Wetherill.

7. What is the timeline to obtain a Land Disturbing Permit?

A permit application for land disturbing activity may take up to 30 calendar days to review upon receipt of a complete application package. All plans and calculations submitted will be reviewed prior to either issuing a permit or issuing a request for additional information. Additional reviews will be completed within 15 calendar days.

8. How much is a Land Disturbing Permit?

Residential Subdivision

• Review Fee: $200 paid at time of application, includes initial and second review
• Land Disturbance Fee: $150 per lot, paid at the time of plat recordation
• Subsequent Reviews: $200 each, for each review after the second review
• Modifications: $200
• Name Change: $200
• Transfer of Ownership: $200

All lots must be in the limits of disturbance and have erosion control measures.

Commercial Development

• Review Fee: $200, paid at time of application, includes initial and second review
• Land Disturbance Fee: $400 per acre disturbed, paid at the time of Certificate of Occupancy
• Subsequent Reviews: $200 each for each review after the second review
• Modifications: $200
• Name Change: $200
• Transfer of Ownership: $200

Other

• Review Fee: $200, paid at the time of application, includes initial and second review
• Land Disturbance Fee: $400 per acre disturbed, paid at time of application
• Subsequent Reviews: $200 each, for each review after the second review
• Modifications: $200
• Name Change: $200
• Transfer of Ownership: $200

9. How long is a Land Disturbing Permit valid?

A Land Disturbing Permit is valid while the site is active or for a period of one year if no land disturbing activity is undertaken. For more information, please contact Beth Wetherill by email, or by phone at 910-798-7432.

10. What are the consequences for failure to obtain a Land Disturbing Permit?

Failure to obtain a Land Disturbing Permit may result in $5,000 per day fines and / or criminal penalties.

11. When is a Stormwater Permit required?

A Stormwater Permit is required when:

• There will be an accumulation of 10,000 square feet or more of impervious surface area on a parcel
• A site with an existing Stormwater Permit is to be redeveloped or expanded

12. Does the Engineering Department issue Stormwater Permits in the City of Wilmington?

No, the county does not issue Stormwater Permits within the city limits. Please contact the City of Wilmington at 910-341-5856.

13. Does the county issue state Stormwater Permits?

No, the county issues an Authorization to Construct (ATC) Permit based on a county Stormwater Permit for water quantity. Development within New Hanover County may also require a state Stormwater Permit for water quality.

14. Does New Hanover County issue Wetlands Permits?

No, wetlands permitting is handled by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) or the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).

15. Where is the New Hanover County Engineering Department located?

The Engineering Department is located in the Development Services Center, Suite 160 within the New Hanover County Government Center located at 230 Government Center Drive.

Enter the building through the south entrance located closest to Home Depot and go through the automatic glass doors to your right. For deliveries, please visit the main desk or ask for an Engineering representative to meet you at the entrance to the building.

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Engineering - Stormwater Services Fee Questions

Show All Answers

1. How is the fee billed?

The Stormwater Services fee is billed as a separate line item on New Hanover County tax bills for property owners in the unincorporated county (tax bills are mailed in August each year). For properties such as undeveloped land, boat slips and individual condominiums, a Stormwater Services fee of $0 will appear on the tax bill.

All fees collected as part of the program will go directly to funding stormwater maintenance and improvement projects.

2. Are there discounts available?

If a property has a county stormwater permit, a discount of 31% is applied to the fee for both residential and non-residential properties. This discount is automatically calculated and applied to the fee because of the benefit to the overall county stormwater system provided by maintaining the permitted system.

3. What properties aren’t charged a fee?

Properties within the unincorporated area that have not been developed are not charged a fee.

Properties within the City of Wilmington or the beach towns are not charged a fee through the county.

4. What will the rate be next year?

The county anticipates the rate for an ERU to be $5.65 per month for the next fiscal year that begins on July 1, 2023. 

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Environmental Health - Beekeepers

Show All Answers

1. Why does New Hanover County Mosquito Control Care about bees?

Bees are responsible for maintaining natural plant communities and ensuring the production of seeds in most flowering plants. Without bees transferring pollen from one flower to another for fertilization, crops and plants would not be able to grow or bear fruit. New Hanover County Mosquito Control understands the vital role that bees play in our ecosystem and is happy to work with beekeepers to help protect their hives.

2. What if I have a concern about NHC Mosquito Control spraying near my beehives?

NHC Mosquito Control takes protecting beehives very seriously and works with local beekeepers to address concerns about mosquito spraying in their area. Beekeepers may submit a Spray Exclusion Form (PDF) to request a "no-spray" buffer zone of approximately 300 feet around their property. When arriving at the "no-spray" zone, Mosquito Control will turn off the truck-mounted sprayers and will not turn them back on until the property has been passed. Don't be alarmed if you still hear the motor running while the spray is off.

NHC Mosquito Control may also change spray routes to accommodate "no-spray" areas. Typically, mosquito spraying takes place in the evening hours when bees have returned to their hives. However, there may be some situations when bees are still foraging in the target area when spraying begins. If this happens, Mosquito Control will make an effort to plan spray routes with "no-spray" zones at the end of the route to ensure bees are in their hives by the time the truck arrives at their location.

3. What happens to the bees when they forage the next day?

The spray used by NHC Mosquito Control is not expected to have any residual effects that would affect bee foraging the following day. The chemicals used for mosquito spraying are applied using ultra-low volume (ULV) methods, which translates to very small quantities of chemicals used per acre. The small spray droplets break down with UV exposure, degrade rapidly, and are only effective in targeting mosquitoes while the droplets remain airborne.

Additionally, NHC Mosquito Control only sprays on roadways, decreasing the total area where the spray reaches and limiting any residual effects.

4. What can beekeepers do to protect their beehives?

Register your beehives with Beecheck. This will give us an email alert that let us know the location of the hives.

Submit a Spray Exclusion Form (PDF) and notify Mosquito Control of the beehives on your property. If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at 910-798-6667. We are glad to help you protect your bees.

Additionally, the local Beekeepers Association can provide information on safe methods for protecting beehives.

5. What are some other resources for beekeepers?

• Colony Collapse Disorder
• Fieldwatch – Supports communication, collaboration, and cooperation between crop growers, beekeepers, and pesticide applicators.
• NC Apiary Services
• NC Beekeeper Association
• NC Cooperative Extension
• NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
• New Hanover County Beekeeper Association

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Environmental Health - Mosquito Control

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1. Why is spraying necessary and how are spray areas determined?

It is not possible to eliminate all breeding sites and prevent the natural migration of mosquitoes, therefore ultra-low volume (ULV) spraying is sometimes necessary to keep populations under control and prevent the potential diseases transmitted through mosquito bites.

Mosquito Control staff determine where to spray based on mosquito species and counts, and other data collected from mosquito light traps.

2. Is mosquito spray harmful to people or pets?

NHC Mosquito Control uses Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered Perm-X 4-4 for spraying. The pesticide passed rigorous safety tests and is not harmful to human health or the environment when used according to the label (PDF).

3. Where can I learn more about pesticides and their health effects?

Specific questions concerning pesticides can be directed to the EPA, the agency responsible for the registration of pesticides.

Additionally, the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) provides information about the impact of pesticide use on human health. The NPIC can also be reached at 800-858-7378.

Additional Information

Review of Central Life Sciences Mosquito Control Product Containers for Fluorination in PFAS Investigation, February 5, 2021 (PDF)

4. Which mosquito repellents work best?

The CDC recommends using repellants that contain active ingredients registered with the EPA. EPA registration means that the EPA does not expect the product to cause adverse effects to human health or the environment when used according to the label.

Of the products registered with the EPA, those containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and 2-undecanone products provide longer-lasting protection.

Products containing all-natural ingredients, such as peppermint, thyme, eucalyptus, and garlic, do not require EPA registration and have not been evaluated by the EPA for their effectiveness as mosquito repellents.

5. What can I do to prevent mosquitoes in my area?

Mosquitoes need water to complete their life cycle, so it is important to eliminate all sources of standing water including coolers, trash bins, toys, rain gutters and pipes, plant saucers, tarps, covered and uncovered boats, and bird baths. Any source of standing water, even as small as a bottle cap, can produce hundreds of mosquitoes.

Thinning shrubs and cutting down tall grass and weeds will also help reduce mosquitoes as they inhabit cool, shady areas to escape hot temperatures that can be deadly to mosquitoes.

• Asian Tiger Mosquito Brochure (PDF)
• Asian Tiger Mosquito Brochure en Español (PDF)

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Environmental Health - Smoking & Vaping

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1. Where is smoking and vaping prohibited?

2. Does this ordinance apply to beaches?

Yes, this ordinance applies to beach areas and property under the control of a Town/Municipality. Property owned, leased, or maintained by the State of North Carolina, does not apply.

3. Does this ordinance include all forms of tobacco, including dip?

No, smokeless dip, snuff, etc. is not defined and not addressed in this ordinance. The new ordinance addresses vaping and traditional cigarette smoking to protect residents from unwanted inhalation of second hand smoke and e-cigarette vapors.

4. Does this apply to my personal property?

No, this ordinance does not apply to a personal residence, personal vehicles or private property.

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Finance - Budget

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1. When are Non-County Agency applications open?

Non-County Agency applications are usually opened in early November for the following fiscal year.

2. When does a new budget take effect?

The new Budget cycle Starts officially on July 1st and runs thru June 30th of the following year.

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Finance - Capital Projects

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1. How Are Capital Improvement Projects Prioritized?

Each January, the CIP Committee updates the five-year capital plan and offers a recommendation to the County Manager on which projects to include in the annual budget. The County Manager includes capital projects in his recommended budget to the Board of County Commissioners and the board adopts the annual budget and capital projects together, typically in June of each year.

The CIP Committee reviews department requests for capital projects, including facilities, parks, sidewalks, drainage, or other large-scale projects. Capital projects typically cost $100,000 or more and require more than a year to complete. In reviewing and developing a recommendation for the County Manager, the CIP committee considers:

• A capital project’s alignment with the county’s strategic plan
• The impact the project will have on the community
• The effect the project will have on services
• The cost and resources available to fund the project

More information about current capital improvement projects can be found in the Fiscal Year 2022 to 2026 Capital Improvement Plan (PDF).

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Fire Rescue - Customer Online Access Services Tool (COAST)

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1. Are all fire alarm systems required to be UL Certified?

No, only fire alarm systems that monitor a fire sprinkler or other automatic fire extinguishing system are required to be Underwriters' Laboratories (UL) Certified. A UL certificate must be displayed adjacent to the Fire Alarm Control Panel.

2. Are key boxes or Knox Boxes required on all commercial businesses?

Knox boxes are required to be installed at the main entrance and any other location as required by the Fire Code Official when the building has a fire alarm system and automatic fire sprinkler system. Knox boxes can be utilized for other commercial buildings, contact the Fire Code Official for more information.

3a. How do I order a Knox box? 

Orders are placed online using the building address on Knox Box's website.

3. How do I contact New Hanover Fire Rescue?

230 Government Center Drive
Suite 130
Wilmington, NC 28403
Non-emergency phone: 910-798-7420
Fax: 910-798-7052
Fire Rescue Page

Hours
Monday through Friday
8 am to 5 pm

4. When do I need a fire protection permit?

A construction-related fire protection permit is required for all of the following: 

• [A] 105.7 Required construction permits. The fire code official is authorized to issue construction permits for work as set forth in Sections 105.7.1 through 105.7.18. See the North Carolina Administrative Code and Policies and applicable North Carolina General Statutes for general information concerning construction permits.
• [A] 105.7.1 Automatic fire-extinguishing systems. A construction permit is required for installation of or modification to an automatic fire-extinguishing system. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.
• [A] 105.7.2 Battery systems. A permit is required to install stationary storage battery systems having a liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons (189 L).
• [A] 105.7.3 Compressed gases. Where the compressed gases in use or storage exceed the amounts listed in Table 105.6.9, a construction permit is required to install, repair damage to, abandon, remove, place temporarily out of service, or close or substantially modify a compressed gas system. Exception: Routine maintenance.
• [A] 105.7.4 Cryogenic fluids. A construction permit is required for installation of or alteration to outdoor stationary cryogenic fluid storage systems where the system capacity exceeds the amounts listed in Table 105.6.11. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be an alteration and does not require a construction permit.
• [A] 105.7.5 Emergency responder radio coverage system. A construction permit is required for installation of or modification to emergency responder radio coverage systems and related equipment. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a construction permit.
• [A] 105.7.6 Fire alarm and detection systems and related equipment. A construction permit is required for installation of or modification to fire alarm and detection systems and related equipment. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a construction permit.
• [A] 105.7.7 Fire pumps and related equipment. A construction permit is required for installation of or modification to fire pumps and related fuel tanks, jockey pumps, controllers and generators. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a construction permit.
• [A] 105.7.8 Flammable and combustible liquids. A construction permit is required:

1. To install, repair or modify a pipeline for the transportation of flammable or combustible liquids.
2. To install, construct or alter tank vehicles, equipment, tanks, plants, terminals, wells, fuel-dispensing stations, refineries, distilleries and similar facilities where flammable and combustible liquids are produced, processed, transported, stored, dispensed or used. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered an installation, construction or alteration and does not require a permit.
3. To install, alter, remove, abandon or otherwise dispose of a flammable or combustible liquid tank.

• [A] 105.7.9 Gates and barricades across fire apparatus access roads. A construction permit is required for the installation of or modification to a gate or barricade across a fire apparatus access road.
• [A] 105.7.10 Hazardous materials. A construction permit is required to install, repair damage to, abandon, remove, place temporarily out of service, or close or substantially modify a storage facility or other area regulated by Chapter 50 where the hazardous materials in use or storage exceed the amounts listed in Table 105.6.21. Exception: Routine maintenance.
• [A] 105.7.11 Industrial ovens. A construction permit is required for installation of industrial ovens covered by Chapter 30. Exception: Routine maintenance.
• [A] 105.7.12 LP-gas. A construction permit for installation of or modification to an LP-gas system may be required and approved by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.
• [A] 105.7.13 Private fire hydrants. A construction permit is required for the installation or modification of private fire hydrants. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.
• [A] 105.7.14 Smoke control or smoke exhaust systems. Construction permits are required for installation of or alteration to smoke control or smoke exhaust systems. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be an alteration and does not require a permit.
• [A] 105.7.15 Solar photovoltaic power systems. A construction permit is required to install or modify solar photovoltaic power systems. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.
• [A] 105.7.16 Spraying or dipping. A construction permit is required to install or modify a spray room, dip tank or booth. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.
• [A] 105.7.17 Standpipe systems. A construction permit is required for the installation, modification or removal from service of a standpipe system. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.
• [A] 105.7.18 Temporary membrane structures and tents. A construction permit is required to erect an air-supported temporary membrane structure, a temporary stage canopy or a tent having an area in excess of 800 square feet (74 m2). Exceptions:
  1. Tents used exclusively for recreational camping purposes.
  2. Funeral tents and curtains, or extensions attached thereto, when used for funeral services.
  3. Tents and awnings open on all sides, which comply with all of the following:
     • 3.1. Individual tents shall have a maximum size of 1800 square feet (167 m2).
     • 3.2. The aggregate area of multiple tents placed side by side without a fire break clearance of not less than 12 feet (3658mm) shall not exceed 1800 square feet (167 m2) total.
     • 3.3. A minimum clearance of 12 feet (3658 mm) to structures and other tents shall be maintained.

(Taken from the 2018 North Carolina Fire Code)

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Fire Rescue - Insurance Rating

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1. What is the public protection class (PPC) new rating for New Hanover County Fire Rescue district?

In the Northern and the Southern district the PPC will be a 2.

2. When will the new rating take effect?

The new rating will take effect August 1, 2021.

3. What should property owners do about the new ratings?

We would strongly encourage you to contact your insurance agent to inquire of any potential savings.

The NC Department of Insurance Office of the State Fire Marshal has already advised the NC Rate Bureau, which is in charge of insurance rates on dwellings, of this rate change; but if you need any documentation to provide to your insurance provider, the fire district rating letters are below:

• Northern Fire District Letter (PDF)
• Southern Fire District Letter (PDF)

4. My insurance company won’t recognize the new rating. What can I do?

You may contact the North Carolina Department of Insurance at 800-546-5664 or 919-807-6750.

5. What prompted this change?

The improved ratings come after a routine inspection was conducted in February 2021 of New Hanover County Fire Rescue by officials with the Department of Insurance Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM), as part of a requirement of the North Carolina Response Rating System (NCRRS). Among other things, the routine inspections look for proper staffing levels, sufficient equipment, proper maintenance of equipment, communications capabilities, and availability of a water source.

The last time the county received a new rating was after its 2012 inspection, when NHCFR received a Class 4 rating.

6. I didn’t locate the answer I was looking for. Where can I find additional information?

You may call New Hanover County Fire Rescue at 910-798-7420.

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Health Department - Appointments

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1. Do I need an appointment?

Appointments are not needed for immunizations (including flu vaccinations), tuberculin (TB) skin tests (Not on Thursday) or screening forms (for documentation purposes - work, school, etc.), and blood lead level readings. All other appointments are based upon appointment. To schedule your appointment please call 910-798-3500 option 6.

2. How do I make an appointment?

Please call 910-798-3500 option 6 to make an appointment.

For a list of walk-in services please see the "Do I need an appointment?" portion of this FAQ.

For WIC services please call 910-798-6514.

3. What are Public Health's hours? Are there night and weekend hours?

The general clinic (immunizations/family planning/sexually transmitted disease) is open from 8 am to 4:30 pm. Monday-Friday; however, please be aware that specific programs may have individual hours.

The Health Department is open late until 6 pm every Tuesday evening for scheduled appointments and walk-in immunizations as well as tuberculin (TB) skin tests. At this time, we do not offer weekend hours.

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Health Department - Clinical Services

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1. Can I come to Public Health if I am sick (for primary care)?

At this time, Public Health does not provide primary care services. This includes visits for illnesses such as the common cold and flu or for the maintenance of chronic issues such as hypertension and pain management. Please see the "Health Department and the Community" portion of this FAQ or our Community Resource page for information on where underinsured or uninsured individuals can receive these services.

2. Does Public Health administer travel vaccines?

The Health Department offers some travel vaccines, but does not have a travel clinic at this time. Most travel vaccines are not covered by insurance, so payment will be required on the date of service. 

3. Does Public Health provide any no cost services?

Normal routine childhood immunizations and certain adult immunizations (TD boosters and others if criteria are met) are provided by the State Immunization Program and may be at no cost to those eligible. Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases and tuberculosis (if contact/suspect/case) are also provided at no cost, but insurance can be billed for those services. Patients may have blood lead levels for children up to the age of 5 as well as repeat newborn screenings such as sickle cell screening may be drawn at no charge.

4. Does Public Health provide dental care?

At this time, Public Health provides dental services through our Mobile Dental Unit only to children ages 3 to 18 who are uninsured, receive Medicaid or Health Choice insurance, are in need of lost cost dental care, or have issues getting to and from dental appointments. For more information on this service please call 910-512-3113 or visit our Children and School Services page.

If you do not meet the above criteria and require dental care, please visit our Community Resource page for a list of local low-cost dental providers.

5. What services can I receive at Public Health?

The New Hanover County Public Health offers a wide variety of services such as Family Planning and Sexually Transmitted Disease clinics, childhood and adult Immunizations, Travel Vaccinations, WIC Services, Limited Physicals, as well as Male Health and Vasectomy service.

6. When can I come for a Tuberculin (TB) skin test?

TB skin testing is offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 am to 4 pm (Not available on Thursdays) with no appointment necessary. Services are provided through the lunch hours and on Tuesdays until 5:30 pm. Please be prepared to return for a reading in 48 to 72 hours (2 to 3 days).

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Health Department - Cost

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1. Does my income matter at Public Health?

Family Planning, Well Child Physicals, Nutrition Counseling (non-WIC, non-Maternal Health), Children's Dental Services, and Psycho-social Counseling fees are assessed on a sliding fee scale (a calculated percentage of the total cost owed ranging from 0% to 100%) based on the number living in the household and household income (regardless of relationship). Therefore, proof of income is required at time of registration.

2. How much does Public Health charge for vaccines?

Normal routine childhood immunizations and certain adult immunizations (TD boosters and others if criteria are met) are provided by the State Immunization Program and may be free of charge for those eligible. Patients receiving private stock vaccines (insured patients or those not meeting the criteria for state vaccines) are charged a flat rate for vaccinations.

3. How much will my visit to Public Health cost?

Family Planning, Well Child Physicals, Nutrition Counseling (non-WIC, non-Maternal Health), and Psycho-social Counseling fees are assessed on a sliding fee scale based on the number living in the household and household income. Testing for sexually transmitted diseases is provided free of charge.

4. What health services cannot be billed to Medicaid?

Medicaid will not cover our flat fee services, but some services are free depending upon eligibility. Flat fee services are private stock vaccines (with the exception of Menactra meningitis vaccine), non-immunization injections (allergy, B12, etc.) and tuberculin (TB) skin testing or screening form (for documentation purposes - work, school, etc.).

5. What types of insurance does Public Health accept?

We currently accept, and are in network with, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Healthcare, Medicaid, Medicaid Health Choice, Medicare Part B and D, Tricare (Champus) and United Healthcare.

Please note, as each individual insurance plan varies, we cannot guarantee that because a claim is submitted a service will be covered (either fully or in part). Should a service rendered not be covered by your insurance provider, there may be a cost to you. Please check with your insurance provider with any questions about what your plan covers prior to your visit.

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Health Department - Environmental Health & Vector Control

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1. What can I do to eliminate mosquitoes around my home and garden?

Containers or debris that hold even small amounts of water provide good sites for mosquitoes to reproduce in very large numbers.  Rid your property of as many of these items as possible and encourage your neighbors to do the same.  Clean gutters.  Repair leaky outdoor faucets and irrigation systems.  Clean and add fresh water to bird baths, pet bowls and flower pot saucers at least twice weekly. Please visit our Vector Control for more information on controlling mosquito populations.

2. What do I need to know about septic systems?

Septic Systems Laws & Rules

• Wastewater Systems-Published Sewage Laws: NC.G.S. 130A-333-345 (PDF)
• Section.1900 - Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (PDF)

Maintenance of Septic Systems

• Septic System Owner's Guide
• Septic Systems and Their Maintenance
• Why Do Septic Systems Fail?
• Don't Flush It - Door Hanger (PDF)

Helpful Websites for Septic Systems

• North Carolina On-site Wastewater Contractor Inspector Certification Board
• Water Pollution Control System Operators Certification Commission
• North Carolina Board of Licensed Soil Scientists
• NC Department of Health and Human Services

3. What do I need to know about private water supply wells?

Private Water Supply Wells: Laws and Rules

• Session Law 2006-202 (PDF)
• Section.0300 Permitting and Inspection of Private Drinking Water Wells (PDF)
• Section.3800 - Private Drinking Water Well Sampling Rules (PDF)
• Subchapter 2C-Rules-Well Construction Standards (PDF)
• Variance (from DEQ) to Setbacks from Sewer Laterals; Rule 15A NCAC 02C.0107; Standards of Construction: Water Supply Wells (PDF)
• Variance Request Form for 2C.0100 Well Construction Standards (PDF)

Helpful Websites for Private Water Supply Wells

• State Certified Labs for Well Water Testing
• The State Laboratory of Public Health
• Well Water and Health, Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology
• Private Well Water Safety Measures and Disinfection (PDF)
• NC Department of Environmental Quality (NC DEQ)
• NC DEQ / Division of Water Resources (DWR) / Water Quality Programs
• Private Well Water Safety Measures and Disinfection (PDF)
• North Carolina Maximum Contaminant Levels (PDF)
• Private Wells-Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)

4. Who does Environmental Health regulate?

Our Environmental Health division inspects, and issues permits for, restaurants, temporary food vendors (such as those as festivals), tattoo artists and body piercers, schools and child care centers, adult care facilities, public pools (and private pools on properties without county water), as well as septic and well systems. For more information on these wide ranging programs, please visit Permits and Rules.

Have an issue not listed here and live within the city limits of Wilmington? Please visit the Wilmington Code Enforcement website.

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Health Department - Food Employee Exclusions / Restrictions

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1. What is a "restriction"?

Restriction means a food employee’s activities are limited to prevent the risk of transmitting a disease that is transmissible through food. A restricted employee cannot work with exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, linens, or unwrapped single-service or single-use articles.

2. What is an "exclusion"?

Exclusion means a food employee is not permitted to work in or enter a food establishment as a food employee.

3. Who can exclude or restrict a food employee?

The PIC (Person in Charge) of an establishment has the authority to exclude or restrict a food employee from a food establishment to prevent the transmission of disease through food.

• FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

4. Who can lift the exclusion or restriction?

In many cases, the manager or PIC (Person in Charge) removes, adjusts or retains the exclusion or restriction.

• FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

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Health Department - Food Employee Responsibilities

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1. Can food employees work if their symptoms are from a non-infectious condition?

Yes, food employees can work as long as they can provide medical documentation indicating that the symptoms are from a non-infectious condition. Some non-infectious conditions include Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, some liver diseases, and symptoms commonly experienced during stages of pregnancy.

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

2. Do food employees have a responsibility to prevent foodborne illness?

Yes, food employees share the responsibility with management for preventing foodborne illness and are required to know:

• The relationship between their job responsibilities and the potential risks of foodborne illness
• How employee health is related to foodborne illness
• The need to immediately report symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, sore throat with fever, diagnosis of illness caused by a BIG 5 pathogen, exposure to a BIG 5 pathogen, or an exposed infected wound or cut on the hands or arms to their manager
• How restriction and/or exclusion from working with food prevents foodborne illness
• How proper hand hygiene and no bare hand contact with RTE (Ready to Eat) food can prevent foodborne illness

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

3. If an infected wound, cut, or burn is covered can an employee continue working?

Yes, food employees, can continue working as long as the wound, cut, or burn is properly covered with a waterproof cover like a finger cot and disposable glove, or a dry, durable, tight-fitting bandage.

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

4. What types of exposure must food employees report to management?

If a food employee is exposed to any of the following situations it must be reported:

• Ingesting or handling food that was implicated in a foodborne outbreak
• Consuming food that was prepared by someone with an illness that resulted from one of the BIG 5 pathogens
• Attending or working in a location that had a confirmed foodborne illness outbreak
• Living with someone who works or was in a location that was known to have had a foodborne illness outbreak
• Living with someone how was diagnosed with an illness that resulted from one of the BIG 5 pathogens

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

5. What hand washing steps do employees need to follow?

Clean hands and exposed portions of arms for at least 20 seconds by the following method:

1. Rinse under clean, warm running water
2. Apply soap and rub all surfaces of the hands and fingers together vigorously for at least 10 to 15 seconds
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean, warm running water
4. Thoroughly dry the hands and exposed portions of arms with single-use paper towels or a heated-air hand-drying device

6. What other precautions can a food employee take to prevent the spread of foodborne illness?

Food employees can prevent foodborne illness by:

• Not touching RTE (Ready to Eat) food with bare hands
• Washing hands frequently, especially whenever they are soiled or have touched anything that has contaminated them
• Not working when ill
• Knowing all aspects of food handling and the risk factors associated with foodborne illness
• Being aware that uncontrolled risk factors can cause consumers to have foodborne illness

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

7. What should food employees do if they are not feeling well and their skin or eyes turn yellow?

Report the symptoms to their manager and seek medical attention. The employee should not return to work until after receiving clearance from a health practitioner. If the employee is jaundice for more than 7 days, clearance from the local health department is required.

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

8. What should food employees do if they have a sore throat with fever?

Report the illness to the manager and, if possible, continue working while remaining aware that the manager could consider reassignment to a position that does not include the handling of food, food-contact equipment, utensils, or single-service articles. If the employee works in a food establishment serving a Highly Susceptible Population (HSP), such as a hospital, nursing home, assisted living facility, or a daycare center, the employee must stop working and go home until he or she obtains clearance from a health practitioner and presents it to the manager.

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

9. What should food employees do if they have an infected wound, burn or cut on their hand or arm?

Report the wound, burn or cut to the manager and properly cover it with a clean, impermeable bandage and a single-use glove (for hand wounds) before returning to work.

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

10. What should food employees do when they have symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea?

If at work:

• Stop work immediately
• Report to management
• Go home and return after at least 24 hours have passed since the vomiting or diarrhea symptoms have ended

If the symptoms occur before the employee arrives to work, he or she should:

• Notify the manager by telephone
• Do not report to work until at least 24 hours have passed after the vomiting or diarrhea symptoms have ended

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

11. When should food employees wash their hands?

They should do this immediately after engaging in activities that contaminate the hands and:

• When entering a food preparation area
• Before putting on clean, single-use gloves and between glove changes
• Before engaging in food preparation
• Before handling clean equipment and serving utensils
• When changing tasks and switching between handling raw foods and working with RTE (Ready to Eat) foods
• After handling soiled dishes, equipment, or utensils
• After touching bare human body parts
• After using the toilet
• After coughing, sneezing, blowing the nose, using tobacco, eating, or drinking
• After caring for or handling service animals or aquatic animals

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

12. Where can food employees learn more about preventing foodborne illness and following effective food safety practices?

Foodborne illness information resources:

• FDA / CFSAN
• CDC National Center for Infectious Disease

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Health Department - Food Establishment Responsibilities

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1. What is a manager's responsibility for ensuring employees are trained on reporting of symptoms & diagnosis of foodborne illness?

The manager or Person in Charge (PIC) is to make certain that food employees are trained on the subject of the:

• Causes of foodborne illness
• Relationship between the food employee's job task, personal hygiene, and foodborne illness
• Requirement for reporting
• Specific symptoms, diagnoses, and exposures that must be reported to the PIC

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

2. What is a manager's responsibility regarding informing food employees of their reporting requirements?

Management should explain to food employees the importance of reporting specific symptoms and any diagnosis or exposures to foodborne illness. Things to be reported to management include:

• Vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, sore throat with fever, or any exposed boil or open, infected wounds, burns or cuts to the hands or arms
• An illness diagnosed by a health practitioner that was caused by: Salonella Typhi or typhoid like fever, Shigella spp., Norovirus, Hepatitis A, E. coli O157:H7 or other Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.
• Past illnesses with typhoid like fever within the past 3 months, unless treated with antibiotics
• Exposure to typhoid-like fever, shigellosis, Norovirus, Hepatitis A virus, E. coli O157:H7 or other Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, or eating or serving food that was implicated in a foodborne illness outbreak or if residing with a diagnosed individual.

See Form 1-B and refer to Guide 3-C in Annex 7 of the 2009 Food Code

3. What should a manager do when a food employee has or reports an exposed or infected would that is open and/or draining on the hands or arm?

(See Decision Tree 1 and Table 1a)

Restrict any employee from working with food that has an infected skin lesion with pus, like a boil or infected wound that is not properly covered. The manager can lift the restriction once the infected area is properly covered or healed.

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

4. What should a manager do when a food employee reports symptoms of jaundice?

(See Decision Tree 1 and Table 1a)

• Have the food employee stop work immediately
• Inquire about how long the employee has been experiencing jaundice or associated symptoms of jaundice
• Have the food employee leave the food establishment if he or she has had jaundice or has been experiencing symptoms of jaundice for less than 7 days
• Report cases of jaundice to the regulatory authority and have the food employee's return to work approved by a regulatory authority

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

5. What should a manager do when a food employee reports symptoms of sore throat with fever?

(See Decision Tree 1 and Table 1a)

• Place the employee on restricted duty, that is, not working with or around food
• Allow food employees to return to work with written medical documentation from a health practitioner
• If the food employee works in a facility that services Highly Susceptible Populations (HSP), exclude the food employee from the food establishment

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

6. What should a manager do when a food employee reports symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea?

(See Decision Tree 1 and Table 1a or {if diagnosed} Table 1b)

• Ask the food employee to stop work immediately and leave the food establishment. The employee is not permitted to return until at least 24 hours after vomiting and diarrhea have ended.

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

7. What symptoms of foodborne illness should food establishments be most concerned about?

Food establishments should be most concerned about the following symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes)
• Sore throat with fever
• Infected cuts and burns with pus on hands or wrists

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

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Health Department - Foodborne Illness

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1. What are the "Big 5" foodborne pathogens?

The BIG 5 is a group of highly infectious foodborne pathogens. These BIG 5 pathogens have a low infectious dose, contaminate the gastrointestinal systems after ingestion, and are shed in feces. These pathogens shed in high numbers. A food employee infected with a BIG 5 pathogen will typically shed hundreds of thousands of pathogens in their feces that can easily be transmitted to food even when good hand washing practices are used. Consequently, the illness experienced by the consumer can be very severe. The BIG 5 include:

1. Norovirus
2. Salmonella Typhi (typhoid-like fever)
3. E. Coli O157:H7, Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga toxin-producing E Coli
4. Shigella spp. (causes shigellosis)
5. Hepatitis A virus

2. What causes foodborne illness?

Over 40 different kinds of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and molds that may occur in food can cause foodborne illness. A foodborne illness is commonly referred to as food poisoning or "stomach flu".

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Health Department - Highly Susceptible Population (HSP) Protocols

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1. What can food employees do to help prevent the spread of disease in a food establishment that serves a HSP?

Food employees should:

• Comply with meeting reporting requirements and inform their manager if they are experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice and/or sore throat with fever
• Keep hands and arms clean
• Follow proper hand washing procedures
• Maintain trimmed fingernails
• Do not wear jewelry on hands and arms except for a simple wedding band
• Use single-use gloves for one task
• Do not touch RTE (Ready to Eat) food with bare hands and minimize bare hand contact with exposed food that is not RTE
• Wear clean clothes and hair restraints
• Do not work with exposed food if experiencing persistent sneezing, coughing, or a running nose or discharge from the eyes, nose or mouth

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

2. What makes a population highly susceptible?

A population is highly susceptible to foodborne illness if it is:

• Immunocompromised
• Pre-school children
• Older adults
• Individuals who obtain food a facility that provides services such as:
  • Custodial Care
  • Health care
  • Assisted living
  • Child care center
  • Adult care center
  • Kidney dialysis center
  • Hospital
  • Nursing home
  • Nutritional center
  • Senior center

3. What should the manager of a food establishment serving a HSP do when an employee reports an exposure to foodborne illness?

Restrict the food employee and make sure that training is provided about:

• The foodborne illness and related symptoms
• Hand washing procedures
• The prevention of bare hand contact with RTE (Ready to Eat) foods
• The length of restriction and what is required to have the restriction lifted

The manager must restrict food employees exposed to:

• Norovirus - for at least 2 days (48 hours) from exposure
• Shigella spp. or E Coli O157H7 - for at least 3 days (72 hours) from exposure
• Salmonella Typhi - for at least 14 days from exposure
• Hepatitis A virus - for at least 30 days from exposure or after training has been giving about symptoms, use of bare hand contact with RTE food to avoid contamination, and proper hand washing

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

4. What should the manager of a food establishment serving HSP do to protect the HSP from exposure to viruses and harmful pathogens?

A food establishment manager should:

• Carefully follow protocols for exclusion and restriction, adjusting and reinstating food employees' work status in the establishment
• Ensure employees are properly trained in food safety as it relates to their duties and use additional safeguards as required for working in a HSP
• Reinforce employee compliance to guarantee good hygienic practices, acknowledge onset of symptoms, meet reporting requirements, and ensure no bare hand contact with RTE (Ready to Eat) food by educating food employees on the importance of following best practice
• Ensure employees have access to facilities that are well-maintained and have the necessary supplies available to follow proper hygienic practices

FDA Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook

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Health Department - Important Numbers & Links

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1. Have a general question about our billing practices or costs of services?

Please visit our Billing and Patient Services Fees pages for more information. Should your question not be answered, please contact our billing department at 910-798-6688 between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

2. Have a question about your septic or well system or the permitting of a septic or well system?

Please contact our Environmental Health division at 910-798-6667 between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

3. Have an individual billing question or concern?

Please call our billing department at 910-798-6688 between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday and Friday to speak to a billing representative.

4. Need to know when an immunization is due?

Please call our Medical Records department at 910-798-6763 from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday for information on your immunization history. Please note: the New Hanover County Health Department only has records of immunizations given by us or provided to us in an immunization history by the patient. We do not keep a general statewide registry of all immunizations given in the state of North Carolina or New Hanover County.

5. Need more information about one of our clinics or services?

Please call 910-798-3500 between 8:00 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday to speak to someone in our general clinic.

6. Need more information about Travel Immunizations?

For additional information about travel immunizations and health alerts, please visit the CDC website and Vaccines.gov

7. Need more information regarding WIC office?

Please call 910-798-3500 option #5 between 8:00 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday to speak with someone in our WIC department. For additional information on the WIC program please visit our Nutrition and WIC page, the USDA WIC site or NutritionNC.

8. Would you like to report a restaurant, food vendor, pool, school or child or adult care facility violation?

Please fill out our Online Complaint Form. Should you need assistance or would like to speak to a representative, please contact our Environmental Health division at 910-798-6667 between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday. Please note, at this time we do not accept food samples for testing.

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Health Department - Medical Records & Birth / Death Certificates

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1. Can I obtain a copy of my child's immunization record?

Legal guardians can request copies of a child's immunization record until the child has turned 18 years of age. Once a child has turned 18, they are no longer considered a minor and only he or she can request the record. Records are available, free of charge, for patients who have received immunization services at the Health Department including any prior immunization history if provided to us by the patient. To request a copy, please come to the Health and Human Services building with a photo I.D. between the hours of 8 am and 5:00 pm. Monday to Friday.

If you are not local to the area, or the immunization record is being requested by a school, physician, or another healthcare facility, please call 910-798-6763 for additional options. For more information on our medical records policies, please visit Medical Records.

2. Can I obtain a copy of my child's medical records (non-immunization records)?

Due to the sensitive nature of some of our clinics, the express signed consent of a minor is required to release any record. This is to ensure that minors can feel safe getting the care they may need. Therefore, a signed medical release must be completed at our clinic by the minor prior to releasing any records to a parent or guardian. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy please visit Medical Records or call 910-798-6763 between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

3. How can I obtain a copy of my immunization record?

Records are available, free of charge, for patients who have received immunization services at the Health Department including prior immunization information if provided by the patient to us. To request a copy, please come to the Health Department with a photo I.D. from 8 am to 5 pm. Monday to Friday.

If you are not local to the area, or the immunization record is being requested by a school, physician or other healthcare facility, please call 910-798-6763 for additional options. For more information on our medical records policies, please visit Medical Records.

4. How can I obtain a copy of my medical records (non-immunization records)?

To request a copy of your records, please come to the Health Department with a photo I.D. between the hours of 8 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday. With the exception of the tuberculin (TB) skin tests, there is a $5 fee for this service. Please note that if the records are older than 10 years they may have been purged in accordance to state purging guidelines.

If you are not local to the area please call 910-798-6763 for additional options. For more information on our medical records policies please visit Medical Records.

5. Where can I obtain a certified copy of a Birth or Death Certificate?

While Public Health does process birth and death certificates, we do not provide certified copies. These are available at the New Hanover County Register of Deeds at 320 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 and 230 Goverment Center Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403.

More information regarding birth and death certificates can be found on the Register of Deeds website.

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Health Department - New Hanover County Health & Human Services Board

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1. When and where does the Health and Human Services Board meet?

Regular meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month at 8 am at the Health and Human Services building.

2. Who may attend a Health and Human Services Board meeting?

Meetings are open to the public.

3. Who serves on the Health and Human Services Board?

The Health and Human Services Board consists of 11 members, serving 3-year terms, and includes one of each of the following: a licensed physician, dentist, nurse, pharmacist, optometrist and veterinarian, a professional engineer, and a county commissioner, as well as three individuals who are members of the general public. Please visit our Board and Committees page for a list of current Board of Health members.

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Health Department - Public Health & the Community

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1. Does Public Health offer CPR classes?

At this time, Public Health does not offer CPR classes to the general public. Please contact the Cape Fear Chapter of the American Red Cross at 910-762-5540 or visit the Red Cross website for CPR class information.

Or visit the American Heart Associations Class Connector Site to find courses near you.

2. How can I get low cost insurance for my child?

Your child may be eligible for Health Check / Health Choice. Call Social Services at 910-798-3500 or Smart Start at 910-815-3731 or visit the Department of Social Services website for more information.

3. How does New Hanover County Public Health find out about certain diseases?

According to North Carolina Communicable Disease statutes, physicians, laboratories, restaurants, and school principals or child-care facilities are required to report any suspicious or confirmed report of a communicable disease to the Health Department.

4. How do I find a resource not listed here?

Please visit our Community Resources page for a full listing of all available community resources or call 910-798-3500 for more information.

5. Where can I get a Lead Test Kit?

Any retailer such as  Lowe’s, Home Depot, Wal-Mart. You can test mini-blinds, old paint, dishes, etc. for lead paint. For more information on lead exposure, please visit the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.

6. Where can I receive low cost dental care?

Low cost dental care can be found at:

Med North Health Center
925 North 4th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: 910-343-0270

Cape Fear Clinic
1605 Doctor's Circle, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: 910-343-8736

For a full list of available low-cost primary care providers please visit our Community Resources page.

7. Where can I receive low cost primary care?

Low-cost primary care can be found at:

St Mary's Health Center
412 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: 910-763-8163

Med North Health Center
925 North 4th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: 910-343-0270

Cape Fear Clinic
1605 Doctor's Circle, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: 910-343-8736

For a full list of available low-cost primary care providers please visit our Community Resources page.

8. Who can I contact with community complaints or concerns within Wilmington city limits?

If you have a complaint or concern regarding an issue such as abandoned vehicles or structures, animals, home occupation, overgrown properties or trash and debris and the potential violation is within city limits, please contact Wilmington Code Enforcement at 910-341-3266.

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Health Department - WIC

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1. Do I qualify for WIC?

WIC is a program for infants and children up to 5 years of age, pregnant women, breastfeeding women who have had a baby in the last 12 months and women who have had a baby in the last 6 months (non-breastfeeding) who live in a household at or below WIC guidelines and have a health risk factor based on height and weight, a blood test for low iron, health history or diet history. For more information on the qualification criteria for WIC please visit our Nutrition and WIC page or call 910-798-3500 option #5.

2. How do I apply for WIC?

Call the New Hanover County WIC office at 910-798-3500 to schedule an appointment or call 1-800-FOR-BABY (367-2229) to find the WIC office closest to you. You will need to provide proof of identification, residence (where you live), and household income.

Examples of things to bring with you include, but are not limited to: a valid driver's license, Social Security Card, Work or school ID, current utility or cable bill, current rental or mortgage statement, recent pay-stubs, or a recent tax return. Your WIC staff will be able to answer questions that you may have.

3. What does WIC offer?

The WIC staff determines which foods a participant receives based on individual needs. Some examples of healthy foods include milk, juice, eggs, cheese, infant formula and cereal, peanut butter, and dries beans and peas. WIC also provides nutrition information on infant feeding, special diets, healthy pregnancies, and child growth and development.

4. What happens at a WIC visit?

At your appointment your income information will be reviewed and you will be asked questions about your health and your diet. Your height, weight, and a blood test for iron deficiency will be done; unless you bring this information from another clinic or doctor's office. A Nutritionist or Nurse will review the above information to see if you are eligible for WIC and any nutrition problems or questions you may have will be discussed. If you are eligible for the program, you will be given "checks" to take to the store to get your food.

Please visit NCDHHS Community Nutrition Services for more information.

5. What is WIC?

WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children funded by the US Department of Agriculture. Please see the USDA WIC website or our Nutrition & WIC page for additional WIC information.

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HHS - COVID 19 - Información en Español

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1. ¿Cuándo podré recibir una vacuna?

Tu Tienes La Oportunidad. Protégete. (PDF)

Todas las personas de 6 meses o más ahora son elegibles para la vacuna contra el COVID-19.

Un par de cosas a tener en cuenta:

Las vacunas son gratuitas para todos (con o sin Seguro medico).

No necesitas identificación. Todos se pueden vacunar sin importar su estatus migratorio. Vacunarte no afectará tu estatus migratorio.

Si usted recibe la vacuna de Pfizer o Moderna (dos dosis), planee recibir su segunda dosis en el mismo centro donde recibió la primera dosis.

Esperamos que esta vacunación dure varios meses, por lo que es importante ser pacientes y continuar con las medidas de protección ya implementadas durante todo este proceso, sin importar el estado de la vacunación. Sigan practicando las 3M's- usar una Mascarilla, Mantenerte a 6 pies o 2 metros de distancia, y lávarte las Manos - hasta que la mayor parte de la población tengan la oportunidad de vacunarse.

2. ¿Por qué debo vacunarme?

La vacuna lo protegerá contra el COVID-19, evitará que enferme gravemente y la propagación del virus en nuestra comunidad, así como salvará vidas.

No hay forma de saber cómo es que su cuerpo luchará contra el COVID-19 o el impacto que podría tener la enfermedad si se propaga a sus familiares, amigos u otros contactos cercanos. La vacuna ayudará a su cuerpo a desarrollar protección contra el COVID-19, sin tener que experimentar el virus propiamente dicho ni arriesgar propagar la enfermedad a otros.

Sabemos que únicamente las medidas de protección no han detenido la propagación del COVID-19. Cuando se alterne con estas medidas de protección, la vacuna apuntalará su efectividad para evitar infecciones por COVID-19 en toda la comunidad.

3. ¿Qué vacuna recibiré?

El Departamento de Salud Pública del Condado de New Hanover está planeando la distribución de todas las potenciales vacunas, ya sea una vacuna ultra fría de dos dosis o una vacuna refrigerada.

• Pfizer (6 meses o más)
• Moderna (6 meses o más)
• Johnson & Johnson / Janssen(18 años o más)

4. ¿Cómo recibiré la vacuna?

Las vacunas las administrará Salud Pública, proveedores de atención médica, hospitales, clínicas y farmacias en la comunidad.

5. ¿Cómo sé si la vacuna es segura?

Todas las vacunas pasan por ensayos clínicos y monitoreos extensos, a fin de identificar su efectividad, potenciales efectos secundarios o inquietudes de seguridad antes de ser aprobadas para uso público, y la vacuna contra el COVID-19 no es distinta.

De acuerdo a ley, cualquier potencial efecto secundario debe ser reportado por el fabricante del fármaco. Hasta ahora, ninguna de las vacunas en las etapas finales de desarrollo han reportado inquietudes de seguridad significativas en sus ensayos.

Los CDC también lanzarán una aplicación denominada "V-Safe", la cual permitirá a los usuarios reportar cualquier efecto secundario que experimenten después de recibir la vacuna.

El monitoreo de los potenciales efectos secundarios será continuo mientras se distribuya la vacuna, con reportes obligatorios de cualquier efecto adverso al Sistema para reportar reacciones adversas a las vacunas (VAERS, por sus siglas en inglés) y al Enlace de datos sobre la seguridad de las vacunas (VSD, por sus siglas en inglés).

6. ¿La vacuna es segura para los niños?

Sí, las vacunas de Pfizer y Moderna contra el COVID-19 es segura y efectiva en niños y adolescentes. Miles de niños, millones de adolescentes recibieron vacunas contra el COVID-19 durante los ensayos clínicos y decenas de millones de adultos en los EE.UU. han recibido vacunas COVID-19 bajo el control de seguridad más intenso en la historia de los EE.UU.

Los niños y los adolescentes, al igual que los adultos, pueden tener algunas reacciones temporales, como dolor en el brazo, sensación de cansancio o dolor durante uno o dos días, dolor de cabeza o fiebre. Estas son señales normales y buenas de que su cuerpo está construyendo protección y deberían desaparecer en unos días.

Los padres / cuidadores pueden inscribir a sus niños o adolescentes en v-safe, una herramienta gratuita basada en teléfonos inteligentes que utiliza mensajes de texto y encuestas web para brindar controles de salud personalizados. A través de v-safe, puedes informar cualquier efecto secundario que tu adolescente pueda tener después de la vacunación.

No ha habido datos de seguridad que sugieran que las vacunas contra el COVID-19 afecten el desarrollo de las adolescentes o su capacidad para quedar embarazadas en el futuro.

Los niños y los adolescentes ahora pueden recibir otras vacunas al mismo tiempo o aproximadamente al mismo tiempo que la vacuna contra el COVID-19.

La Sociedad Pediátrica de Carolina del Norte, junto con la Sociedad Médica de Carolina del Norte (NCMS) y la Academia de Médicos de Familia de Carolina del Norte, alientan encarecidamente a todas las familias a asegurarse de que los adolescentes de 6 meses o más se vacunen lo antes posible contra el COVID-19.

7. ¿Qué ocurre si no recibo la vacuna?

Sin la vacuna, se arriesga a exponerse y potencialmente, a enfermar gravemente por COVID-19 o propagarlo a otras personas sin darse cuenta.

Elegir no recibir la vacuna contra el COVID-19 puede no tener consecuencias inmediatas, al igual que elegir no vacunarse contra la influenza no significará que usted la contraiga de inmediato. Lo que significa es que la única forma en la que su cuerpo desarrolle defensas y protecciones contra el COVID-19 es a través del virus propiamente dicho.

No hay forma de saber cómo es que su cuerpo luchará contra el COVID-19 o el impacto que podría tener la enfermedad si se propaga a sus familiares, amigos u otros contactos cercanos. La vacuna ayudará a su cuerpo a desarrollar protección contra el COVID-19, sin tener que experimentar el virus propiamente dicho ni arriesgarse a propagar la enfermedad a otras personas.

8. ¿La vacuna me causará COVID-19? O, ¿me enfermará?

La vacuna contra el COVID-19 está diseñada, como muchas otras vacunas, para enseñarle a su cuerpo a luchar contra la infección. A veces, esta puede causar fiebre u otros síntomas que indican que su cuerpo está desarrollando inmunidad. Se reportará cualquier efecto secundario de la vacuna, según lo requerido por ley.

La vacuna no le provocará COVID-19, pero puede tomar algo de tiempo en desarrollar protección, por lo que es importante mantener las tres reglas básicas de manera consistente. Usar mascarilla, practicar el distanciamiento social y lavarse bien las manos frecuentemente, así como mantener las medidas de limpieza y desinfección.

9. Si recibo la vacuna, ¿seré inmune al COVID-19?

No precisamente. Como cualquier vacuna, su cuerpo necesita tiempo para desarrollar inmunidad y ese tiempo varía en cada persona.

Usted sigue siendo susceptible a infecciones durante una ventana de tiempo después de la vacunación, razón por la cual es importante que continúe las medidas de protección y las tres reglas básicas en los meses posteriores, a fin de evitar una enfermedad grave.

10. ¿Cuánto costará la vacuna?

La vacuna contra el COVID-19 será gratuita y accesible para todos. No requerirá seguro médico para recibir la vacuna.

11. Si me diagnostican COVID-19, ¿igual puedo recibir la vacuna?

Sí, y debería recibirla. Incluso si le han diagnosticado COVID-19, no existe información de cuánto durará la inmunidad natural, obtenida de la exposición al virus, en cada persona. Sigue siendo posible volverse a infectar, por lo que se alienta a todos a que reciban la vacuna para protegerse de una enfermedad grave.

12. ¿Cómo funciona el seguimiento de contactos?

El seguimiento de contactos (PDF) es una forma de comunicarse con las personas que han estado cerca de alguien cuya prueba del COVID-19 dio positiva. Por ejemplo, la semana pasada, Mia fue a trabajar y estuvo cerca de tres compañeros de trabajo. Mia después se sintió mal y se hizo la prueba del COVID-19. Mia obtuvo un resultado positivo. El Equipo Comunitario COVID19 llama a Mia para preguntarle con quién ha estado en contacto recientemente. Un miembro del equipo comunitario se pone en contacto con los compañeros de trabajo de Mia por teléfono o si es necesario por mensaje de texto o por un mensaje electrónico. El miembro les informa a cada compañeros de trabajo que pueden haber estado expuestos al COVID-19 y les ofrece apoyo. El miembro no compartirá el nombre o la información personal de Mia. Esta información es confidencial y permanecerá privada. Este proceso se conoce como seguimiento de contactos.

El equipo comunitario COVID-19 le llamará de NC OUTREACH 844-628-7223 si ha estado en contacto con alguien con COVID-19. El equipo comunitario se asegurará de darle información, recursos y apoyo para protegerle y a sus seres queridos; le ayudará a observar síntomas y a saber cuándo hacerse la prueba. Y si su resultado COVID-19 es positivo, el equipo se comunicará con quien haya entrado en contacto (sin compartir sus datos), para proporcionarles recursos y apoyo. Juntos podemos frenar la propagación.

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HHS - Flu Season

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1. What are flu signs and symptoms?

Typical flu symptoms include:

• Fever of 100° F or higher, or feeling feverish (not everyone with the flu has a fever)
• Cough and/or sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headaches and/or body aches
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea (most common in children)

Learn more about symptoms and diagnosis

2. How long does the flu last?

The flu typically lasts 5 to 7 days.

Learn more about flu treatment options and what to do if you get sick

3. How long should I stay home after the flu?

If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school until you have been fever free for at least 24 hours.

Learn other ways to stop the spread of germs.

4. Can the flu vaccine cause the flu?

There is no live flu virus in flu shots, so the vaccine cannot and does not cause the flu. Here are a few facts about the flu vaccine:

• Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors' visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.
• Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every year before flu activity begins in their community. CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October, if possible.
• Vaccination of people considered high-risk is incredibly important. That includes young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions, and people 65 years and older.
• Vaccination is also important for people who live with, or care for, someone who is high risk to keep from spreading the flu to them.
• Children younger than 6 months are at high risk of serious flu illness, but are too young to be vaccinated. People who care for infants should be vaccinated instead.

Learn more about the seasonal flu vaccine

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HHS - LIHWAP

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1. What is the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)?

The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a federally-funded program that provides emergency assistance to low-income households, particularly those with the lowest incomes, that pay a high proportion of household income for drinking water and wastewater services. LIHWAP is a temporary emergency program that helps eligible households afford water and wastewater services.  Payments are made directly to the household’s utility company.  

2. How do I qualify?

 To be eligible for LIHWAP, a household must have at least one U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen and: 

• Have income equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty level
• Have household services that are disconnected, in jeopardy of disconnection or have a current outstanding bill
• Be responsible for the water bill

Households can apply through September 30, 2023 or until funds run out.

3. How do I apply for LIHWAP?

• Online at the ePass website
• Phone by calling 910-798-3500, Option 4
• Print and mail the application (English & Spanish) to 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
• Print and fax the application (English & Spanish) to 910-798-7824
• In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
• Applications may be mailed upon request

4. If eligible, when will I receive a payment?

If eligible, the vendor that provides your water provider will receive a payment in 6-8 weeks from the time your application was approved. 

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HHS - Monkeypox

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1. What is mpox and how does it spread?

The first case of mpox in humans was recorded in 1970 and has been present in many central and western African countries since, but the current outbreak is being monitored as it presents and spreads in different ways than has been seen in the past. In May of 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) began tracking a global mpox outbreak.

Mpox is a rare disease caused by an orthopox virus that is spread through close physical contact, such as skin-to-skin contact or prolonged face-to-face contact with someone that has mpox.

While mpox is not a sexually transmitted infection it can be spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. It can also be spread through contact with items that have been used by someone with mpox.

Anyone can get mpox, but this outbreak is affecting men that have sex with men at a higher rate. Mpox can only be spread from someone that has symptoms. This type of mpox is rarely fatal, but can cause extremely painful symptoms.

2. What are the symptoms of mpox?

Mpox symptoms usually appear 1 to 2 weeks after exposure and can include a rash that can look like pimples or blisters and flu-like illness. Symptoms can be extremely painful and usually last 2 to 4 weeks.

The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing; and the rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

Other symptoms of mpox can include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Exhaustion
• Muscle aches and backache
• Headache
• Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)

You may experience all or only a few symptoms

• Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash.
• Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms.
• Others only experience a rash.

The mpox virus can be spread from the start of symptoms until the rash is fully healed. Most cases of monkeypox will recover on their own, however, some infections may result in hospitalization with children and immunocompromised individuals being at higher risk of severe infection.

If you are sick with mpox, isolate at home and if you have an active rash or other symptoms, stay in a separate room or area away from people or pets you live with, when possible.

Learn more about signs and symptoms.

3. Who is eligible and where can I get vaccinated?

The Jynneos vaccine can prevent mpox or reduce the severity of illness if given within two weeks of exposure. The vaccine is well-tolerated and consists of two doses separated by at least 28 days.

The Pandemic Operations Center is providing free vaccinations to high-risk individuals aged 18 and older. The Jynneos vaccine is available for individuals who self-identify as meeting the following criteria:

• Anyone who had close contact in the past two weeks with someone who has been diagnosed with mpox
• Gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, or transgender individuals, who are sexually active
• People who have had sexual contact with gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, or transgender individuals in the past 90 days
• People living with HIV, or taking medication to prevent HIV (PrEP), or who were diagnosed with syphilis in the past 90 days.
• People who have had any of the following in the past 6 months:
  • Sex at a commercial sex venue
  • Sex in association with a large public event
• Sexual partners of people with the above risks
• People who anticipate experiencing the above risks
  
  

To schedule an appointment for vaccination, call the Pandemic Operations Call Center at 910-798-6601.

4. Who should get tested for mpox?

If you think you may have been exposed to a person with mpox or if you are experiencing a new, unexplained skin rash, with or without a flu-like illness, contact a healthcare provider immediately to be tested.

Testing is available at some local healthcare providers and urgent cares (call in advance to ask if testing is available). In addition, New Hanover County Public Health has tests available and to schedule an appointment, call 910-367-2484.

Testing is completed by obtaining a swab of the rash that is sent to the state or other contracted lab for processing.

If you think you may have mpox, isolate at home and if you have an active rash or other symptoms, stay in a separate room or area away from people or pets you live with, when possible.

5. How can I protect myself from mpox?

In addition to receiving the vaccine if you are eligible, health officials encourage the community to practice the following three steps to prevent getting mpox:

1. Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have any new or unexplained rash or lesion.
   • Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with mpox.
   • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with mpox.
2. Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with mpox has used.
   • Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with mpox.
   • Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with mpox.
3. Wash your hands often.
   • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.

The CDC also encourages individuals to temporarily change some behaviors that may increase risk of being exposed, including safer sex practices. More information is available on the CDC's website.

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HHS - Opioids - Harm Reduction

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1. What are the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose?

An opioid overdose can be life-threatening. Call 9-1-1 immediately if an overdose is suspected.

If any of these symptoms present in an opioid user, seek emergency medical help immediately. 

SAVE ME Steps – Take Steps to Save a Life video

Symptoms to look for, referred to as the “opioid overdose triad”:

• Pinpoint pupils
• Slowed or stopped breathing
• Unconsciousness/non-responsiveness

2. What is Naloxone (Narcan)?

Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, is a medication that can be administered either through injection or as a nasal spray to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It works by helping the muscles of the lungs open back up, allowing the individual to breathe.

Read more about how Naloxone (Narcan) works

3. Where can I get Naloxone (Narcan)?

• NaloxoneSaves.Org: Provides information to pharmacies and the public about North Carolina's statewide standing order for naloxone.
• New Hanover County Health and Human Services: 1650 Greenfield Street Wilmington, NC 28401
  • Provides free Naloxone (Narcan) at the Public Health Clinic during clinic hours.
• North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition (NCHRC): 2154 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington NC 28403
  • Offers free overdose rescue kits to people with a high risk for overdose. Please visit NCHRC's website for more information.
• Pharmacies including CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid
  • No prescription required
  • Cost varies depending on insurance
• Emergency medical services (EMS), fire rescue, and law enforcement carry and administer Naloxone when medically necessary.
• GetNaloxoneNow.org

Naloxone Standing Order

While Naloxone, or Narcan, is a prescribed drug, the state of North Carolina passed a standing order in 2015 which allows government and non-government organizations to prescribe Naloxone to individuals they believe to be at risk. The standing order also protects organizations and individuals administering Naloxone against any legal action. Any individual is able to administer Naloxone if they meet the requirements of the law and have completed a short training on administration and signs of overdose.

4. How do I use Naloxone (Narcan)?

Watch “How To Use Narcan Nasal Spray” video

5. How do I dispose of needles / sharps?

How to Properly Dispose of Needles

Always use an FDA-cleared sharps container when available. Free sharps containers may be available from your doctor, health insurance provider, or medication supplier.

Dispose of Sharps Containers

• North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition's (NCHRC) Wilmington office, located at 2154 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington NC 28403
• Email Becca Lilly, Exchange Program Manager or the Executive Director or call 910-228-7605 or 336-543-8050

If you cannot get an FDA-cleared sharps container, follow these guidelines:

• Use an empty household container with these features:
  • Tight-fitting lid that cannot be punctured
  • Stays upright
  • Made of heavy-duty plastic that will not puncture easily
  • Does not leak
• Dispose of household sharps container when it is 2/3 full:
  • Close lid, tape shut, and label “sharps biohazard”
  • Take sharps container to sharps disposal program
  • If you cannot find a sharps disposal program, put the container in the center of a full trash bag and discard in regular trash. Do not put sharps containers in recycling.
• How To Safely Dispose Of Needles (PDF)

6. How do I exchange needles / syringes?

In July 2016, Governor Pat McCrory signed a bill legalizing syringe exchanges in North Carolina. While needle exchanges are legal, they do not receive any taxpayer funding.

North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition (NCHRC) Needle Exchange - Wilmington

• Offers fixed, mobile, and peer-based needle exchanges in New Hanover County.
  • The NCHRC Wilmington office is located at 2154 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington NC 28403.
• Mobile and peer exchange are also available in Brunswick County through the NCHRC Wilmington exchange. Email Becca Lilly, Exchange Program Manager or the Executive Director or call 910-228-7605 or 336-543-8050

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Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. How do I know I submitted my application properly?

You will receive a confirmation email notifying you that your application was successfully submitted.  You can also go to GovernmentJobs, enter your username and password (same username and password used when completing the online application), and click on the “Applications and Status” tab.

2. How can I check the status of my application?

Go to GovernmentJobs, enter your username and password (same username and password used when completing the online application), and click on the “Applications & Status” tab.

3. How and when can I update my application?

Changes can be made to each section of the application at any time before it is submitted. Once you submit your application, the information is final and you cannot go back and make changes to the submitted application. If you submit a duplicate application for the same position before the closing date of the position, only the most recent application will be considered.

Please contact Human Resources if your address and / or phone number changes after you submit your application.

4. What if I am not ready to fill out the application at this time?

No application is submitted until you click on the “Submit” button.  If at any time you do not want to submit your application, save your work, then logout.

5. Will I automatically be considered for other positions if I previously applied?

No, you must submit a separate application for each position you are interested in.

6. I missed the deadline. Can I still apply?

No. Once the closing date for a position has passed, additional applications will not be accepted. Please continue to visit our website and apply for new jobs as they become available. You may also want to sign up for Job Alerts to automatically be notified when a position you are interested in becomes available. 

Sign up for Job Alerts to receive an email when there is a new position available with New Hanover County in your field.

For the next 12 months after you submit the job alerts form, you will receive an email notification when a position opens with New Hanover County whose category matches the categories you selected.

7. How do I print my application?

After you have submitted your application, a link will appear that says “Click here for a printable version of the application you just submitted.” 

8. Can I apply for more than one job at a time?

Yes, you can apply for any positions that are currently accepting applications.

9. Who will see my application when I use the online process?

All information is on a secure web server.  Only the Human Resources department and authorized county department users have access to submitted applications.

10. What if I do not have a computer or access to the web?

Public computers are available in many public libraries and in the NHC government center which is available Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, located at 230 Government Center Dr. in Wilmington. Applications can also be completed by using a smartphone or tablet.

11. How will I know if a position I have applied for has been filled?

You will receive an email notification when a position that you have applied to has been filled.  You can check the status of your application at any time by logging back into the application portal and clicking "application status."

12. Does NHC also accept applications for vacancies at the Cape Fear Public Utility authority, City of Wilmington, or other government agencies?

No. New Hanover County is a separate organization and only accepts applications  for vacancies at New Hanover County government.

13. What should I do if I am interested in a position but it is not listed on the vacancy list?

Applications are accepted only for jobs that are currently open and available on the website.  Sign up for Job Alerts to receive an email when there is a new position available with New Hanover County in your field.

For the next 12 months after you submit this form, you will receive an email notification when a position opens with New Hanover County whose category matches the categories you selected.

14. Who should I contact to follow up on my application?

Applicants who are selected for the next stage of the recruitment process will be contacted directly by Human Resources or the hiring department. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we do not notify each applicant individually regarding the status of the recruitment for the position. To check the status of your application, go to GovernmentJobs, enter your username and password (same username and password used when completing the online application), and click on the “Applications and Status” tab.

15. What happens after I submit my application?

After the closing date of the position, applications are reviewed and screened by the Human Resources department. Some positions may require pre-employment testing prior to a referral being made to the department. After screening by Human Resources, the best-qualified candidates are referred to the hiring department to be brought through the first step in the recruitment process. Candidates referred to the hiring department will be notified via email by Human Resources.

16. How long does it take for the hiring manager to schedule interviews after a position closes?

If you are selected for referral to the hiring department, you will be contacted either by phone or email, within a target of two weeks after the closing date of the position. If you have not been contacted by the department within two weeks after you have been notified that your application was referred, please contact the Human Resources department at 910-798-7178.

17. Can I submit a resume only?

No, New Hanover County requires a completed application. The employment application has been designed to provide the information needed to make employment-related decisions. Applicants are encouraged to thoroughly complete each field of the application and ensure accuracy before submitting it.  An applicant may provide a resume and/or cover letter as an attachment to the completed application.

18. Does NHC require candidates for employment to submit to a drug screen or physical examination?

As a condition of employment, all persons selected for employment are required to pass a drug screening. Certain positions require a physical examination such as those in the Sheriff’s Office and Fire Services.

19. How long will my application remain "active"?

Applications remain active or on file until a hiring decision has been made. New Hanover County does not re-activate applications for future vacancies. You will receive email notification once the position you applied for has been filled.

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Legal - County Attorney

Show All Answers

1. What department is to be contacted when trying to retrieve information on real estate matters, marriage licenses, birth certificates and/or death certificates for New Hanover County?

The number for the Register of Deeds and Vital Records is 910-798-4530. Listings may also be located under the listing for New Hanover County in the phone book for Wilmington.

2. What department is to be contacted concerning an issue such as criminal cases or speeding tickets?

The District Attorney's office is the department to contact. The number for this office is 910-772-6610. The number may also be located in the local phone book for Wilmington under North Carolina State Government.

3. When is a contract for a project for the County completed?

When the contractor and the County have executed the contract and the original certificate of insurance and/or bonds for the contract have been received.

4. What office should be contacted for questions concerning the procedures and/status on estates and wills?

The department to be contacted is Estates and Special Proceedings at 910-772-6600. This department is a division of the North Carolina State Government. The number may also be located under the listings for North Carolina State Government, Clerk of Superior Court in the phone book for Wilmington.

5. Where would a person be able to inquire about the procedures to file documents in connection with lawsuits as well as locate and check on the status of various lawsuits?

The department to be contacted is the Clerk of Court at 910-772-6600. The number may also be located under the listing for North Carolina State Government in the local phone book for Wilmington.

6. Who do I contact for a cable television complaint?

Recent North Carolina legislation has removed all cable franchising authority from counties and towns.

Time Warner Customers

If you have a complaint regarding Time Warner Cable and are unable to correct the issue with the company, contact the North Carolina Attorney General's office.

Charter Communications Customers

If you have a complaint regarding Charter Communications, please be aware that New Hanover County may only assist if the problem is regarding quality of service. We have no authority over cable pricing. With the expiration of the county's franchise in the fall of 2012, all complaints related to Charter Communications should be directed to the North Carolina Attorney General's office.

Please note, if you are unable to satisfy your concerns regarding cable television service, contact your state representative or state senator. 

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Legal - Risk Management

Show All Answers

1. What are the Risk Management Department's phone and fax numbers?

Phone: 910-798-7497

Fax: 910-798-7157

2. What is the Risk Management Department's mailing address?

230 Government Center Drive, Suite 125-A
Wilmington, NC 28403

3. Can Risk Management provide advice about insuring my commercial business?

No.  Please contact your insurance agent or call the North Carolina Insurance Commissioner’s office at 1-800-546-5664.

4. Can the Risk Management Department answer questions about my homeowners, auto, life, or health insurance?

No. Please contact your insurance agent or call the North Carolina Insurance Commissioner's office at 800-546-5664.

5. Can I get definitions for Insurance and Risk Management terms?

Yes. Please refer to this glossary.

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Maps

Show All Answers

1. How do I download GIS data?

GIS data can be downloaded from our Open Data portal in a variety of formats (Shapefile, Excel, CSV) 

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Parks & Gardens - Airlie Gardens

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1. Is there a fee to visit Airlie Gardens?

Yes, the cost is $9 for adults, $5 for NHC Residents and Military, and $3 for children aged 4 to 12 years. Admission is free for NHC Residents on the first Sunday of every month.  (Proof of ID is needed for NHC Residents and Military.)

2. Can I bring my pet to Airlie?

Due to the unpredictable nature of animals, Airlie does not allow pets in the Gardens.  Pets are not conducive towards our focus on water quality, wildlife, visitor comfort and manicured horticulture.

3. Can I fish or kayak at Airlie?

Fishing and kayaking are not daily experiences offered at the gardens.  We do offer kayaking and fishing programs through the Environmental Education Program.  Please check the events calendar to view a list of our scheduled programs.

4. Is there a restaurant on site?

Airlie Gardens does not offer food service.  The gift shop does carry small snacks and there is a drink vending machine located outside the gift shop.  Please visit the Garden Services Center to view a collection of menus from area restaurants.  Within one mile of the Gardens there are 15 restaurants.  We are glad to call any restaurant to see if they offer call-ahead seating and make a reservation for you.

5. Is Airlie Gardens accessible to visitors with mobility impairments?

Airlie is predominantly a walking experience, but many of our paths and gardens are easily accessible by wheelchair.  Thanks to funding from two local foundations, we also offer an Accessibility Tram.  On scheduled days, the tram drives a route around the gardens.  You can get on and off the tram at your leisure.  There are six tram stops in the gardens.

6. Can I have my wedding, reception or special event at Airlie?

Yes, we hold many special events every year.

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Parks & Gardens - Athletic Facilities

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1. How can I find out if athletic fields are closed due to weather?

Decisions to close athletic fields due to weather are typically made between 12 and 1 pm each day.

Parks and Gardens gives you the option to receive field notifications by email or text message through the RainedOut app. To register, go to the RainedOut website and sign up with your mobile phone number or email address. You will then receive the notifications. You may unsubscribe from the service at any time.

RainedOut is a third-party app used by the county. To receive emails is free, but there is a charge of $7.30 per year for recipients to receive text messages.

Field closures are also posted on the Parks and Gardens Facebook and Twitter.

2. Do you have any basketball courts?

Yes, we have basketball courts at Arrowhead, Kings Grant, Long Leaf, Parkwood, Ogden and Veterans Parks.

3. Can I fly model airplanes on athletic fields?

Requests to fly model airplanes must be pre-approved by the Parks Assistant Director. Requestor must provide proof of General Liability insurance with at least $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate.

4. Can I hit golf balls on athletic fields?

No, hitting golf balls is not allowed on any parks facilities.

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Parks & Gardens - Echo Farms Park

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1. Do I need a reservation to play tennis at Echo Farms Park?

Yes. The courts are available to the public, however, they must be reserved in order to play. Court reservations are $5 per hour for New Hanover County residents and $8 per hour for non-residents. Court reservations may be made online, by phone at 910-798-7730, or on-site in the tennis pro shop.

2. Is there a dress code to play tennis at Echo Farms?

Shirts and tennis shoes are required.

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Parks & Gardens - General Parks Questions

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1. Can I park at River Road Park or Trails End Park to camp on one of the islands?

No, we only allow parking at Trails End Park for those who are utilizing the boat slip to actively fish.  However, the park itself closes at sunset. River Road Park closes at sunset and does not allow overnight parking.

2. Can I have a fundraising event in the park?

Yes, you may have a fundraising event if you are an established non-profit organization or sponsored by an established non-profit organization and be able to provide us with your tax ID number.

3. Can children using mobility devices use the splashpad at Long Leaf Park? What if my mobility device cannot tolerate moisture?

Yes! The Splashpad is accessible to anyone using a mobility device. We also have a water wheelchair that can be used by those whose mobility devices cannot tolerate moisture. Contact the parks and gardens office at 910-798-7620 to use the water wheelchair.

4. The Liberty Swing at Long Leaf Park is locked. How do I gain access to use the swing?

The Liberty Wheelchair Swing requires a code to unlock the swing for use. Contact the parks office during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm) at 910-798-7620 to obtain the code.

5. Can I rake pine straw in the park for my yard?

We do not allow anyone to rake pine straw in the parks.  The pine straw is used throughout the parks.

6. Can I walk my dog off leash in any of the county owned parks?

No, you must abide by the county leash law.  Dogs are only allowed off-leash in designated areas at Long Leaf Park and Ogden Park.

7. Can I have alcohol in the park?

Beer and wine in non-glass containers are allowed with a picnic shelter reservation. No liquor is allowed.  Alcohol must be kept underneath or within 50 feet of the shelter and is not permitted on or near a playground.  Beer and wine are permitted with an Airlie Gardens event reservation with the proper permit.

8. Can I park my car overnight in a park?

No, overnight parking is not allowed in any New Hanover County-owned park.

9. Do you allow yard sales in the park?

No, yard sales are not allowed.

10. Can I use a metal detector at the park?

Yes, you may use a metal detector, however, digging is not allowed in any park.

11. Can I fly my drone in New Hanover County Parks?

Requests to fly drones must be pre-approved by the Parks Assistant Director. Requestor must provide proof of General Liability insurance with at least $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate.

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Parks & Gardens - Picnic Shelters

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1. If all of the picnic shelters are reserved, can I bring in my own table to have a party?

Unfortunately, we do not allow tables to be brought into the park without a picnic shelter reservation.  We have individual picnic tables in the parks that can be used on a first come first served basis.

2. Do I have to reserve a picnic shelter?

You can use shelters on a first come, first served basis if they are not reserved by another group.

3. Is there a fee to reserve picnic shelters?

Yes, we do charge a fee to reserve a shelter, however, unreserved shelters may be used on a first-come, first-served basis.

4. How far in advance can I make a reservation?

Reservations may be made one year in advance.

5. What is the largest shelter?

Shelter Number 6 at Long Leaf Park is the largest shelter. It has enough seating for 125 adults.

6. Are inflatables or tents allowed with picnic shelter reservations?

We do not allow tents or inflatables with picnic shelter reservations.

7. Can I set up an inflatable or tent in a park that is used on a first come first served basis?

No, inflatables and tents are not allowed.

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Parks & Gardens - Watersports

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1. Can I swim at any of the county parks?

Swimming is not allowed at any of the county parks except for the pool at Echo Farms Park. 

2. Where can I launch my kayak?

We have launch sites at River Road, Smith Creek and Trails End Parks, and Pages Creek Park Preserve.

3. Where can I launch my boat?

Small motorized boats may be launched at River Road and Trails End Parks.  Kayaks and non-motorized watercraft may be launched at River Road, Smith Creek and Trails End Parks, and Pages Creek Park Preserve.

4. Where can I fish in the parks?

Catch-and-release fishing is allowed at River Road, Smith Creek, and Trails End Parks with a valid NC Fishing License.

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Planning & Land Use

Show All Answers

1. What is the jurisdiction of New Hanover County?

Governing Jurisdiction of New Hanover County

New Hanover County is made up of five municipalities, however only the unincorporated area is governed by New Hanover County. Each municipality has their own planning and land use regulations.

1. Unincorporated 
2. City of Wilmington
3. Wrightsville Beach
4. Carolina Beach
5. Kure Beach

Please view our parcel map to view the township boundaries. 

2. Who can help with a permit?

Building Permits

New Hanover County Planning and Land Use does not issue or review permits. For general help or inquires regarding your permit you can call the COAST help line. For general FAQ's please visit Building Safety's webpage.

Applications

You can apply for a building permit through our COAST portal. 

COAST Help

If you need assistance navigating COAST, please contact Development Services. 

Contact Information:

• 910-798-7308, option 1
• coast@nhcgov.com

3. Who maintains my road?

New Hanover County Roads

New Hanover County does not maintain or own any roads in the unincorporated area. 

Public vs Private Roads

• Public roads are maintained by the NCDOT. 
• Private roads are maintained by private entities like HOA's or parcel owners. 
  

NCDOT Public Street Information Map

Transportation Planning

The Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (WMPO) serves as the local transportation planning entity. 

For more information regarding long term projects please visit the WMPO website.

4. What can I build on my land?

Each parcel is zoned for a specific use and are bound by zoning regulations. Our UDO outlines each zone and the associated uses. To change the zoning classification of a parcel or property, it must go through a public legislative process called a rezoning. 

UDO

Parcel Map

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Planning & Land Use - Addressing

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1. How can I view my parcel information?

You can view parcel information and address changes on the “Parcel Look-Up” map on the GIS mapping website. Parcel data is updated every 24 hours. Email Katherine May for help or additional information regarding the parcel map.

2. Who do I contact about obtaining an address?

• Unincorporated county (outside city limits) - Email Katherine May
• City of Wilmington - Email Michelle Hutchinson
• Wrightsville Beach - Email Danielle Vegas
• Carolina Beach - Email Gigi Baggarley
• Kure Beach - Email John Batson

3. Why is my address not reflected on Google maps or other mapping services?

Private companies are not contacted for address or parcel changes; New Hanover County has no bearing on when private companies update their information.

We do send updates to the United States Postal Service for address changes. If USPS can’t find your address, please contact the appropriate addressing coordinator for your jurisdiction.

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Planning & Land Use - Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA)

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1. What is Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA), and when would I need a CAMA permit?

CAMA is the Coastal Area Management Act. It was passed into law in 1974 and is meant to protect coastal resources in our state through an integrated system of land and water management.

• When is a CAMA permit required?
  • A CAMA major or minor permit is required for most development within an AEC.
• What is an AEC?
  • An AEC is an Area of Environmental Concern. Four groups of AECs are defined by CAMA:
    • Estuarine System - this includes coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, public trust areas and coastal shoreline.
    • Ocean Hazard Areas - this includes ocean erodible areas, high hazard flood areas, inlet hazard areas, and unvegetated beach.
    • Public Water Supplies - which are small surface supply watersheds or public water supply well fields in the Wilmington area.
    • Natural and Cultural Resource Areas - this includes complex natural areas, unique geological formations, significant archeological and historic architectural resources.
• What is considered development?
  • The Coastal Area Management Act defines development as “any activity in a duly designated area of environmental concern... involving, requiring or consisting of the construction or enlargement of a structure; excavation; dredging; filling; dumping; removal of clay, silt, sand, gravel or minerals; bulkheading; driving of pilings; clearing or alteration of land as an adjunct of construction; alteration or removal of sand dunes; alteration of the shore, bank or bottom of the Atlantic Ocean or any sound, bay, river, creek, stream, lake or canal; or placement of a floating structure in an Area of Environmental Concern identified in G.S. 113A-113(b)(2) or (b)(5){NCGS 113A-103(5)(a)}.”

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Planning & Land Use - Flood

Show All Answers

1. Can I build in a floodway?

A structure may be built in a floodway only if it can be demonstrated through an engineering analysis, commonly referred to as a “No-Rise” study, that the development will not result in any increase in the flood levels during the occurrence of the base flood. A floodway is defined as the channel of a river, or other watercourse, and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one foot.

2. How can I find out if my property is located in a floodplain?

You can access the county’s flood maps on the GIS mapping website on the “Where does it Flood” tab. Floodplain information can also be found on the Flood Risk Information System website, or by contacting a member of New Hanover County’s Planning and Land Use staff.

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Planning & Land Use - Report a Violation

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1. What happens after a Notice of Violation is issued?

After a Notice of Violation is issued, periodic follow-up inspections are conducted to determine if compliance has been met. The property owner may call New Hanover County Code Enforcement at 910-798-7116 to discuss a plan of action to meet compliance. Follow-up inspections are performed to determine if compliance has been met.

If a property owner fails to comply with New Hanover County Code Regulations, the county may issue civil penalties per G.S. 153A-123.

New Hanover County Zoning Ordinance 132: Enforcement of Ordinance states:

Section 132: Enforcement of Ordinance

This ordinance may be enforced by any one or more of the remedies authorized by G.S. S153A-123, including but not limited to the following:

• 132-1: Violation of this ordinance subjects the offender to a civil penalty of one hundred dollars ($100.00) for a first offense, two hundred dollars ($200.00) for a second offense, and three hundred dollars ($300.00) for a third and subsequent offense to be recovered by the County in a civil action in the nature of debt if the offender does not pay the penalty to the county Finance Office within fifteen calendar days after the offender has been cited for a violation. Violation of this ordinance shall result only in civil penalties and/or civil action set forth herein and shall not entail criminal sanctions. (January 5th, 1998)(December 5th, 2011)
• 132-2: This ordinance may be enforced by an appropriate equitable remedy issuing from a court of competent jurisdiction.
• 132-3: This ordinance may be enforced by injunction, order of abatement, or both, as provided in G.S. 153A-123(e).
• 132-4: Each days’ continuing violation of the ordinance is a separate and distinct offense.

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Planning & Land Use - Zoning

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit for a swimming pool?

Yes, the setbacks for a pool are dependent on the size. Pools under 600 square feet can be up to 5 feet from the side and rear property lines. Pools that are 600 square feet and larger must meet setbacks based on the zoning classification of the property. The setbacks apply to the pool depression of an in-ground pool and not to the concrete slab surrounding the pool.

2. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

No, the county’s zoning ordinance does not regulate fences. However, you should verify that the fence does not encroach into any access, stormwater, or utility easements, and if applicable, check with your neighborhood homeowner’s association (HOA) for any restrictions on fences.

3. Do I need a permit to put up a sign?

Most signs are regulated by the county’s Unified Development Ordinance and some require a permit. For more information about sign regulations, refer to Sections 90 to 96 (pages 204 to 218) of the New Hanover County Unified Development Ordinance.

4. Do Zoning staff regulate animal issues?

No, please contact New Hanover County Animal Control Services at 910-341-4197.

5. Do Zoning staff regulate noise issues?

No, please contact the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Department at 910-798-4206 with noise complaints.

6. How can I find out the zoning of my property?

The county zoning map indicates the zoning of all properties in the county. View the interactive zoning map.

7. Is a permit required to operate a Residential Care Facility?

Yes, a permit is required to operate a Residential Care Facility. A Residential Care Facility is defined as a home with support and supervisory personnel that provides room and board, personal care, and rehabilitation services in a family environment for not more than six resident handicapped persons. Residential care facilities require zoning approval and must be at least 2,000 feet apart.

8. What are subdivision regulations?

Subdivision regulations are rules and standards adopted by the New Hanover County Board of County Commissioners that establish how land is divided into lots for development. Subdivision regulations also identify the county’s requirements for appropriate public infrastructure within the subdivision, such as access and streets, lot layout, utilities, water supply, and stormwater drainage.

View the county’s current subdivision regulations.

9. What are the regulations for home occupations?

Home occupations may be permitted provided the following criteria are met:

1. Only one person, other than members of the family residing on the premises, can be engaged in such occupation;
2. The use of the dwelling unit for the home occupation must be clearly incidental and subordinate to its use for residential purpose by its occupants, and not more than 25% of the floor area of the dwelling unit can be used in the conduct of the home occupation;
3. There must be no change in the outside appearance of the building or premises, or other visible evidence of the conduct of such home occupation other than one non-illuminated sign, not exceeding 2.25 square feet, mounted flat against the wall of the principal building;
4. No home occupation can be conducted in any accessory building, such as a detached garage or shed;
5. Traffic must not be generated by such home occupation in greater volumes than would normally be expected in a residential neighborhood, and any need for parking generated by the conduct of such home occupation must be met off the street and other than in any required yard. Vehicles used primarily as passenger vehicles including pickup trucks and step-type vans only may be permitted in connection with the conduct of the customary home occupation;
6. No equipment or process can be used in such home occupation which creates noise, vibration, glare, fumes, or electrical interference detectable to the normal senses off the lot. In the case of the electrical interference, no equipment or process can be used which creates visual or audible interference in any radio or television receivers off the premises, or causes fluctuations in line voltages off the premises;
7. Display of products must not be visible from the street. The selling of merchandise or the manufacture of merchandise for sale, except baking, sewing, and/or handicrafts normally made in the home, cannot be the primary function of the home occupation; and
8. Instruction in music, dancing, or tutoring of academic subjects must be limited to four students at a time.

10. What are zoning regulations?

Zoning regulations are rules and standards adopted by the New Hanover County Board of County Commissioners that establish the basic, common requirements for property development on an individual lot. Zoning regulations establish the different types of development districts in the county, such as residential, commercial or industrial, and identify appropriate standards for lot size, building placement, height of structures, and uses in those districts. Zoning regulations typically include standards for the basic design of features such as parking lots, landscaping, parks and open spaces, commercial lighting, and rural character conservation.

View the county’s current zoning regulations.

11. What is a Conservation Overlay District (COD), and what can I do within a COD?

A Conservation Overlay District is meant to protect important environmental and cultural resources. The effective date of the ordinance (Section 59.4) is December 1, 1984.

• What are considered important resources?
  • Important resources include swamp forest, Pocosin, Savannah, natural ponds, freshwater marsh, brackish marsh, primary nursery areas, barrier island-beach complex, maritime shrub thickets, salt marsh, animal and plant natural areas of special significance, and archaeological and historical resources including cemeteries.
• How do I know if my parcel of land is associated with a COD?
  • Mapping tools are available to help determine if a COD resource exists on or near a property. Planning & Land Use staff are also available for on-site determinations.
• What is the distance of the COD setback?
  • The COD setback distance for buildings and impervious surfaces varies from 25 feet to 100 feet from the edge of the resource depending on the type of resource.
• What can I do within the conservation space?
  • Conservation space must not be cleared of vegetation and must not be developed in any manner that would negatively impact the resource, with the following exceptions:
    • Improvements that would protect or enhance the enjoyment of the resource including walkways, self-guided trails, protective fences, and docks.
    • Access to other parts of the parcel designed to the greatest extent practical to minimize impact to the resource.
    • Decks may encroach up to six feet if they are uncovered, allow water to drip through, and the ground below is left undisturbed or planted with ground cover.

12. What is a Unified Development Ordinance?

New Hanover County’s new Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) will provide the community with a combined set of zoning, subdivision, stormwater, flood, and erosion control regulations in a single document. The creation of the combined UDO is not a new way to regulate development, but a better way to organize documents for the many developers, site designers, reviewers, residents, and decision-makers who use them. The combination of the county’s multiple sets of regulations in one document ensures that the rules of development in the county are easy to access, work in tandem with one another, and provide for the kind of development anticipated in the county’s adopted plans.

13. What is a variance and how do I obtain one?

A variance is a relaxation of the terms of the Zoning Ordinance. Variances may only be authorized for height, area, and size of structures, or size of yards and open spaces. An application to obtain a variance can be found under Zoning Applications on the Current Planning and Zoning Overview page. Variances may be approved by the Zoning Board of Adjustment when the variance will not be contrary to the public interest, and, where due to the peculiar conditions of the property, literal enforcement of the Ordinance would result in an unnecessary and undue hardship.

14. What is required by the Zoning office to open a business in New Hanover County?

If you are moving into an existing building, you will need to confirm if the property is zoned correctly for the business you would like to open. You will also need to apply for a change of use or occupancy certification permit with the Building Safety Inspections division. If your building requires any new construction, you will need to apply for a building permit with the Building Safety Department.

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Project Grace

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1. What is the goal of the project?

The primary goal of the project is to have a new, purpose-built, modern facility in downtown Wilmington that brings the Public Library and Cape Fear Museum together and meets the specific and unique needs of both, creating new synergy in services and enhancing the visitor's experience.

It can serve as a catalyst for continued momentum and growth in downtown Wilmington and all of New Hanover County. And the strategic use of this county block could bring substantial financial and social benefits to our community with the introduction of world class, state-of-the-art library and museum facilities. Additional focus into the arts, learning, and culture sectors can lead to better branding and market recognition for our city and county, as well as enrich the overall community.

2. What is Cape Fear Development's involvement in the project?

In late 2022, after the county did not receive financing approval for the lease agreement with Zimmer Development and their withdrawal from the project, Cape Fear Development expressed interest in the project. Cape Fear Development is a local company with deep communities ties, and the county has had a successful relationship with them through the government center redevelopment project, which is structured as a public-private partnership. This new agreement for Project Grace has been structured similarly to that of the government center site.

After expressing potential interest in the project, Cape Fear Development spent nearly five months analyzing the county's purchased plans, evaluating the merits of the project, and engaging with the community for feedback using their own time and resources at no cost to the county. 

In the review of the purchased plans, Cape Fear Development has been engaged with the existing design and construction team — LS3P and Monteith Construction — and identified $4 million in potential cost savings using “value engineering” techniques. Cape Fear Development also engaged with multiple community groups and organizations about the project and heard very positive feedback, with the majority of people wanting to see the project move forward.  

After their extensive research, Cape Fear Development determined they wanted to be a partner in this project and, at the end of March, they presented their findings to the Board of Commissioners at an agenda review meeting. At that time, Commissioners agreed to move forward with a development agreement and for staff to negotiate the terms of the agreement to bring a state-of-the art library and museum to the block with compatible and timely private investment.

3. What is outlined in the new development agreement?

The new development agreement with Cape Fear Development utilizes the same architectural design of the library and museum that was part of the previous agreement, including the location on the northside of the property to ensure continuity of operations for the current library. In addition, the agreement outlines several key terms for the project including: 

• The cost to the county for construction of the new museum and library, parking deck improvements and development fee is not to exceed $60,524,860. The county will then finance this amount and pay interest over the life the debt. This differs from the previous development model of a lease financing option. 
• Cape Fear Development will undergo a competitive rebid process for the project, utilizing three subcontractors for each trade and New Hanover County will engage a third-party construction consultant, who will provide an independent review of the work generated. A construction manager at risk model will be used, to ensure the project can be delivered at or under budget. 
• Once the new museum and library facility and parking deck improvements are substantially complete, the county will sell the south parcel of the property to Cape Fear Development for mixed-use private development.  
• Cape Fear Development has committed to pay no less than $3.5 million for the south parcel property. Two appraisals will also be conducted for the property, and Cape Fear Development will pay the higher of the two appraisals if it is more than $3.5 million.  
• Within 24 months of the land sale, Cape Fear Development will begin construction of a mixed-use development, which may include a combination of commercial and residential space, on the south parcel (where the existing library is located). The private investment will be the greater of $30,125,838 or 25 percent of the cost of construction and renovation of the entire project.  
• The existing parking deck, once improved, will be shared between the county and Cape Fear Development on mutually agreed-upon terms. 

You can view the entire development agreement here.

4. How will the project be financed?

The development agreement with Cape Fear Development stipulates that the cost to the county for the construction of a new museum and library, parking deck improvements, and the development fee is not to exceed $60,524,860. The county will then finance this amount and pay interest over the life the debt. This differs from the previous development model of a lease financing option. Given the county’s AAA ratings, the county will be able to borrow at the lowest interest rate possible. 

Cape Fear Development will undergo a competitive rebid process for the project, utilizing three subcontractors for each trade and New Hanover County will engage a third-party construction consultant, who will provide an independent review of the work generated. A construction manager at risk model will be used, to ensure the project can be delivered at or under budget. 

Additional costs, including those for exhibit design and fabrication, furniture, fixtures and equipment, will be part of the total project budget presented in July to Commissioners. These costs are outside of the $60.5 million that the county would issue debt for.

5. What would the new public facility include?

The new purpose-built Public Library and Cape Fear Museum building would be 95,000 gross square feet, inclusive of the building footprint, loading dock and bay, and large outdoor terrace. It would be a modern space that brings the library and museum together to enhance the visitor's experience. 

The library space will include spaces for adults, children, teens, and local history; and the museum space will include an immersive theater, interactive and engaging galleries, and space for a changing gallery. In addition, shared space in the building will include multi-purpose rooms and an outdoor terrace.

6. What services will the library have?

The library will continue to provide adult services, children services, and local history services, and will be adding enhanced teen and tween services to ensure all our citizens have a place to learn and grow. The library will have shared multi-purpose space for more programming opportunities, as well as a lot of natural light to ensure it is a welcoming and open space.

The project plans ensure that library service remain on the block for the entire duration of the project - so that there is continuity of services for the majority of the project. The downtown library would remain in its current location until the new building on the other side of the block is ready to move into. At that time, work would take place to move the library into the new facility, with only temporary closures for patrons.

7. What services will the museum have?

The museum experience will be greatly enhanced with a planetarium/immersive theater interactive and engaging galleries for Cape Fear Stories, Science Matters, Port City Play, and a changing gallery to accommodate a wider range of traveling exhibits. There will be outdoor space dedicated to the museum and for the community, and shared multi-purpose space for additional programming opportunities.

8. What happens to the current Cape Fear Museum building?

New Hanover County values our region's rich and diverse history, and the museum's work in preserving that history and educating the community. The county will maintain the current museum property on Market Street as a research and collections facility, effectively doubling the overall space allocation for the museum.

9. Could the existing library building be renovated for the project?

Early on in the project, adaptive reuse of the existing library building was explored and researched. However, it was determined by the previous development team that the amount of work needed on the existing building to accomplish the goals of having a state-of-the-art library and museum in downtown would not be cost-beneficial when compared to the development of a new structure. Cape Fear Development took a fresh look at those findings, challenged them and ultimately came to the same conclusion that adaptive reuse is not feasible from a cost standpoint for this building. 

In addition, by constructing the library and museum on the north side of the block, it ensures that the existing library will remain open until the new library is completed and can open.

10. Is parking on the block being factored into the project?

The parking deck on the site will remain and be improved by the developer; and the county, as the current owner of the 620-space parking deck, will continue to manage the deck. Parking will be provided for the museum and library patrons as well as private development.

There will also be areas for school buses to pull in, to ensure ease of access for field trips.

11. What will be on the private side of the block?

Under the new development agreement, Cape Fear Development is committing to at least $30 million in private development on the southern portion of the block, and construction would start within 24 months after the developer purchases the property from the county. 

The private development would be mixed use and include amenities that would enhance downtown livability. If multi-family housing is included, Cape Fear Development has committed to make at least 5% of the multifamily units available for workforce housing purposes for at least 10 years.

The private development will have the potential to generate additional property taxes, sales taxes and room occupancy taxes for the county.

12. What are the benefits of a Public Private Partnership for this project?

The Public Private Partnership (P3) model, which is authorized by the General Assembly, guarantees the county has final approval in how the entire project and block is developed. Not only can the county direct the public facility and uses on the site, it is also able to determine how the remaining land is used. 

Under the new development agreement with Cape Fear Development, the P3 for this site would bring compatible and timely private investment to the block, with amenities and a mix of uses that would enhance downtown livability, such as a grocery store, housing, boutique hotels, restaurants, retail and more. the private investment will potentially generate property taxes, sales taxes and room occupancy taxes for the county.

With this approach, the county can guarantee the entire block is a compatible with the public purposes on the site and fit the county’s vision, and that it was built out in a timely way that benefits the general public.

13. What are the next steps for the project?

May 2023: A new development agreement for the redevelopment of the county-owned block in Downtown Wilmington bounded by Chestnut, Grace, Second and North Third streets was presented to the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners at its meeting on Monday, May 15. Following a public hearing, Commissioners unanimously voted to approve the new agreement.

May-July 2023: Staff and the development team will finalize the design plans and the construction project will be put out for bid in May. Then, a revised development agreement that incorporates the results of the bid process with final financials will be presented to Commissioners for approval in July 2023.  

September 2023: If the final agreement with financials is approved, the county would submit the final financial arrangement to the Local Government Commission for review and approval at its September meeting. Construction on the library and museum facility would then begin shortly after, if approved to move forward. 

14. What is the history of Project Grace?

The county began exploring the possibilities of a new library and museum facility on the downtown county-owned block in 2017, with a market and site analysis. A request for proposals was development in 2018 and Zimmer Development was the developer chosen to partner with the county. From 2019-2021, the development team reviewed all possible site alternatives and then entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Zimmer Development in March 2021. 

From the summer of 2021 through spring of 2022, the development team and county staff conducted a discovery phase, completed schematic design, and finalized construction documents. In the fall of 2022, the financial structure (which was a lease-to-own model) was not approved and Zimmer Development withdrew from the project. The county purchased the full construction-ready plans from Zimmer Development at that time.

In late 2022, Cape Fear Development began reviewing the plans and possibilities of the project to determine if they would be interested in partnering with the county. In March of 2023, they expressed a desire to enter into a development agreement with the county and the Commissioners asked staff to negotiate new terms for a revived project.

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Recycling & Solid Waste - Food Waste Composting

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1. How Is The Compost Created?

The county’s composting system is unique because it utilizes the “in vessel” method of composting - all of the material is composted in an enclosed vessel in which temperature, airflow, and turning are managed in a controlled environment.

The compost generated is a mixture of ground yard waste, ground untreated dimensional lumber and pallets, food waste, and animal bedding. The recipe was carefully selected to provide the right balance of nutrients and consistency. The compost is processed to eliminate potential pathogens and destroy weed seeds and fungus spores and screened to remove any potential contaminants or oversize material.

Compost is an amazing soil amendment that helps plants retain moisture, encourages strong root growth, provides a slow, steady release of nutrients, and inoculates the soil against some common pests and diseases. Soils amended with compost support healthier plants that can withstand long periods of drought while producing higher yields of fruits and vegetables. Using compost instead of fertilizers helps reduce pollutants found in stormwater runoff that affect our natural wetlands, rivers, and streams.

2. How long does it take to make compost?

Typically, it takes about 30 days for compost to fully cure - 3 days in the composting unit and 4 weeks in the curing bunkers.

3. How Is The Compost Used?

Currently, the compost is used for New Hanover County Parks and Gardens, including Airlie Gardens and the New Hanover County Arboretum. The compost is not available for purchase for commercial use.

Community organizations, gardeners, and non-profits interested in using the compost for personal use, research, education, or community gardens can email Environmental Management Director Joe Suleyman.

4. Can I get some of the compost for my home garden?

Yes!  Please contact the Department at (910) 798-4400 to set up an appointment.  Remember that you will need a tarp to secure your load if transporting compost in the bed of a pickup truck!

5. Where Do I Bring Food Waste?

The composter is located at the New Hanover County Landfill, 5210 US Highway 421, Wilmington, NC 28402. Residents and businesses can bring food waste to the composter during normal business hours free of charge. In addition, residents can bring food waste to the county’s HazWagon on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

When you bring food waste to the landfill, follow these simple steps:

1. Weigh in at the truck scale, then go straight until the road curves to the left.
2. Proceed past the yard waste processing area until you see the composting area on your right.
3. If you have small quantities of food waste, drop it directly into the gray containers marked “Food Waste.”
4. If you have large quantities of food waste, drop it directly into the recessed pit area of the composter.
5. Once you have unloaded, proceed back to the truck scales to weigh out.

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Register of Deeds - FAQs

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1. Can you recommend an attorney?

No, North Carolina law prohibits the Register of Deeds from giving legal advice or referrals.

2. Can anyone obtain information on file at the Register of Deeds office?

Yes, all records filed in the Register of Deeds office are public records. Anyone can view and obtain a copy of a public document in the office.

3. Can I add a fraud alert to my records?

To set up your free Fraud Alert, you can click on the link https://fraudalert.bislandrecords.com/index.php?county=newhanover&state=nc, this will take you directly to our website to fill out the information requested along with your email, or go to our home website at  www.registerofdeeds.nhcgov.com, click on the Fraud Alert box and fill out the information requested. 

In the event a document is recorded in your name, you will get an email with a copy of the document at no cost to you.

4. Can I come in and fill out a form to register my business name?

Yes, as a courtesy to our customers, we have gone to the Secretary of States website and printed the form needed to register a business name.

5. Can you tell me how much a piece of property sold for?

The Register of Deeds can only provide the amount of the excise tax stamp affixed to the deed at the time it was recorded.

6. What are excise stamps?

A tax of $1.00 per $500.00 (more easily calculated as $2.00 per $1,000.00) of the purchase price which is mandated by North Carolina state law to be paid by the grantor or seller.

7. Can you tell me if a lien has been removed from a piece of property?

You will need to consult an attorney. The Register or Deeds office does not perform title searches.

8. Can you tell me when my house was built and its square footage?

No, that information may be obtained from the Tax Department.

9. Do you file Wills?

No, they are filed in the Estate division of the Clerk of Superior Court’s office.

10. How can I obtain a copy of the map of my property?

The Register of Deeds office has subdivision and condominium plats on file, not individual surveys.

11. How do I obtain a copy of my divorce?

Divorces are on file in the Clerk of Superior Court’s office.

12. How do I remove or add a name to a deed?

You will need to have a new deed drawn up and filed. It is recommended that you consult an attorney.

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Register of Deeds - Passports

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1. Do I have to make an appointment to get a passport?

Everyone needing passport services are required to make an appointment in advance.  If you are getting a passport for the first time or if your passport was issued more than 15 years ago (expired more than 5 years) then you will need to apply for a new passport in person. All minors under the age of 16 and anyone who has not obtained a passport as an adult will also need to apply in person. 

If you need a passport quickly, visit travel.state.gov to read about urgent travel options.

Renewals for adults on unexpired passports or passports that expired less than 5 years ago need to be submitted by mail. Please note, we cannot process a renewal in our office, but we will be glad to review your renewal application before you submit it. Visit the State Department's Passport Renewal page for more information on renewals.

2. What documents do I need to get a passport?

For a complete list of all documents and information needed, always check the U.S. Department of State's website. 

Adults (18+)

Most new adult applicants will need the following documentation:

• Completed form DS-11
• Proof of U.S. citizenship (a certified copy of a birth certificate, naturalization papers, etc. along with copies of documents.)
• Photo Identification (such as a driver's license with photo copy of front and back on same page)
• A recent photo (there are very specific requirements listed online; photo services are available in our office for $15)
• A check or money order made out to the U.S. Department of State for their fees owed
• A $35 execution fee payable by cash, check or card

Young Adults (16-17)

Most young adult applicants will need the following documentation:

• Completed form DS-11
• Proof of U.S. citizenship (a certified copy of a birth certificate, naturalization papers, etc. along with copies of documents.)
• Photo Identification (such as a driver's license with photo copy of front and back on same page)
• Proof of parental consent from at least one parent (the easiest way is for a parent to appear in-person with their child)
• A recent photo (there are very specific requirements listed online; photo services are available in our office for $15)
• A check or money order made out to the U.S. Department of State for their fees owed
• A $35 execution fee payable by cash or card

Children (under 16)

Most children under age 16 will need the following documentation:

• Completed form DS-11
• Proof of U.S. citizenship (a certified copy of a birth certificate, naturalization papers, etc. along with copies of documents)
• Photo Identification from both parents (such as a driver's license with copy of front and back on one sheet)
• Proof of parental consent from both parents (the easiest way is for the parents to appear in-person with their child)
• A recent photo (there are very specific requirements listed online; photo services are available in our office for $15)
• A check or money order made out to the U.S. Department of State for their fees owed
• A $35 execution fee payable by cash or card

3. How can I make an appointment?

Click the Passport Application Appointment link. Our hours of operation for passports are Monday through Friday, 7:30am until 3:30pm.

4. How much does it cost to get a passport?

Always check the State Department's official travel site for a complete list of along with copies of documents front and back shown on same page. . 

Each passport requires an application fee paid by check or money order only made out to the U.S. Department of State. These fees vary depending on the age of the applicant, the speed of processing, and the type of document ordered. Adult fees start at $130 and minor fees start at $100.

A separate fee of $35 is paid to our office by cash, check or card. Photo services are also available for an additional $15 per photo.

5. How long does it take to get a passport?

Always check the U.S Department of State's official website for the most up-to-date processing times.

• Standard: 10-13 weeks
• Expedited: 7-9 weeks and an extra $60

Once your passport application is received by the Passport Agency (not our office), routine processing takes between 10 and 13 weeks. Expedited processing is taking 7 to 9 weeks. This time frame does not include shipping time from our office to the Passport Agency or shipping time to your home from the Passport Agency.

If you have documented, urgent travel plans that require a passport in less than 13 weeks, look for the State Department's urgent travel information to see if you qualify for faster processing. 

6. Do you accept walk-ins?

Appointments are required in advance.

7. How can I get my passport faster?

The Department of State has options for getting your passport quickly in emergency or urgent travel situations. Check the Get My Passport Fast page to review your options.

Additionally, your U.S. Congressional Representative or Senator may be able to help you obtain a passport sooner if your plans are urgent, typically less than 14 days away. 

These urgent and emergency processing times are reserved for people with true, documented travel needs and may not be available to you without documented travel plans.

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Senior Resource Center

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1. Where is the Senior Center located?

Senior Resource Center (Main Location / Multipurpose Center)

Location: 2222 S. College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm, Thursdays open until 7pm for limited activities (except holidays, special evening, and weekend events)

Castle Hayne Baptist Church (Nutrition Satellite Location)

Location: 4544 Parmele Road, Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-1:30PM with lunch being served from 11:15AM-12:00PM.

Katie B. Hines Senior Center (Nutrition Satellite Location)

Location: 308 Cape Fear Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Hours: Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-2:00PM with lunch being served from 12:00PM-1:00PM.

2. What are the Senior Resource Center hours of operation?

The Main Location is open Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM, with extended hours on Thursday 8:00AM-7:00PM.

The Satellite Locations hours: 

Castle Hayne Baptist Church is open Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-1:30PM with lunch being served from 11:15AM-12:00PM.

Katie B. Hines Senior Center is open Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-2:00PM with lunch being served from 12:00PM-1:00PM.

*Please check the Holiday Calendar for scheduled office closures.

3. Is there a fee to join the Senior Resource Center?

No - membership is FREE!  All you need to do is fill out our Participant Registration form. This can be done online or onsite. Once you are a member, you can begin to apply for other programs or our classes. There are many no-cost activities and programs offered in the centers. There are some nominal costs associated with structured classes. These costs are noted in our printed and class catalog.

ONLINE REGISTRATION | JOIN TODAY!

4. How old do you have to be to become a member?

You must be 55 years of age or older participate in most center programs and activities. Some activities must be limited to members 60 years or older, due to funding agency regulations. An example would be our Congregate Meal lunch program.

5. Do I have to live in New Hanover County to participate in activities or services at the Senior Resource Center?

NO! All older adults, 55+, can visit our center. Once you become a member, you will be able to participate in activities, attend classes and receive services. Our team of Social Workers are familiar with local organizations and services, but are also equipped to find state and national resources as well.

6. Are all services and activities free?

Our goal is to provide the majority of our programs to seniors at no charge. Over 75% of our activities ARE provided at no charge, but some classes require a fee. We do have a scholarship opportunity that covers a set amount for the year. Visit the front desk for the form.  

7. What if I can not afford classes?

The New Hanover County Senior Resource Center has a yearly scholarship program. The availability of this program depends on funding we receive and is available on a first-come, first serve basis, until the funds are expended. A scholarship application must be completed by the member and submitted to a staff member for approval.

8. Do we offer specialized care?

No, we are unable to provide this assistance. Our primary focus is to offer a comfortable atmosphere for independent Senior Citizens to come meet and socialize with other Senior's. However, we can provide information for special adult day care.

9. What type of services does the Senior Center offer?

Our goal is to provide wellness and safety information, educational opportunities for lifelong learning, leisure recreational activities, and referral services. We seek to offer programs that are physically, mentally, emotionally, culturally, and socially beneficial to our participants and provide the opportunity for them to age actively. View the Services page or Calendars for more details.
VIEW SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR

10. Do the different centers offer different activities for seniors?

Yes. Although all of our Senior Centers serve to promote healthy, active lifestyles for adults 55 and older, each center is unique with regard to the variety of classes, individual instructors and activities that they offer.

11. If I join one center in New Hanover County, do I need to apply to other center locations to attend there as well?

Once you complete your initial Membership Registration, you are a member in all of New Hanover County’s senior centers! This means that you will be able to attend any of our Senior Centers within New Hanover County. In addition, you will also be able to register online for classes that are offered at any center in the future.

12. How to I access the online portal?

1. Call our registration line at 910-798-6450 and leave a message letting us know you would like to be registered for the online portal.
2. You will receive an email with a temporary password to log-in to the SERVTracker Client Portal.
3. Next you will be directed to client.servtracker.com/#/login. This is a secure external link to our membership software SERVTracker.
4. Enter your username(email address) and temporary password. You will then be prompted to reset your temporary password.
5. You can now register for classes and view your scheduled classes. To cancel a class you will need to contact us directly at 910-798-6400.

13. Can seniors who need assistance come with a caregiver?

Yes. A caregiver may accompany a member of the Senior Resource Center to the center as long as the person can meet the membership requirements with assistance. The caregiver must register with the center and provide written verification of their position as the member’s caregiver from either the member, member’s family, physician or, if applicable, from the Administrator of the senior living facility where the member resides. Please note: If a member receives or requires the assistance of a Caregiver for help with daily living activities, that member must have a caregiver present with them at all times when attending the center. Please direct any other questions regarding caregivers to a staff member.

14. How old do you have to be to have lunch in the center?

 New Hanover County seniors must be 60 years or order to participate in the onsite congregate nutrition program. A client registration form must also be completed or on file.

15. What's on the Menu today?

VIEW MEAL CALENDAR

16. Do you serve restricted meals, such as meals for Diabetics etc.?

No, we do not have special meals. Our meals meet the state guidelines and provide 1/3 of daily food requirements.  

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Senior Resource Center - Vita Tax Information

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1. Do I have to live in New Hanover County to have my taxes prepared at these locations?

No.

2. Do I have to be an older adult to get my taxes prepared at these locations?

Although our focus is to serve older adults, we will prepare taxes for residents of any age.

3. I am filing joint with my spouse. Do both of us need to be present at the physical location?

#1 Option: Face-to Face services. Yes, both parties need to be present during tax preparation.

#2 Option: Drop-off/Virtual services. No, if both parties have signed all required forms and the person dropping off documentation has a copy of both photo IDs and proof of social security to present at time of drop off. 

4. I am filing joint with my spouse. Do both of us need to be there to pick up our return once it is completed?

Yes, both parties must sign the Form 8879 in order for our preparers to e-file on your behalf. In special circumstances clients doing the Virtual Option may come in separately to sign. 

5. Will a passport work for photo identification?

Yes.

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Sheriff's Office - Animal Services Unit

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1. What happens to animals that Animal Services Unit (ASU) picks up?

Animals surrendered at the shelter or picked up in the field as strays are held at our facility for three or five working days, Sundays and Holidays are not included.

The animals are held three working days, if the animal had no apparent owner.

The animals are held five working days if the animal seems to have had an owner, for example, a neutered male, a collar, recently clipped, etc.

Animals surrendered by the owner become the immediate property of NHC.

After the holding period, during which time the owner may redeem their pet, the animals become NHC property. At this point, shelter staff determines which ones may be placed for adoption.

The animals are given a physical exam, vaccinated, dewormed, and checked for open wounds, which may have been inflicted by a potential rabies vector.

The ones who are adoptable are placed in our adoption area (no specified time limit), awaiting a new home. Unfortunately, far more animals are surrendered for placement than those seeking new companions.

2. What do I do if I find a stray animal?

County ordinance requires that all stray animals be surrendered to ASU within 24 hours of capture. If the individual desires to keep the pet, they may advertise in the local newspaper with the largest circulation for five consecutive days. This advertisement must be started within 72 hours of claiming the pet. If the initial owner does not claim their pet after ten days, the individual who placed the advertisement shall be deemed the legal owner.

3. Do you adopt animals?

Yes, between the hours of 11 am to 3:45 pm, Monday through Friday and Saturday 8 to Noon. The adoption fee is $60, which includes pet neutering (mandatory), vaccinations including rabies (dog or cat), deworming for hooks and rounds, and a collar and a leash/cat-box. See the Pet Harbor website to view available pets.

4. When does my pet need its rabies vaccination? County registration?

The first vaccination is done when your pet reaches four months of age. This vaccination is good for one year. The next vaccination given is will be good for three years. You are required by NC State law to have this done, even if your pet never goes outside. You are also required by NHC Ordinance to pay a licensing fee every year. This fee is renewable along with your rabies vaccination. Kennel fees are available if you meet the stipulations.

5. Where do you have jurisdiction?

ASU has jurisdiction throughout New Hanover County, excluding Wrightsville Beach. Wilmington residents fall under the ordinance as well as county residents. We do assist Wrightsville Beach in certain cases.

6. How many pets may I own?

No restrictions on county residence.  Residence within city limits refer to Chapter 6 section 2.2 (permits for kennels/meaning 5 or more dogs). View the Municode Website to learn more.

7. What happens if my pet bites someone?

Your pet will need to be quarantined for ten days, because no vaccine is 100% effective. This is done for the victim's protection, to allow ASU personnel to monitor the animal for symptoms of rabies.

Pets with a current rabies vaccination at the time of the bite may be confined at their home, if a suitable area is available. An Animal Services Officer will periodically check the pet until the confinement is over.

Pets without a current rabies vaccination at the time of the bite must be confined at ASU, a veterinary hospital, or an approved kennel. (Owner must pay all kenneling fees.)

Pets running loose at the time of the bite must be confined at ASU, a veterinary hospital, or an approved kennel, regardless of rabies vaccination status. (Owner must pay all kenneling fees.)

Pets with a current rabies vaccination at the time of the bite may be confined at their home, if a suitable area is available. An Animal Services Officer will periodically check the pet until the confinement is over.

8. Why are cats allowed to run loose?

Although cats are more difficult to keep contained than most dogs; they fall under the same ordinance restrictions as dogs. Responsible pet owners find appropriate methods to protect their pet’s welfare.

9. What about dogs running loose?

Dogs running loose are not allowed throughout the county. There is a county-wide leash law enforced, including the City of Wilmington.

10. Why can’t I tie my dog out in my yard?

It is a violation of the county ordinance to keep your pet tied out in your yard.

11. How is a dog declared dangerous/potentially dangerous?

There are three criteria that a dog may be declared under the law:

• Inflicted a bite on a person that resulted in broken bones or broken skin or required cosmetic surgery or hospitalization
• Killed or inflicted severe injury upon a domestic animal when not on the owner’s real property
• Approached a person when not on the owner’s real property in a vicious or terrorizing manner in an apparent attitude of attack

Victims and dog owners should inquire at the office to complete paperwork for the Initial Panel to review in these determinations.

12. What are the differences between ASU and the Humane Society?

ASU is a government agency for NHC. We have officers that are available to respond to customer complaints, even in emergency situations. We are required to accept all animals surrendered by NHC residents.

The Humane Society is a private group that operates an animal shelter and a public regional spay/neuter facility. They have the right to refuse animals, since they are a private organization. Call them at 910-763-6692.

The two groups work together for the benefit of the animals in the county.

13. Where are you (ASU) located?

ASU is located at 180 Division Drive. Division Drive runs from Castle Hayne Road to 23rd Street just north of the entrance to the airport.

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Social Services - Abuse, Neglect, & Dependency

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1. What is child abuse and neglect?

North Carolina General Statute (NC GS 7B-101) defines what is child abuse and child neglect.

Physical Abuse is defined as any child younger than 18 whose parent, guardian, custodian, or caregiver:

• Inflicts or allows to be inflicted upon the child a serious physical injury by other than accidental means
• Creates or allows to be created a substantial risk of serious physical injury to the child by other than accidental means
• Uses or allows to be used upon the child cruel or grossly inappropriate procedures or cruel and grossly inappropriate devices to modify behavior

Sexual Abuse is defined as any child younger than 18 whose parent, guardian, custodian, or caregiver commits, permits, or encourages the commission of a violation of the following laws regarding sexual offenses by, with, or upon the child:

• First and second degree rape or sexual offense
• Rape of a child by an adult offender
• Sexual act by a custodian
• Crime against nature or incest
• Preparation of obscene photographs, slides, or motion pictures of the child
• Employing or permitting the child to assist in a violation of the obscenity laws
• Dissemination of obscene material to the child
• Displaying or disseminating material harmful to the child
• First and second degree sexual exploitation of the child
• Promoting the prostitution of the child
• Taking indecent liberties with the child

Emotional Abuse is defined by any child younger than 18 years whose parent, guardian, custodian, or caregivers creates or allows to be created serious emotional damage to the child. Serious emotional damage is evidenced by a child's severe anxiety, depression, withdrawal, or aggressive behavior toward himself or others.

Neglect is defined by any child younger than 18:

• Who does not receive proper care, supervision, or discipline from his or her parent, guardian, custodian, or caregiver
• Who is not provided necessary medical or remedial care
• Who lives in an environment injurious to his or her welfare
• Who has been placed for care or adoption in violation of law

2. How can I recognize potential child abuse?

The following may indicate the presence of child abuse or neglect. There are many reasons a child may not want to go home on a particular day or may be overly compliant when they are trying to please a favorite teacher or trusted adult. However, when you have a cluster of two or more of these, this should raise a red flag to at least talk to the child and or parent, or potentially call your Child Protective Services, depending on the circumstances. It is important to remember that issues related solely to poverty are not considered child maltreatment issues.  

For the child:  

• Sudden changes in behavior or school performance  
• Displays overt sexualized behavior or exhibits sexual knowledge that is inconsistent with their age  
• Has not received medical attention for a physical injury that has been brought to the parents’ attention  
• Has learning problems that cannot be attributed to specific physical or psychological causes  
• Is always watchful, as though preparing for something bad to happen  
• Is overly compliant, an overachiever or too responsible  
• Comes to school early, stays late and does not want to go home  
• Has unexplained burns, bites, bruises, broken bones or black eyes  
• Has bruises or marks in non-prominent, “fleshy” areas of the body (for example, inside of biceps or behind the knees)  
• Has fading bruises or other marks noticeable after an absence from school  
• Seems frightened of their parents/caregivers and protests or cries when it is time to go home from school  
• Shrinks at the approach of adults  
• Reports injury by a parent or another adult caregiver 

For the parent or other caregiver:  

• Shows little concern for the child, rarely responding to the school’s requests for information, conferences or home visits  
• Denies the existence of or blames the child for problems in school or at home  
• Asks the classroom teacher to use harsh physical discipline if the child misbehaves  
• Sees the child as entirely bad, worthless or burdensome  
• Demands perfection, or a level of physical or academic performance the child cannot achieve  
• Offers conflicting, unconvincing or no explanation for the child’s injury  
• Describes the child as “evil” or in some other very negative way  
• Is abusing alcohol, prescription drugs or illegal drugs, and that abuse is having an adverse impact on the child  
• Uses harsh physical discipline with the child  
• Has a history of abuse as a child 

3. What happens after a report is made?

Every child abuse, neglect, and or dependency report that is made to the Department is documented and screened to determine if the allegations meet the legal definition of abuse, neglect, or dependency. The Department can only accept reports that are made against a child's parent, guardian, custodian, or caretaker. If the Department receives a report that meets the criteria of abuse, neglect, or dependency, but it is not against the parents, guardian, custodian, or caretaker, the report is then referred to the appropriate law enforcement entity. If the report does not meet criteria for abuse, neglect, or dependency the Department documents the reasons it does not and the person who made the report will receive a letter. If the allegations meet criteria, then a formal assessment is begun.

4. What is an assessment?

Once a report of child abuse, neglect, or dependency has been accepted by the Department, it is then assigned to a social worker to complete an assessment. There are two types of approaches to completing assessments. When the report alleges any type of abuse or serious neglect, it is assigned as an investigative assessment. This is a more forensic approach with families. On abuse cases, the social worker typically has to respond and interview the child and parents or caretakers immediately or within 24 hours of the allegations being reported to the Department. The social worker will work closely with law enforcement during the investigative assessment. When the report alleges neglect, it is assigned as a family assessment. The social worker typically has 72 hours from the time the report is made to the Department to respond to the family. In family assessments, the social worker typically calls the family first to inform them the Department received a report and meets and talks to the family together.

Regardless of whether the report is accepted as an investigative assessment or a family assessment, our most important responsibility in working with families is ensuring that children are safe. In all cases, we develop safety plans with families that identify any safety issues that may be present for the children and make a plan with the family to reduce the risk to the children. All assessments include the social worker observing the environment where the child resides and assessing the child's medical, physical, mental health, educational, and emotional needs. Family input, accessing community and family resources, and safety planning are very important in keeping children safe. The family's cooperation and consent is critical and helps in this process. Our goals are always to keep children safe and keep families together whenever possible.

At the conclusion of our assessments, the Department makes a finding of whether or not abuse, neglect or dependency is present and if continued services through the Department are needed to ensure the safety of the children.

5. What happens after the assessment is completed?

If abuse or neglect, as defined by North Carolina law, is not found, the child protective services case is closed. Child Protective Services would not have further involvement unless another report was received by the Department and screened in for an assessment.

If abuse or neglect, as defined by North Carolina law, is found, the case is then typically transferred to another social worker to work with the family to resolve the issues that led to the abuse and/or neglect. The primary concern continues to be the child's safety and protection. Once a substantiation or finding of services needed is made, then the Department provides what we call CPS In-Home Services. These are legally mandated services and they are considered involuntary services. These are the most intensive services and contacts with the family that is provided by the Department. The goal is to maintain the children safely in the family home. The social worker works with the family to determine what activities need to be completed to reduce risk to the children and ensure safety. One strategy we use in working with families is setting up Child and Family Team Meetings. The goal of these meetings is to assist the family and their support system in making a safe plan for their children. The CPS In-Home social worker coordinates interventions and services that focus on child safety and protection and family preservation. The Department is responsible for making reasonable efforts to maintain the child safely in the home and our goal is always to keep families together, but when safety in the child's own home cannot be assured, the Department is mandated to take immediate action to protect the child. This sometimes leads to placing children outside of the home or in the Department's custody and into foster care. Bringing a child into foster care is used only as a last resort to protect children from serious harm. To place a child into foster care, the Department must file a petition with Juvenile Court alleging abuse, neglect, or dependency.

6. How do I report suspected child abuse?

• What Should You do If You Suspect Child Abuse or Neglect:
  • The child abuse hotline number is 910-798-3420.
  • If you need to make a report after 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or on the weekend, or a holiday please call 911 and ask to speak to the social worker on duty. 
  • Our office is located at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC, 28402. 
  • NOTE: North Carolina Law requires that anyone who suspects that a child is being abused or neglected, must report their concerns to the Department of Social Services, Child Protective Services.

Anyone can make a report of child abuse and/or child neglect by calling, writing, or visiting the Child Protective Services Unit at the New Hanover County Department of Social Services. You can make a child abuse or neglect report 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• The social worker taking your report will listen to your concerns and document all the information that is given. 
• You do not have to have proof that a child is being abused or neglected, just a reasonable suspicion. 
• Reporters of child abuse and neglect are protected by the law. 
• Social workers are unable to release the name of the reporter to anyone, unless ordered by the Court.
• Although you can make a report anonymously, it is helpful to provide your name in case the social worker needs to follow up with you for additional information. 
• It is helpful to have the following information when making a child protective services report:
  • Name, address, and age of the child/children
  • Name and address of the child's parents or caretakers
  • The child's condition, including any injuries or extent of the maltreatment
  • Any information about weapons in the home, alcohol, or drug abuse
  • Even if you do not have all of the above information, do not hesitate to make a report if you believe a child is being abused or neglected.

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Social Services - Adult Services

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1. My Mother needs to be placed in a Nursing Home. What can I do?

First, we talk about why the person feels that their parent needs to go to a nursing home. Does the mother have the capacity to make decisions for herself? We then talk about the placement process and refer them to the customer service unit to obtain a placement packet.

For more information call 910-798-3719

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Social Services - Child Care

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1. Can you recommend a Child Care provider?

Smart Start of New Hanover County (SSNHC) can provide you with information on how to select quality child care. They can also put you in touch with the regional resource who can give you a list of potential child care sites that meet your specific needs. 

SSNHC can be reached at 910-815-3731 or by visiting 
 3534 South College Road
 Suite F
 Wilmington, NC 28412

2. What is the Child Care Subsidy program?

The Child Care Subsidy program uses state and federal funds to provide subsidized child care services to eligible families.  

3. Do I qualify for the Child Care Subsidy program?

You may be eligible to receive child care assistance if:

• You are working or are attempting to find work
• You are in school or in a job training program
• Your child is receiving child protective services
• Your child needs care to support child welfare services or if your family is experiencing a crisis
• Your child has developmental needs
• Meet the income and policy guidelines

4. What are the income limits for Child Care Subsidy?

The Initial Maximum Income Eligibility Limits for Subsidized Child Care Assistance changed on July 01, 2022.

For child care, there are two income limits. One for children 5 and under also all children with special needs, and the other for children 6-12.

200% Federal Poverty Level – used at initial application  (All children ages 0-5, and All children with special needs)

Parent Fee Percentage	10% of Maximum Gross Monthly Income
Family Size	1	2	3	4	5	6
Maximum Gross Monthly Income	$2,265	$3,052	$3,838	$4,625	$5,412	$6,198

 

Family Size	7	8	9	10	11	12
Maximum Gross Monthly Income	$6,985	$7,772	$8,558	$9,345	$10,132	$10,918

 

133% Federal Poverty Level – used at initial application; (All children ages 6-12, No children with special needs)

Parent Fee Percentage	10% of Maximum Gross Monthly Income
Family Size	1	2	3	4	5	6
Maximum Gross Monthly Income	$1,506	$2,029	$2,552	$3,076	$3,599	$4,122

 

Family Size	7	8	9	10	11	12
Maximum Gross Monthly Income	$4,645	$5,168	$5,691	$6,214	$6,738	$7,261

5. How do I apply for assistance in paying for my Child Care expenses?

• Phone by calling 910-798-3500, Option 4
• Call and request an application be mailed to you. Applications can be returned by mail. Mailing address is 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401 or fax 910-798-7824. 
• In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401 

6. Will DSS pay for transportation to and from providers?

No.

7. How do I become a Child Care provider?

Stop by Smart Start of New Hanover County 

3534 South College Road
Suite F
Wilmington, NC 28412

To pick up a free child care licensing packet for potential family child care providers. Smart Start of New Hanover County can also provide you with general information if you are interested in starting a child care center. You may also obtain information at the North Carolina Web Site: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/providers/provider-info/child-care

8. What if I have other questions about my child?

Contact or visit Smart Start of New Hanover County for free and confidential information and referrals about young children. 910-815-3731

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Social Services - Child Protective Services-Investigations

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1. As a reporter of abuse or neglect, can I be anonymous and still get information as to the outcome of an investigation?

Yes, you can report abuse and neglect anonymously. If you choose to share your name, it is confidential and can only be released by court order.

2. Can you come get my out of control teen? I can’t handle him/her anymore.

Parents are responsible for their children until they are 18. We will be happy to review counseling resources with you.

3. Do you have the right to talk to my children without my permission?

Yes.  The State mandates any child, 12 months or older is to be interviewed alone, at every contact, but the social worker.

If any person obstructs or interferes with an investigation, the Director may file a petition requesting an order directing the person to cease obstruction or interference.  Obstruction or interference includes refusing to allow the social worker to interview the child in private.

4. How do I report that a child is being abused or neglected?

Call New Hanover County Department of Social Services during normal business hours at 910-798-3420. After hours, on weekends and holidays call 911.

5. How is child abuse/neglect defined?

When children are abused, they have been seriously hurt, either physically or emotionally. This may also include any type of sexual abuse. When children are neglected, they have not received proper care or supervision. This may include children who do not receive necessary medical attention, who are inadequately fed or clothed, or who are inappropriately disciplined. Neglect also includes children who are left alone for long periods of time. We assess each situation on a case by case basis.

6. When should a Children’s Protective Services report be made?

Reporting child abuse or neglect is the first step in protecting children from further harm. If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, you should file a report with your local Department of Social Services. If it is an emergency, contact your local law enforcement agency. Your information can be given anonymously, if desired.

7. Who is the reporter? I have the right to know.

The reporter’s name remains confidential unless the department is court-ordered to release that information.

8. Why do you have to talk to my children alone?

If a child has the capacity for speech, the child must be interviewed, preferably in private and, under no circumstances, in the presence of the person or persons alleged to have caused or allowed abuse or neglect.

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Social Services - Food and Nutrition Services

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1. What are Food and Nutrition benefits?

Food and Nutrition benefits, also known as the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), help low-income individuals purchase food. Authorized Food and Nutrition benefits are placed into an account. The benefits are accessed at authorized merchants using an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.  

2. Do I qualify for Food and Nutrition benefits?

You may be eligible for Food and Nutrition Services if your total income falls below the appropriate gross income limits for your household size. Eligibility workers determine which income limit applies to your household.

Income Chart (October 2022)

HOUSEHOLD SIZE	130% MAXIMUM GROSS INCOME LIMIT	200% MAXIMUM GROSS INCOME LIMIT	MAXIMUM BENEFIT ALLOTMENT
1	$1,473	$2,266	$281
2	$1,984	$3,052	$516
3	$2,495	$3,840	$740
4	$3,007	$4,626	$939
5	$3,518	$5,412	$1,116
6	$4,029	$6,200	$1,339
7	$4,541	$6,986	$1,480
8	$5,052	$7,772	$1,691
Each Additional Member	(+512)	(+788)	(+211)

 

3. How do I apply for Food and Nutrition benefits?

This federal food assistance program is designed to help eligible low-income households buy the food they need for nutritional meals. Verifications are not required to apply but may be addressed or requested during your interview.

• Ways to apply:
• Online at the ePass website
• Phone by calling 910-798-3500, Option 4
• Print and mail the application (English & Spanish) to 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
• Print and fax the application (English & Spanish) to 910-798-7824
• In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
• Applications may be mailed upon request

4. What can I buy with Food and Nutrition Benefits?

Any food for the household, such as:

• Fruits and vegetables;
• Meat, poultry, and fish;
• Dairy products;
• Breads and cereals;
• Other foods such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages; and
• Seeds and plants, which produce food for the household to eat.

Households CANNOT use  benefits to buy:

• Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements. If an item has a Supplement Facts label, it is considered a supplement and is not eligible for SNAP purchase.
• Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up from the store).
• Foods that are hot at the point of sale
• Any nonfood items such as:
  - Pet foods  
  - Cleaning supplies, paper products, and other household supplies.
  - Hygiene items, cosmetics

5. When will my Food and Nutrition benefits go into my account?

Your EBT benefits will be available on the same day each month according to the last digit of your social security number, even if that day is on a weekend or holiday. Benefits are available on the 3rd day of every month if you do not have a Social Security Number.

If your SSN ends in:	Your benefits will be available after 6 a.m. on the:
1	3rd day of every month
2	5th day of every month
3	7th day of every month
4	9th day of every month
5	11th day of every month
6	13th day of every month
7	15th day of every month
8	17th day of every month
9	19th day of every month
0	21st day of every month

6. When will I receive my EBT card?

If your household is eligible, you will receive your EBT card in the mail. Please be mindful that the cards are mailed from out of state and may take 7-10 mail days to receive. 

7. How to I obtain a personal identification number (PIN) and activate my EBT Card?

• Go to www.ebtedge.com and click "More Information" under EBT cardholder. Login and/or register your account.
• Download the ebtEDGE mobile app. the app is available through the Apple Store or Google Play.
• Call  888-622-7328. Follow the prompts, they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

8. What is the EBT Customer Service Number?

The toll-free number is 1-888-622-7328 and they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. or you can go to www.ebtedge.com or download the ebtEDGE mobile app. the app is available through the Apple Store or Google Play.

9. Who do I contact if my EBT card is lost or damaged?

You may contact ebtEdge. The toll-free number is 1-888-622-7328 and they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. or you can go to www.ebtedge.com or download the ebtEDGE mobile app. the app is available through the Apple Store or Google Play. However, if you need a new EBT card and your address has changed, please contact DHHS at 910-798-5000 option 4. 

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Social Services - Foster Care

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1. Who are the Children in DSS custody?

• Children enter foster care due to a number of issues related to abuse, neglect or dependency. 
• Many children in foster care have special needs, including health issues, behavioral issues, special educational needs, and mental health diagnoses.
• Dependent children are those children without an appropriate adult caretaker. 

DSS has the responsibility to work with birth parents and other extended relatives to address safety issues so that children can return home. 

• Although each family's situation is different and a Judge makes the final ruling, the Department of Social Services is required to make a recommendation about a child's long-term plan within one year of the child entering foster care. 
• The Department also makes diligent efforts to identify extended relatives who could care for the child. When that cannot be done, the agency pursues other long-term plans for the child, including adoption.

2. Who are the Foster and Adoptive Resource Families in DSS?

• New Hanover County foster and adoptive parents are your friends, neighbors, and fellow community citizens. Most families who adopt through DSS provide foster care first.
• We find that by the time a child goes through the process of becoming available for adoption, he/she has bonded with the foster parents and many times it is this foster family who adopts the child. There are times when it isn't the right match for the current foster parent to adopt the child and in those cases we look to our other families interested in adoption to make a connection. Our families come from all different backgrounds and live in all communities across the county.
• We have many single parents as well as couples who adopt. 
• Many children who are adopted from foster care qualify for ongoing adoption assistance benefits.
•  For children who are adopted in their teens there is even help for college available.
•  Probably the greatest challenge of adoption from foster care is that it is unknown at the time a child is placed in a home whether the child will later need an adoptive family. 
• The Department's first responsibility is to work with the birth family to alleviate the need for continued foster care and recommend reunification. We don't know what the outcome will be at the time of placement, so our foster families have to be prepared to let go of a child they've grown to love.
• If a foster parent does adopt a child from foster care, the Department helps the foster parent navigate the adoption process. The Department also provides fee services including: preplacement assessments for independent adoptions, and stepparent and relative adoption services for children who are not in the Department's custody.

3. Does Social Services provide financial assistance to foster families?

The Department does provide monthly assistance to help offset the costs of caring for a child in custody. Foster families use these funds to pay for food, clothing, school supplies, field trips, haircuts and other expenses associated with providing a child a safe and enriching home environment. The amount of assistance varies depending on the age of the child.

In addition to monthly assistance, the Department is involved with several programs which provide funding for children to participate in special activities.

4. How do I become a foster parent?

Call us at 910-798-3500 to talk to a foster parent licensing social worker.

5. Is there a need for foster families in New Hanover County?

Yes!

We have more children in foster care than we have homes available to care for them.

6. What happens when a child cannot be placed with a family in New Hanover County?

When a home in New Hanover County is not available, the child must be placed in another county. What that means is a child who has already experienced the trauma of abuse or neglect and then separation from his or her family, must also separate from his/her neighborhood, school, friends, doctors and community. The further a child is from his/her family, the more difficult it is to arrange visits and keep the family connected. We find that even when children have experienced abuse or neglect, most still very much love their family and want to visit parents and siblings.

Of the approximately 300 children in out of home placement, 23% reside with relatives, 38% reside in New Hanover County and 39% reside outside of New Hanover County.

7. What happens when children cannot return to their birth family?

The Department of Social Services has the responsibility to reunite families whenever it is safe to do so. The Department usually works with birth parents toward getting their children back for about a year before pursuing other permanent placement options for the child.

There are times when children cannot return to their parents because of on-going safety issues and there are no other appropriate extended family members to care for the child.

The Department’s first responsibility is to attempt to safely return a child to his/her parents or other family members. If the Department is unable to identify a safe and willing caretaker within the family, we turn to our foster parents to provide a permanent home for the child.

8. What is Foster Care?

Foster families provide a temporary home for children, who for a variety of reasons including abuse, neglect or dependency cannot remain in the home of their parents or guardian and have entered Department of Social Services (DSS) custody.

Relatives who are providing a home for a child in DSS custody can become licensed as foster parents for that child - provided they meet all of the licensing rules- however, most of the time foster parents are people from the community willing to open their heart and home to a child they do not know.

Although designed to be temporary, there are times when a child is unable to return to his or her birth family and foster parents may adopt the children they've grown to love. 

See our FAQs on Adoption from Foster Care for more information.

9. Who takes Care of the Children in Foster Care?

Just like each child in foster care is unique so is each foster family. Foster families, including relatives who chose to license as foster parents, must complete an in-depth licensing process which includes:

• A 30 hour pre-service training course. Families also complete 10 hours of in-service training each year after becoming licensed.
• Multiple background checks
• A home study, including assessment of space, health, and characteristics of all family members and safety conditions of the home.
• Although there is no minimum income, the family must be able to meet their financial obligations.

The list is not all inclusive of foster home licensing requirements. Please contact us to learn more about becoming a foster parent. Call us at 910-798-3566 or email the New Hanover Foster Care.

10. Will the birth parent know the foster parents?

Yes. Department of Social Services supports a philosophy called "Shared Parenting" where foster and birth families work together for the support of a child. Some examples of Shared parenting would be foster and birth parents attending school meetings together, participating in agency meetings and exchanging photographs so that the child feels connected with all the adults in his/her life. Foster parents can be good mentors for birth parents as well. Potential foster parents learn about shared parenting at length during the pre-service training class (MAPP- Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting).

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Social Services - Foster Care/Adoptions

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1. What information can be released from an adoption file?

Adoption files in North Carolina are not open to the public. Only non-identifying information and any health history that might be available can be shared with an adoptee.

2. What is the process for adopting a child?

The first step in adopting a child is to contact your local Department of Social Services. In New Hanover County, call 910-798-3475 to set up an appointment. A social worker will meet with you to discuss your goals and desires, and will direct you toward the next step in the adoption process

3. Who can apply to become a foster parent?

Anyone who is 21 years or older, has a safe home, source of income, and has patience and love for children can apply to become a foster parent. They should contact their local Department of Social Services. In New Hanover County, call 910-798-3566 regarding the application and training process.

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Social Services - LIEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program)

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1. What is the low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)?

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally-funded program that provides a one-time vendor payment to help eligible households pay their heating bills. Benefits are paid directly to energy providers who have an approved energy provider agreement on file with the county. Assistance towards your heating provider includes electric, gas, heating oil, coal, and/or wood. 

2. How do I apply for LIEAP?

• You may be automatically eligible if your households contained a person aged 60 or older, or an individual receiving disability benefits and services through the NC. Division of Aging and Adult Services, received LIEAP last year (2021/2022) and currently receives Food and Nutrition Benefits. You may call 910-798-3000 option 4 to obtain more information. 

All other households:  

• Beginning December 1, Households including a person aged 60 or older or disabled persons receiving services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services are eligible to sign up for assistance 
• All other households may apply from January 1^st – March 31^st or until funds are exhausted, whichever occurs first.   

•  Ways to apply:
  • Online at the ePass website
  • Phone by calling 910-798-3500, Option 4
  • Print and mail the application to 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
  • Print and fax the application to 910-798-7824
  • In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
  • Applications may be mailed upon request

3. How do I qualify?

There are several factors to be eligible, including gross income limits. 

4. If eligible, when will I receive a payment?

If eligible, the vendor that provides your heating source will receive a payment in 6-8 weeks from the time your application was approved. 

5. When are applications taken for LIEAP?

• You may be automatically eligible if your households contained a person aged 60 or older, or an individual receiving disability benefits and services through the NC. Division of Aging and Adult Services, received LIEAP last year (2021/2022) and currently receives Food and Nutrition Benefits. You may call 910-798-3000 option 4 to obtain more information. 

All other households:  

• Beginning December 1, Households including a person aged 60 or older or disabled persons receiving services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services are eligible to sign up for assistance 
• All other households may apply from January 1^st – March 31^st or until funds are exhausted, whichever occurs first.   

6. Who do I contact to inquire about LIEAP?

Contact the New Hanover County Department of Social Services by calling 910-798-3500 option 4.

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Social Services - Medicaid

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1. Can I get a check along with Medicaid?

Medicaid pays the medical provider directly. No payment is made to the recipient. Persons residing in Adult Care Homes (often called rest homes) may be eligible for a check under the Special Assistance Program to help pay for their monthly cost of care in the home. Clients who qualify for Work First Family Assistance “WFFA” get a check.

2. Can I get Medicaid?

Medicaid pays for covered medical and health care services for eligible families with children and for adults who are:

• 65 or older
• Blind
• Disabled
• The caretaker of a child under the age 18 
• Pregnant

Resources are considered when determining eligibility for most programs. Income limits are based on the federal poverty level and range from 100 to 200% of the federal poverty level depending on the program for which you are eligible.

3. How can I get a new Medicaid card?

Call the Primary Health Plan that is on your Medicaid card.  If you are not enrolled with a plan, call Social Services at 910-798-3500 option 4.

4. How do I apply for Health Choice or Medicaid?

You can apply:

• Online at the ePass website
• Phone by calling 910-798-3500, Option 4
• You can print the application (English and Spanish) and mail it to 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401 
• Print and fax the application to 910-798-7824
• In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401

5. What is the definition of disability?

As defined by Social Security, it is a physical or mental impairment which prevents an individual from engaging in any substantial, gainful activity, and which has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death. To apply for disability benefits, you must apply through the Social Security Administration offices, 800-772-1213 or 800-325-0778 (TTY).

6. Which Doctors or Dentists accept Medicaid?

Medicaid benefits and eligibility vary according to a person’s circumstances and what Health Plan you are linked to. If you are not linked to a Health Plan you should call the Enrollment Broker to see what your options are based on the Health Plan you choose.  https://ncmedicaidplans.gov/enroll/online/find/find-provider?lang=en

7. My Mother needs to be placed in a Nursing Home. What can I do?

• First, speak to your mother/father’s physician and see if they are recommending them being placed in a nursing home. Does your parent have the capacity to make decisions for themselves? 
• We then talk about the placement process and refer them to come into the agency to pick up a placement packet to assist them in this process.
• For more information call 910-798-3719.

8. Where can I get an FL-2 form for the nursing home?

• By downloading the FL-2 form 
• By call 910-798-3460 and request one to be sent to you through the mail. 
• In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401.

9. Will Medicaid pay for my care in a nursing home?

If you meet eligibility requirements, Medicaid will pay for some portion of your cost of care in a long term skilled or intermediate care facility as well as medical expenses.

10. Will the State take my home if I get Medicaid?

If you receive CAP or are in a long term care facility, estate recovery may apply to you. This means at the time of your death the government may make a claim against your estate to recover the money paid to medical providers on your behalf.

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Social Services - Other

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1. How do I report fraud?

If you suspect fraudulent activity involving Medicaid Providers (doctors, pharmacies, etc.,), you should contact the Program Integrity Section of the North Carolina Division of Medical Assistance. You can reach the Program Integrity Section toll-free by calling the CARE-LINE at 800-662-7030 and asking for the DMA Program Integrity Section.

To report fraudulent activity involving grocers, you should contact the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) at 910-790-2929.

To report recipient fraud in any program, contact the Department of Social Services in which the recipient lives. For New Hanover County Department of Social Services, call 910-798-3500.

2. I moved to New Hanover County from another part of the State, how do I get my benefits transferred?

Contact the New Hanover County Department of Social Services at 910-798-3500.

3. Can I get Social Security and Medicare from Social Services?

Social Security and Medicare are both administered by the Social Security Administration located at 1528 S 16th Street. Social Services administers the Medicaid program.

4. How can I get help with collecting my child support?

Child Support Enforcement services are available to anyone who has custody of a minor dependent child regardless of income. Child Support Enforcement can help in location of absent parents, establishment of paternity for children born outside of marriage, establishment of support obligations, collection and distribution of support, and enforcement of support obligations. In New Hanover County, child support is contracted to Young Williams. The office is located at 3309 Jaeckle Drive in Wilmington.

Call 910-343-3355 for an appointment.

5. If my teenager wants to get a job, what do I have to do?

Go to the NC Labor website and follow the instructions for completing a Youth Work Permit.

6. Can I get help with transportation to and from work or Medical appointments?

If you are receiving Medicaid and you need assistance getting to medical treatment, call the Transportation Coordinator at 910-798-3500 option 7 or come into the New Hanover County Department of Social Services.

Assistance with transportation to and from work is based on income and availability of funds. You will need to see a social worker in Services Intake. Call 910-798-3500 to make an appointment.

7. How can I get help paying my rent, light bill, etc.?

You can call New Hanover County Department of Social Services at 910-798-3500 to make an appointment or you can come to the agency and be seen by a worker on a walk-in basis. A social worker will assess the situation and determine if we can assist you. If you already have a social worker, contact them to make an appointment.

8. How Can You Support and Strengthen the Community?

Some opportunities are:

• Faith Community Fund: donate money to be used to assist clients in need.
• Adopt-a-Family: volunteer to mentor a family in our Work First Program.
• Summer Camp Opportunities: donate money to allow foster children the opportunity to attend camp.
• Luggage Program: donate luggage to foster children.
• Foster Children Christmas Party: donate money for this annual event.
• Foster and Adoptive Parent: become a foster or adoptive parent to children in need.
• Adopt-a- Foster Child for Christmas: volunteer to provide Christmas gifts for a child.
• Life Guide: provide support as a mentor to a child aging out of foster care.
• Assist Foster Parents: offer church facilities for training; support foster parents in your congregation.
• Backpack Program: provide new school backpacks for children in foster care.
• School Supplies: provide school supplies for children in foster care.
• Photo Albums: provide new photo albums for foster and adoptive children to make their own personal Life Books.

9. How do I apply for a job with DSS?

The New Hanover County Department of Human resources accepts applications on behalf of the Department of Social Services. Applications for Economic Services are accepted on an on-going basis and are maintained by the County Department of Human Resources. The Department of Social Services requests applications as vacancies occur.

All other vacancies are advertised. The County Department of Human Resources accepts applications for these vacancies as they occur and forwards them to the Department of Social Services.

You may contact the Department of Human Resources regarding the status of vacancies within the county, including the Department of Social Services. The number is 910-798-7178. New Hanover County also has a "Job Line" number that consists of a recording listing job opportunities within the county. That number is 910-798-7163. You may also visit New Hanover County's website.

10. How do I get to your office?

The New Hanover County Department of Social Services is located in the Health and Human Services building between 16th and 17th Streets at 1650 Greenfield Street. Some familiar landmarks that are close to our facility are the Wilmington Housing Authority, the Social Security Administration, and the Scottish Rite Temple.

11. What are your hours?

The agency is open Monday, Wednesday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm and on Tuesday from 8 am to 6 pm.

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Social Services - Programs

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1. What is the Crisis Intervention Program?

The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) is a Federally funded program that assists individuals and families who are experiencing a heating or cooling related crisis. A household is considered to be in a crisis if it is currently experiencing or is in danger of experiencing a life threatening or health related emergency and sufficient, timely and appropriate assistance is not available from any other source. Life threatening is defined as a household which has no heating or cooling source or has a disconnect notice for their primary heating or cooling service and the health or well being of a household member would be in danger if the heating or cooling crisis was not alleviated. 

2. How do I qualify for Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)?

Households that meet the following criteria may be eligible:

• Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria
• Have income equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty level Who is eligible for Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)?
• Have an energy related crisis
• Have a utility statement that shows how much is owed to alleviate the crisis

3. How do I apply for Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)?

• Online at the ePass website
• Phone by calling 910-798-3500, Option 4
• You can print the application (English and Spanish) and mail it to 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401 
• Print and fax the application (English and Spanish) to 910-798-7824
• In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
• An application can be mailed upon request

4. What is the Family Support Program?

The Family Support Program is designed to assist with barriers that hinder timely child support payments, family self-sufficiency & active involvement in children’s life. Services for Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents are available. Referrals to the Family Support Program are accepted through Child Support Services, Child Support Court, Self – referrals and other Social Services and Community Programs. 

 Services include:

•  Job Search Referrals
• Education, training, job readiness programs, and other community resources
• Access to economic empowerment
• Effective parenting
• Assistance with accessing Family Court resources 

View the Family Support Program Brochure (PDF) to learn more about the Family Support Program.

For more information or to self-refer, contact 910-798-3500

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Social Services - Work First

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1. What is Work First?

North Carolina’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, called Work First (WF), is based on the premise that parents have a responsibility to support themselves and their children. Work First provides parents with short-term training and other services to help them become employed and move toward self-sufficiency. Families in which grandparents and relatives are caring for their relative children and legal guardians can receive services and support that prevent children from unnecessarily entering the foster care system.

For more information, please call 910-798-3500

2. How do I apply for Work First?

To apply, come into the New Hanover County Department of Social Services during regular business hours. Monday, Wednesday - Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, Tuesday, 8 am to 6 pm. or call 910-798-3500 to speak to a case worker.

You can apply:

• Phone by calling 910-798-3500, Option 4
• You can print the application (English and Spanish) and mail it to 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401 
• Print and fax the application to 910-798-7824
• In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
• An application can be mailed to you upon request. 

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Soil & Water

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1. Does Soil & Water do stream clearing?

No, Stormwater Services is responsible for this service.

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Stormwater Services

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1. What is stormwater?

Stormwater runoff is the water that flows over the ground as the result of rain, snow, hail and sleet. Buildings, streets, driveways, parking lots, sidewalks, and patios prevent the water from soaking into the ground. These structures are referred to as impervious surfaces.

As the runoff flows across the ground, it picks up pollutants and carries them into local waterways, and then into the ocean.

2. Why is it important to manage stormwater?

It is important to manage stormwater in order to reduce flood risks that may impact public safety and loss or damage of property, and prevent polluted stormwater from flowing directly into rivers and streams.

3. What is a stormwater service?

A stormwater service is a legal entity that can provide stormwater management activities including administrative functions, planning, engineering, regulation, permitting, maintenance operations, and capital improvements. The stormwater service (like other utilities – i.e., power and water) provides a method of generating revenue for these activities through user fees.

New Hanover County began exploring the process of implementing a stormwater services program in 2017 and on December 16, 2019, the Board of Commissioners approved the program, a fee structure, and additional staff needed to implement the program.

4. Public Input Opportunities

New Hanover County held stakeholder meetings on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, to get public input and feedback on a possible Stormwater Service. Meetings were held with large landholders and developers, non-profits and churches, commercial property owners, and the general public.

An informational meeting, drop-in online public meeting was held Wednesday, June 23, 2021. The meeting allowed property and business owners to speak directly with an engineer from the Engineering Department as well as a representative from our consultant Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. They helped property owners by accessing records of properties, gave accurate depictions of how the program will benefit properties, and explained how stormwater fees are calculated.

5. Timeline for program

• July 16, 2019: Stakeholder meetings held for large landowners and developers, commercial property owners, non-profits, churches, and the general public
• December 16, 2019: Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to finalize plans for a Stormwater Service to begin July 2020
• July 2020: Stormwater Services went into effect with the Fiscal Year 20-21 budget; however, the Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution to delay the fee to property owners for one year due to the financial impacts of COVID-19 on residents, businesses, and organizations.
• June 23, 2021: Online public information meetings held to discuss specifics of program and fee structure of Stormwater Services
• August 2021: Stormwater Services fee began to be collected through the county tax bill, mailed in August (Note: for Fiscal Year 21-22, the county utilized American Rescue Plan funding to reduce the fees of the program to a rate of $1 per Equivalent Rate Unit (ERU) for property owners)

6. What is the stormwater fee?

A nominal fee supports these services and only applies to property owners in the unincorporated areas of the county.

For the current fiscal year from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023, the ERU is the standard rate of $5.65.

Non-residential properties developed with impervious areas such as rooftops, asphalt, and sidewalks pay based on the amount of impervious surface. The formula for this is: amount of impervious area in square feet divided by 4,000 square feet and then multiplied by an ERU. For this current year (Fiscal Year 2022-2023), the ERU will be $5.65 per month as mentioned above. (As an example: a business with 40,000 square feet of impervious surface pays a fee of 40,000/4000=10, then 10×5.65 (ERU) for a total bill of $56.50 per month or $678 total for the current fiscal year).

Properties developed since September of 2000 that maintain stormwater control measures under a county permit will receive a 31% discount since less maintenance from Stormwater Services will be required.

The Stormwater Services fee is not a tax, but it will be collected once a year through the county's property tax bill (sent in August) and will be listed as a separate fee for property owners in the unincorporated area.

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Tax

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1. When will I receive a bill for my real estate taxes?

Tax notices (bills) are mailed in August each year and are due on September 1st but payable until January 5th (the next business day if the 5th falls on a weekend) of the next year to avoid legal action. Partial payments are accepted prior to the delinquent date. Interest begins January 5th at a rate of 2% and increases by 3/4% each month thereafter. Delinquent taxes are subject to immediate garnishment, foreclosure, or seizure of property. Unpaid taxes are advertised between the months of March and April.

2. Where can I pay my taxes?

The most convenient way to pay your taxes is by mail. You can send your payments to the post office box in Charlotte which is on the bill you receive in the mail, or mail them directly New Hanover County Tax Office, P.O. Box 18000, Wilmington, NC. 28406. You may also pay your bills in person at or office located at  230 Government Center Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 between the hours of 8:00 am and 5 pm. Monday through Friday.

3. How Are Taxes Determined?

The responsibility of the Tax Department is to value all taxable property in the county. The total value of all the property in the county is called the tax base. Each county agency and/or department submits an annual operating budget to our County Budget Department. This information is forwarded to the County Manager who submits a recommended total budget to the County Commissioners for their consideration. The Board of Commissioners, along with the Budget Department and the County Manager, review the budget and the tax base to determine a recommended tax rate. This is also done to establish a fire district tax. Of course, this process is not as simple as it sounds, many hours are spent analyzing the departmental budgets, county programs, and outside agencies to arrive at a budget that will provide services to the citizens of New Hanover County.

Each municipality completes a similar process. The whole process is usually completed by the end of June and the county commissioners and town boards establish new tax rates by July 1. Once the tax rates are established, taxpayers receive a consolidated tax bill, usually in August, which includes their county and fire district tax if their taxable property is only within the county boundaries, or their county and municipality taxes which are the City of Wilmington, Kure Beach, Carolina Beach, and Wrightsville Beach, depending on the location of the property.

4. What Is Taxable Property?

Personal Property

Personal property includes motor vehicles, boats, campers, trailers, single-wide mobile homes and double-wide mobile homes with the moving hitch, wheels, and axle attached, and airplanes. Anyone who owns any of these items on January 1, (excluding licensed motor vehicles) must list them with the Tax Department during the month of January each year. If a property tax listing form, also known as an abstract of taxable property, is not received in the mail, please call our office at 910-798-7300 to request one. A 10% late listing penalty will be charged for anyone not listing their required property with the Tax Department before the January 31st deadline. If January 31st falls on a weekend the next business day will be the deadline.

Licensed Motor Vehicles

Licensed motor vehicles and trailers are listed automatically when you first register or renew your motor vehicle or trailer registration through the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Business Personal Property

Business personal property includes machinery, computer/office equipment, airplanes, unlicensed vehicles, leasehold improvements, leased equipment, supplies, furniture, fixtures, farm equipment, etc. which are used for a business. Listings must be submitted during the month of January to avoid a 10% late listing penalty. However, an extension can be granted until March 15, if the request is made in writing and is postmarked or hand delivered to the Tax Department by January 31st or if January 31st falls on a weekend the first business day following the 31st. Business property statements are mailed to all business' who listed the previous year or for anyone who has requested a form. If you have business personal property, and do not receive a listing form, please call the Info Center at 910-798-7300 and request a form be mailed to you.

Real Property

Real property includes any structures or improvements on land including doublewide and single-wide mobile homes on the land of the same owner with it's wheels and axles removed. You do not have to list real property each year only improvements made to the property. Real Property is permanently listed in New Hanover County so you no longer have to list real property each year. However, you must still list improvements made to the property.

Any improvements made during the previous year must be listed during the regular listing period which is the month of January. If you have made improvements to your property and did not receive an abstract, a form can be requested by calling 910-798-7300 or you can write to the Tax Administrator's office and ask us to list for you. This letter must include your name and mailing address, the address of the property, the type of improvement made and the percentage of work completed as of January 1. Someone from the appraisal office will visit your property and identify improvements which have been made. That information will be entered into the tax data base to calculate a value using the adopted schedule of values in effect for the most recent revaluation.

The effective date of our current revaluation is January 1, 2021. Anytime we make a change in your value, you will be notified in writing. If you do not agree with this value, you should contact our Information Center at 910-798-7300 and they will arrange for you to discuss your value with an appraiser. The next revaluation is scheduled to become effective on January 1, 2025.

You may appeal your value in any year between January 1 and the adjournment of the Board of Equalization and Review. The Board of Equalization and Review meets between the first Monday in April and the first Monday in May of each year.

5. What Is Revaluation And Why Have It?

Revaluation is a systematic, in depth process using a Computer Aided Mass Appraisal (CAMA) system to reappraise or reassess all real property in the County to the current market value. (Appraised value and assessed value can be used interchangeably in North Carolina because property is required to be assessed at 100% of its appraised value.) The real estate market is one of constant change caused by the freedom we have to buy and sell property. This change can vary greatly depending on a property's size, type and location. This can create an inequitable situation in the level of assessment among owners of property and inequity among differing types of property.

The longer this situation exists, the more unjust it becomes. The end result is an unfair tax burden on those properties which have an assessed value close to the actual market value compared to those properties whose assessed value is well below market value. The relationship between assessed, or tax value, and market value is called the sales/assessment ratio.

A countywide revaluation is an enormous and complex task. We are fortunate to have a qualified and knowledgeable in-house appraisal team in New Hanover County. They are all residents of the local area who are very familiar with property in this County. They have made every effort to consider the many factors involved in determining property values through the completion of the revaluation process. Field inspections are conducted, sales files are developed and analyzed and market trends continually monitored. Contacts are made with property owners, local realtors, building contractors, building suppliers and home lending institutions, all for the purpose of being as knowledgeable as possible about property values.

6. How is my value determined?

In conducting mass appraisal, the appraisers are generally guided by three basic approaches for analyzing the value of properties. They are:

• The Cost Approach
• The Market (Sales Comparison) Approach
• The Income Approach

The Cost Approach, which is the best suited of the three approaches for the valuation of real property in the "mass appraisal" process, serves as the primary valuation method in New Hanover County. The Cost Approach, estimates the replacement cost new of the property, or the cost to build a structure of equivalent utility (functionality). The estimates are based from costing manuals and local contractors. From that, an estimate of total accrued depreciation (physical, functional, external) is observed, calculated and deducted from the cost estimate to generate the depreciated replacement cost new. To that, land valued separately is then added to get an estimate of the fair market value of the property.

The Market approach to value compares the property being appraised with similar properties sold in the past.

The Income Approach is the process of estimating the value of an income-producing property through capitalization of the annual net income expected to be produced by the property.

The Market and Income Approaches each analyze the value of the whole property. In order to derive a building value estimate from either of these indications of value, the value of the land must be subtracted from the total value. Should the Market or Income Approach, or both, thus indicate a very low contribution for the buildings, the land may be mis-improved (the buildings will no longer represent the highest and best use of the land). The appraiser may be required to apply an appropriate significant amount of Functional or Economic Obsolescence.

If two or three of the approaches indicate significantly different values, the appraiser who reviews the components of each approach usually finds additional factors that must be considered. Not all properties are a candidate for the application of all three approaches.

The Tax Administrator's Office is required to divide every parcel's appraised value into its components (land and building). However, the somewhat artificial allocation of a given parcel's total value (final market value) into its land and building components must not be compared to a similar allocation of total value in any other appraisal opinion. Any such comparison is invalid.

Should an owner elect to appeal a value, only the total value is in question - not its components.

7. What if I Disagree with my property value?

Of course, no matter how thorough and fair a revaluation may be, there are still instances when only the property owner has all the information necessary for an accurate appraisal. That is why there is a relatively easy appeal process. First, complete the appeal form received with the revaluation notice and return it to the Appraisal Office. The appraiser responsible for your area will discuss your concerns after reviewing the back-up used during the revaluation of your property. We will make any corrections that are appropriate based on the review or make no changes. You have the right to appeal that decision, in writing, to the Appraisal Supervisor, who will review the file and respond to you with the results of that review. If you still do not agree with the value you will be provided a "Valuation Complaint Form", from the Appraisal Office, to complete. This will be an appeal to the New Hanover County Board of Equalization and Review which appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. Appeals must be submitted prior to the convening of the Board of Equalization and Review which meets between the first Monday in April and the first Monday in May. It is incumbent upon the appellant to prove that the assigned value is incorrect.

If you are still dissatisfied with your property value after being heard by the Board of Equalization and Review, the next step is to appeal to the North Carolina Property Tax Commission in Raleigh. Very rarely is this step required. From the Property Tax Commission, you may appeal to the North Carolina Court of Appeals and finally to the North Carolina supreme Court. Again, these appeals are very rare since every effort is made by the Tax department to resolve our issue locally among people who are most familiar with property values in New Hanover County.

You can appeal your value by visiting the Tax Department Forms page.

8. Do you accept debit or credit card payments?

We do accept debit and credit card payments in our office. You can also pay your tax bill online with OSG Billing and Payment Solutions website. To pay by phone, call 1-877-295-3383. There will be a convenience fee for this service that is paid to OSG Billing and Payment Solutions.

9. What is the Municipal Services District?

More information on the Municipal Services District, can be found by viewing the Municipal Services District website.

10. What is the debt service tax rate and what does it fund?

Read a full list of FAQs on the debt service tax rate on the Tax Debt Service Tax Rate FAQs.

11. Are There Any Exemptions or Special Programs?

Yes, under certain circumstances, you may be eligible for reduced taxes if you meet the requirements specified in the North Carolina General Statutes. A brief description and the basic requirements are described under this section.

Tax Relief for Elderly & Permanently Disable

Property tax laws exclude the greater of $25,000 or 50% of the assessed value of your home and land up to and including 1 acre of land from the total assessed value of property owned by residents of North Carolina who reside in this residence and who meet the following requirements:

• Must be 65 years old or older, or totally and permanently disabled. (If not 65 years old or older, but permanently disabled, you will need certification from a physician licensed to practice medicine in North Carolina. It is essential that the certificate state your disability is total and permanent. This form will be supplied by the Tax Office).
• Total annual income coming into the home must not exceed the maximum noted on the application. (income is defined as all money coming into your home except inheritances received from a spouse, ancestor or descendant or gifts. For married applicants residing with their spouses, the income of both spouses must be included even if only one is an owner of the property.)

Anyone who meets these requirements can request an exclusion form by calling 798-7300. Applications should be filed prior to June 1 to insure the exclusion is granted for the current tax year.

If the June 1st deadline is missed, you may still return the form and appropriate information to our office. We will be required to submit your application to the Board of County Commissioners for their approval. You will need to write a letter, addressed to the Board of County Commissioners, explaining why the form is late.

Exempt Property

North Carolina General Statutes allow for certain types of property to be exempt from property taxes if they meet the requirements specified by the statutes. Some types of exempt property may include but are not limited to the following:

• Property used for religious purposes.
• Property set aside for burial.
• Property used for educational, scientific or literary purposes.
• Property used for charitable purposes.

To apply for an exemption, an application must be filed with the Tax Administrator during the regular listing period, which is the month of January. To receive an application or learn more about exempt property, please call 798-7300.

Land Use Programs

The North Carolina General Assembly enacted the "Land Use Program," which allows reduced tax values for individually owned property used for agriculture, horticulture or forestry. Basic eligibility requirements follow:

• Agriculture: Agricultural land consisting of one or more tracts, one of which consists of at least 10 acres that is in actual agricultural production and that, for the 3 years preceding January 1 of the year for which the benefit is claimed, has produced an average gross income of at least $1000.
• Horticulture: Land consisting of one or more tracts, one of which consists of at least five acres that is in actual production and that, for the three years preceding January of the year the benefit is claimed, has either produced an average gross income of $1,000 or been used to produce evergreens intended for use as Christmas trees and meet gross income requirements.
• Forestry: Forestland consisting of one or more tracts, one of which consists of at least 20 acres that is in actual production and are not included in a farm unit. A forestry management plan is required.

To apply for the Land Use Program, or learn more about eligibility requirements, contact our office at 910-798-7300.

12. My vehicle value is too high, how do I appeal?

All vehicle values must be appealed informally in writing within 30 days of the date of the notice. Grounds for appeal would be, but are not limited to, excessive damage, poor condition or excessive mileage. Proof must be submitted to prove the condition of the vehicle as of January 1.

13. What if I buy and or sell property during the year?

The owner of personal property (see explanation under Personal Property above) as of January 1st of the current tax year is responsible for taxes for the entire year. Real estate taxes are not pro rated either but are usually handled between the buyer and seller at the time of closing. You should refer to your closing statement to see if provisions for property taxes were made at that time. Most attorneys pro rate the taxes on real estate on a calendar year basis and depending on the time of year the closing is processed determines whether the taxes are paid to the tax department directly or if the seller pays the buyer their portion of the taxes and then the buyer is responsible for payment of the entire tax bill to the tax office. The tax bill is sent to the owner of record when the bills are processed. The January 1st owner's name will appear on the tax bill but it will be sent to the new owner if there is a change in ownership. The reason for sending the new owner the bill is if these taxes are not paid, a lien is placed on the property and any action as described above will be taken against the current owner.

14. When is the Annual Required Listing Period?

The month of January is the annual required listing period. Anyone who does not list their taxable personal property (see section "What is Taxable Property") by January 31st will be charged a 10% late list fee. January 1 is the established date for determining property value and ownership. Everyone pays property taxes for the whole year based on what they own on January 1, with the exception of motor vehicles and trailers registered with the NC Department of Motor Vehicles. Vehicle taxes can be prorated when the vehicle is sold or a taxpayer moves out of state and surrenders their license plate to the NCDMV. All other taxes are not prorated or released because you relocate within or out of North Carolina or dispose of the property anytime after January 1. The full amount of tax is due for the entire year based on ownership and property value as of January 1 of the current year. You list in one county each year. If you move to another county in North Carolina after January 1, you will not file a "Property Tax Listing" form in that county until the following January.

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Tax - Motor Vehicles Information

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1. What’s the reason for the change?

The North Carolina General Assembly passed House Bill 1779, creating what we call the Tag and Tax Together program, a more streamlined method for vehicle owners to pay their registration and vehicle taxes. Beginning in 2013, annual registration fees and vehicle property taxes will be paid to the Division of Motor Vehicles. The DMV will, in turn, distribute the taxes to the appropriate counties.

2. What changes with the passage of this legislation?

Currently, vehicle registration fees and vehicle property taxes are billed and paid separately. Each county is responsible for managing vehicle tax collections, while DMV handles registration fees.

Beginning in mid-2013, DMV will begin sending out registration renewal notices that invoice the vehicle tax due along with the registration fee. The fees are listed separately but will be due at the same time. The total amount due on the combined statement will be payable to NCDMV. As before, you can pay online, through the mail or in person at a license plate agency near you.

3. When does the new Tag and Tax system take effect?

The new system will be phased in with the vehicle registration renewals that are due in mid-2013. By mid-2014, all North Carolina vehicles will be incorporated into the system.

4. What will be different about my annual renewal notice?

The new renewal notice combines the information about your vehicle registration renewal fee and the vehicle property tax due. The new notice includes separate contact information for registration questions and for tax questions. The new Tag and Tax Together program allows you to make one convenient payment to NCDMV for both registration renewal and vehicle property tax. NCDMV will forward the property tax portion of your payment directly to your county revenue department.

5. I pay my property tax with my mortgage. Does the new system include my home or mortgage property tax?

The new Tag and Tax Together program is for your vehicle property tax only and does not affect your mortgage or home property tax.

6. When is my vehicle tax due?

Your vehicle tax will be due at the same time your vehicle registration is due. The due date will be printed on the new renewal notice that you receive in the mail.

7. How should I pay both fees?

• Online
  • Go the Vehicle Registration Renewal page and pay with your credit or check card
• By mail
  • Send a check or money order to the address listed on your renewal notice*
• In person
  • Go to a license plate agency near you
  • The DMV Vehicle Registration Office:
    1100 New Bern Avenue
    Raleigh, NC 27697

*If your mailing address has changed since your last registration renewal, the tax amount may need to be recalculated. If this is the case, do not mail your payment in. Contact your county tax office to see if your tax amount needs to be recalculated.

8. Will my vehicle registration renewal fee remain the same?

Yes. Your vehicle's annual registration renewal fees will remain the same. The increase in your bill is from the addition of the vehicle property tax.

9. Do I still need to have my car inspected before I can renew my registration?

Yes. Your vehicle must pass an annual safety and/or emissions inspection before the registration is renewed. As in previous years, you may have your vehicle inspected as early as 90 days before your registration renewal is due.

10. How will I know how much property tax I owe?

Information about your property tax will be included on the combined notice, along with your county and municipality tax rates and other applicable taxes due.

11. Can I renew my vehicle registration without paying my property tax?

No. You cannot renew your motor vehicle’s registration unless the total taxes and registration fees on the vehicle are paid at the same time.

12. Are the vehicle property taxes for the coming year or the preceding year?

Taxes due on the combined notice are for the coming year, covering the same period as the vehicle registration.

13. Will I receive a notice if I have moved since my previous vehicle registration renewal?

If you reported your new address to NCDMV, you should receive your tag and tax notice at your new address. If you did not notify NCDMV of your new address, you may not receive the renewal notice.

If you have moved since your last renewal, your vehicle property tax may need to be recalculated. Do not send your renewal and payment by mail. You can change your address by visiting your local license plate agency or online by requesting a duplicate registration card for $15.00.

14. What will happen if I don’t pay the registration and vehicle tax by the due date?

Interest will be charged on late vehicle property tax payments and registration renewals. Your vehicle will also be subject to citation if it is driven after the tags expire.

15. Can I pay my vehicle property tax at my county tax office?

Once your vehicle becomes part of the Tag and Tax Together program and you have received the combined notice, you will no longer be able to pay your vehicle tax at your county tax office.

16. Who should I contact if I have questions about my vehicle property tax?

Contact information for your county’s tax office is on your Tag and Tax renewal notice, or refer to this list of county tax offices. 

17. How is the property tax determined on my vehicle?

The county vehicle appraiser will value your vehicle based on its fair market value. Your property tax will be based on the tax rates and jurisdiction your vehicle is located in.

18. What if I don’t agree with the value, property tax or vehicle tax location, who do I contact, and what is the deadline for making an appeal?

After a vehicle owner has received their combined notice and the owner disagrees with the value, property tax, or vehicle tax location, they should contact the county tax office in which the vehicle resides. The owner has 30 days to appeal from the due date which is the 15th day of the month following the registration renewal action or similarly on a new registration.

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Tax 2021 Revaluation

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1. What is the purpose of the revaluation program?

The primary purpose of a revaluation program is to fairly reflect the value of all property in the county. A revaluation provides equalization among all property owners, as well as among all classes of property across the county. North Carolina law requires each county to conduct a revaluation at least once every eight years. New Hanover County has implemented a four-year plan for its revaluation programs to better reflect changes in market conditions that exist in the county. This process will help ensure that taxpayers are paying appropriate taxes for property, based on the changing property values that occur during periods of growth or economic downturn. The revaluation program is not intended to increase revenue for the county. It is in place to ensure that each property owner pays their fair share of the cost of services rendered by local government, based on the value of their property.

2. When do the new property values go into effect?

The new values became effective on January 1, 2021 and will be reflected in the tax bills property owners receive in August of 2021.

3. What is the difference between Reappraisal and Revaluation?

Nothing. NCGS 105-286 states that each county must reappraise all real property at least once every eight years. The Reappraisal process is appraising or valuing property at its true market value as of a certain date in time. Many tax offices will use the term 'revaluation' instead of 'reappraisal' and one is not more right than the other. We will see the term 'reappraisal' referred to in the statutes while simultaneously referring to it as a 'revaluation' internally. Both mean the same, one is just more formal than the other.

4. How will I be notified of any property value change?

The New Hanover County Tax Department will mail out the 2021 Notice of Assessed Values to all New Hanover County residential and commercial real property owners in early 2021.  This notice will inform taxpayers of their new property values for the 2021 tax year. The notice is not a tax bill. Tax bills will be mailed out in August 2021.

All real property values can also be viewed on the NHC Tax Department's Property Assessment website.

5. What was the process for determining my property value?

New Hanover County goes to great lengths to get a true and accurate value of each property in the county. New Hanover County tax appraisers visit residential and commercial properties in the county, photograph properties, educated citizens, take measurements, and evaluate improvements or deterioration to the property. The appraisers currently review and assess over 110,000 parcels and use proven methods for analyzing comparable properties and other factors affecting property value. Each property is appraised using the same method, applied uniformly across the county.

The Tax Department has made available online, Property Tax Questionnaires and Sales Verification forms for citizens to fill out to better assist us confirming their property and/ or sales information. The purpose of these forms are to verify sales information along with square footage, number of rooms and bathrooms, and other important details. All of the completed forms and questionnaires are reviewed by staff, and follow-up calls and visits are made when necessary to address concerns and to make sure property information is accurate. From all of this information and thorough extensive research, New Hanover County's appraisers are able to determine the value for each property.

New Hanover County Tax Office used a modified cost method for all properties. The exception to that is Low Income Housing Tax Credit program (LIHTC) apartments which are valued on the income approach.

6. Where did New Hanover County get their comparable sales and or basis for value?

New Hanover County looks at all comparable sales within a revaluation cycle that are considered to be "arm's length transactions". This means that neither party involved in the sale is acting under duress. These sales, used along with our modified cost method, determine the basis for the valuation of all properties in New Hanover County.

7. What if I disagree with the revaluation of my property?

Before assuming that the value of your property is incorrect, you are advised to check into the current selling price of comparable property in your area.

Every revaluation is a new starting point. There is no precedential value based on prior actions of the Board of Equalization and Review or staff. With each appeal the only debate is what was the market value of this property on January 1, 2021.

If you feel the assessed tax value is not in accordance with comparable properties in your area or if you feel that New Hanover County has inaccurate information about your property's size or features, you can appeal the revaluation of your property.

8. What are the steps to appeal my property value?

State law presumes that assessments are correct. This presumption places the burden on the Taxpayer to "produce competent, material and substantial evidence that tends to show: either the county tax supervisor used an arbitrary method of valuation; or the county tax assessor used an illegal method of valuation; and the assessment substantially exceeded the true value in money of the property." (In re Appeal of Amp, Inc., 287 NC 547 at 563 (1975))

• To begin the appeal process, complete the appeal form online at the Tax Department Forms website. If you are filling out a paper form that you have received from our office, you have the option to hand deliver it or mail it back to our office, If mailing in the form, please mail it to the New Hanover County Tax Department, ATTN: Appraisal Department, 230 Government Center Dr. Suite 190, Wilmington, NC 28403.
• An appeal form must be completed within 30 days of receiving the revaluation notice. By completing an appeal form, you are requesting an informal review of your property.
• It is incumbent upon the appealing taxpayer to provide written or photographic evidence that the county assessors decision is unlawful or incorrect, not simply that you disagree. You must be able to prove that the county assessor has made an error and that the value placed on the property is substantially greater than true value. Without this evidence of error, the Board is not at liberty to revise the value. The current date of value is January 1, 2021 therefore, examples would be an appraisal as of 01/01/2021 (no more than 12 months prior), or documentation of closed qualified market sales that occurred between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020.
• You are encouraged to have information to support your position, i.e., a recent real estate appraisal of your property and records of known sales of nearby properties, or other factual information that you feel would be beneficial. Include this information with your appeal form.
• Informal Appeal Process: The appraiser responsible for your area will review the appeal information that you have submitted. After review, you will be sent a notice with the informal review decision, with your property's assessed value (note: a notice will be sent even if the value remains the same).
• Formal Appeal Process: If you do not agree to the value after the informal review decision and you still believe that the real property value estimate is incorrect, please notify the appraiser handling your appeal by phone, email, or mail, that you still disagree. Your informal appeal status will then be changed to the formal appeal status and you will be scheduled for a hearing before the Board of Equalization and Review. You will be sent a notice notifying you within 10 days of your scheduled hearing for you to present evidence as to present information as to why you feel the value of your property is incorrect.
• The Board of Equalization and Review is composed of New Hanover County citizens, appointed by the Board of Commissioners, sitting in special session, to review and equalize the valuations of all property in the county. Meetings will take place at the New Hanover County Government Complex, 230 Government Center Drive. The appellant will be given time to present their factual evidence (written and /or photographic) to the Board proving that the county assessors decision is unlawful or incorrect, not simply that you disagree. You must be able to prove that the county assessor has made an error and that the value placed on the property is substantially greater than true value. Without this evidence of error, the Board is not at liberty to revise the value. Please have your evidence readily available to expedite the hearing process
• If, after appealing to the Board of Equalization and Review, you are still dissatisfied with the outcome, you may appeal to the Property Tax Commission in Raleigh, NC. Information on how to submit your appeal will be included in the decision notice from your Board of Equalization hearing. The Property Tax Commission is located at 501 N Wilmington Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 in the Revenue Building.
• The final method for appeal is to the NC court system.

9. When is the deadline to appeal my 2021 assessed value?

The Board of E and R will adjourn on May 11, 2021.

Pursuant to NC.G.S. 105-322 the New Hanover County Board of Equalization and Review will meet as required by law.

Purpose of Meeting

To hear upon request, any and all taxpayers who own or control taxable property assessed for taxation in New Hanover County, with respect to the valuation of such property or the property of others, to schedule hearings, and to fulfill duties and responsibilities required by law.

Time of Meetings

As per NC.G.S. 105-322 (E) Time of Meeting

Each year the board of equalization and review shall hold its first meeting not earlier than the first Monday in April and not later than the first Monday in May. In years in which a county does not conduct a real property revaluation, the board shall complete its duties on or before the third Monday following its first meeting unless, in its opinion, a longer period of time is necessary or expedient to a proper execution of its responsibilities.

10. Would I need multiple appeal forms to appeal multiple properties?

Yes, a separate appeal form must be submitted for each parcel that you are appealing. Forms can be found online on the Tax Department Forms website.

11. Why did my value go up over a year?

Your value was last assessed as of January 1, 2017. Unless you made changes to the property (added or removed something of value) your assessed value would have stayed the same through December 31, 2020.

12. Why isn’t my value the same as the sale price I paid for it?

New Hanover County, as with all counties in North Carolina, determines property value through a process called mass appraisal. Mass appraisal is the process of valuing a group of properties as of a given date and using common data, standardized methods, and statistical testing to determine value. New Hanover County is therefore looking at the neighborhood market as a whole and sometimes some properties are low while others are high.

13. How does revaluation equalize the tax burden?

Since property taxes are based on value, it is important to have all property valued periodically on a uniform basis, using a modern system of valuation. Property values change with time. Some values go up, some go down, and others remain static. Appraisals must be updated or inequities in tax distribution will result. For instance, property valued at $150,000 in 2017 might now be worth $172,000, or the property could have declined in value to $135,000. In either case, the 2017 assessed value of the property is obsolete and will result in the property owner either paying too much or too little of his or her share of the tax for the operation of local government. New Hanover County's revaluation will make sure people are paying taxes fairly, based on their current property value.

14. What effect will the revaluation project have on tax bills?

At this time, the effect of revaluations on tax bills is unknown. There are three factors that determine how much tax each property owner must pay:

• The assessed value of the property.
• The cost of local government-provided services that the citizens of the county require.
• The tax rate set by the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners and each municipality (City of Wilmington, Town of Carolina Beach, Town of Wrightsville Beach, and Town of Kure Beach) to meet the cost of services.

The revaluation’s effect on your tax bill cannot be determined until operating budgets are adopted and the governing bodies have set tax rates for New Hanover County and the various municipalities. Budgets are adopted and tax rates are set prior to July 1 each year. Historic tax rates can be located on the Tax Department Historic Tax Rates website.

15. What tax rate will be used for 2021?

The NHC Commissioners set the tax rate during the county budgeting process. The 2021 tax rate will be announced by the Commissioners in Summer of 2021.

16. What percent of value does NHC tax on?

100% of market value per NC General Statue 105-283.

17. When is the next County Revaluation?

New Hanover County is scheduled to undergo a full county real property revaluation effective January 1, 2025.

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Tax Debt Service Tax Rate FAQs

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1. What is a debt fund and is this a new tax or fee? Why is it shown separately on my bill?

The debt service fund tax rate, or "debt fund" as it is abbreviated on the tax bill, is not a new tax or fee. It is a part of the overall property tax rate charged by the county. The county raised its property tax rate by 2 cents in fiscal year 2016 and by 4.9 cents in fiscal year 2017, for a total of 6.9 cents. Both of these tax rate increases were established in order to make payments on the county's voter-approved debts.

When citizens vote to approve bonds, the county issues the bonds to raise the money to fund the projects. The county must make payments to the lender, just as an individual would on their mortgage or car loan. The payments that will be made to the lender are called the debt service.

This rate is being shown separately on the tax bill and tracked separately in a debt service fund to ensure that those funds are used only for their intended purpose, which is paying the debt service payments on voter-approved bonds.

2. What do I get with the general fund tax rate?

The county provides a wide range of services for its taxpayers. As an example, the general fund tax rate is used to fund public safety, most notably law enforcement and the county jail through the Sheriff's office. It provides human services such as the county's health clinic and health services, programs for individuals and families through the Department of Social Services, and programs for the aging through the Senior Resource Center. It provides management and maintenance of our county parks, libraries and the Cape Fear Museum. Over 30 cents of the rate assists with operating and capital needs of the education system in New Hanover County through the New Hanover County Board of Education and Cape Fear Community College.

3. What are voter approved bonds?

The county has limited means in which it can borrow money. One of those methods is to ask citizens to vote on whether they want the county to borrow the money for the proposed purposes. It is made clear when the question is put to the voters that a corresponding increase in property taxes may be necessary to fund the bonds.

Once the question is put on the ballot for a vote, if a majority of citizens vote yes for the bond, the county has the authority to borrow those funds. This type of borrowing requires repayment using the county's property tax revenue.

Typically, when the county issues voter approved bonds, it makes debt service payments on those bonds for 20 years. At the end of the county's 2016 fiscal year on June 30, 2016, the county had over $337 million in outstanding voter approved bonds. This amount increases as new bonds are issued and decreases as debt service payments are made.

4. What projects are being paid for with the borrowed money?

The voter-approved debt includes projects that created parks and recreational facilities in our county, such as the expansion and improvement of Northern Regional Park and Veterans Park through the 2006 voter-approved bonds. It also includes projects to construct facilities for Cape Fear Community College, including the Union Station building, the Humanities and Fine Arts Center and the Advanced and Emerging Technologies facilities from the 2008 voter-approved bonds. Later debt approved by the voters in 2014 was for county public school facilities, which includes the construction of the new Porters Neck Elementary and the replacement of Blair Elementary and College Park Elementary.

5. Will that debt service fund tax rate change in the future or remain at 6.9 cents?

The debt service fund tax rate was developed based on the county's currently known debt service payments. However, the intent is for the tax rate to decrease as the payments on the debt decrease. The Board of Commissioners would need to enact any tax rate decrease.

Many variables go into calculating the rate, such as future interest rates and future taxable value in the county. These variables, along with others, may change the timing at which the dedicated tax rate can be changed. Any future approval by the voters of additional voter-approved debt would also change the rate needed in the debt service fund.

6. What if I didn’t vote for the bonds or I don’t use the services or facilities the borrowed money funded? Am I still required to pay the 6.9 cent tax?

Yes, even if you voted no for the bonds and even if you don't use the facilities, all of the county taxpayers must pay this rate. The majority of citizens voted yes to borrow the money and, with that vote, agreed to make payments on that borrowed money. The overall county tax rate is separated on the tax bill and tracked in separate funds to demonstrate that the funds are being spent for their intended purpose.

7. What are the other charges on my bill?

In addition to the county tax rate, which is separated into the General Fund rate and the debt fund rate, if you live in the City of Wilmington, or the towns of Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach or Kure Beach your bill will reflect the tax rate of the municipality where your property is located. If you live in the unincorporated area of New Hanover County (outside the City or the three towns) the fire services district rate will be included on your bill.

Each district or municipality is a separate unit that is authorized to charge a tax for the services that it offers. The rates are different for each district or municipality because they provide different levels of service for its taxpayers. The county collects all the taxes for these districts and municipalities and sends the tax revenue to those units. For instance, if you live in the City of Wilmington, you will see a separate rate on your bill for the City of Wilmington, which the county will collect from you and then send to the City of Wilmington. For specific questions on the rates for the City of Wilmington, Town of Carolina Beach, Town of Wrightsville Beach or the Town of Kure Beach, please contact your municipality directly as New Hanover County does not set the tax rate for those units.

Residents living in the unincorporated areas of New Hanover County will see a fire district tax rate. Only residents living in the unincorporated area pay this established rate.