Onslow County implements automated permitting, cites innovation lab and strategic plan to handle growth

Onslow County Manager David Smitherman said the county has adopted a new strategic plan and is moving to automate permitting and planning processes as officials prepare for rapid population growth.

"We have gone to a complete, automated planning and permitting process, effective July 1. You can do all of your work to get a building permit online now," Smitherman said, describing the county's Onslow Innovation Lab as the vehicle for streamlining operations.

Smitherman also said the General Assembly recently approved a local special act that allows the county planning board to take action on items such as rezonings, which he said "eliminates a step and also eliminates several weeks and cost in getting development permits in the county."

Carter Metcalfe, Onslow County planning and development director, said the county upgraded its citizen self-service portal and that residential permits would be available online beginning July 1, with online payment and electronic permit delivery. Metcalfe said commercial permits and land-use applications will be added later.

"Once your permit's ready for issuance, we'll invoice it to your account. Then you can log on, pay it, and then we'll send the permit to you electronically," Metcalfe said. He said the county will hold workshops on July 8 and July 10 and provided a permitting email and phone number for assistance.

Smitherman and Metcalfe framed the changes as part of a broader effort to prepare county services and infrastructure for growth while seeking to reduce environmental impacts on waterways and preserve community character.