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1. What is zoning?

Zoning is a device used by local governments to regulate the use and development of land for the purpose of promoting the health, safety, morals, and general welfare of its citizens.

2. How do I know what zoning district my property is in?

The Planning Department maintains the Town's Official Zoning Map and can help you determine your zoning district. To view the map, visit the Maps and GIS page.

3. What is the extraterritorial jurisdiction or ETJ?

The extraterritorial jurisdiction or ETJ is the land area within a 2 mile perimeter area around the Town of Clayton corporate limits. The Town enforces land development regulations (buildings and zoning) within the ETJ. To view a map which identifies the Town limits and its ETJ, visit the Maps and GIS page.

4. How do I know if I am in the Town Limits or Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ)?

Access the Planning Department's Maps page, where you can view a map that shows the Town Limits and ETJ boundaries.

5. How can I find an address for my property?

If you don't know the address of your property, contact the Planning Department. We can help you determine the address, or assign one if needed.

6. Do the Town’s zoning regulations apply to me?

If you are located within town limits or within the Town's Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ), zoning regulations of the town apply to you. To view a map which identifies the town limits and its ETJ visit the Maps and GIS page.

7. What is allowed in each zoning district?

First determine your Zoning District by viewing the Town's Official Zoning Map, or by contacting the Planning Department. Then, visit Section 155.202 of the Unified Development Code (UDC), "Permitted Land Uses," for details on uses permitted on that property. For a definition of each type of use in the chart, and some additional standards, go to Section 155.300 of the UDC, "Use Interpretation".

View the UDC, or you can contact the Planning Department for help determining allowed uses.

Remember that before building or placing a new use on the property, you must receive the appropriate permits and approvals. Contact the Planning Department to discuss this process.

8. What are my building setbacks?

Building setbacks are based on your Zoning District and sometimes, on what subdivision you are located in or whether or not you are in an Overlay District. It is recommended that you contact the Planning Department to determine your setback requirements.

9. How do I get a survey of my property?

You will have to hire a private surveyor. The Town of Clayton does not provide property surveys. Any information provided by the Town or Johnston County, including GIS information, is intended for reference purposes only.

10. Where can I put my fence?

First, you will need to get a zoning permit (zoning compliance permit) from the Town of Clayton Planning Department. Planning Department staff will help you determine the location for your fence and make sure you do not encroach into any easements or buffer areas.

Also, if you build a fence on the property line, it becomes shared property between you and your neighbor(s). Please note that unless you have recently had your property surveyed, your estimate of the location of the property line may be off by a few inches.

Not every type of fence material is permitted - talk with staff to confirm that the type of fencing you want to put up, and the desired height and location, is permitted.

11. Where can I find a zoning or other Town map?

The Planning Department is responsible for most town maps. Please visit the Department's Maps and GIS page for a complete list of maps available to download.

12. Where do I find out about restrictive covenants and other deed restrictions?

These types of restrictions are a civil matter and do not involve the town. You should check the deed of the property in question for information on restrictions. Any further questions should be directed to your attorney.

13. Can I subdivide my property?

Depending on the size of your property and the zoning district your property is located in, you may be able to subdivide your property. Since subdividing a property can be a complicated process, please contact the Planning Department for more information and assistance.

14. What is a subdivision?

A subdivision occurs when a parcel of land is divided from a larger area. The purpose of a subdivision is to split a large tract of land into smaller ones that are easier to develop and can be developed independently of one another to increase growth and maximize the use of space.

15. What signage can I put on my property or my business?

All signs are subject to the rules and regulations of the zoning code (Unified Development Code) and require a sign permit. For a copy of the application which includes the formula for calculating the amount of signage you can have, visit the Permits and Applications page.

You can also contact the Planning Department for help in determining the signage that will be permitted on your property or business.