Things are changing for planning and development regulations in North Carolina! During the 2026 short session, the North Carolina General Assembly adopted an array of amendments altering local government authority for planning, zoning, building codes, and more.

This Legislative Update will explore the details of the new laws and the practical implications for local government officials. School of Government faculty members Jim Joyce, Adam Lovelady, and Taylor Morris will guide participants through the long list of changes.

Topics include:

• End of Parking Minimum Standards
• Notable Alterations to Vested Rights and Legal Standing to Appeal Decisions 
• Substantial Requirements for Fee Transparency
• New Requirements for Ordinance Interpretations 
• Changes to Home Occupation and Residential Accessory Use Rules 
• Newly-Created Buildings Codes & Interpretations Bureau  
• Mandatory Allowance for Accessory Dwelling Units in Many Cities
• And more!

Note: this Legislative Update is distinct from the general Local Government Legislative Update. For information on that session, check out this course page [link coming soon].