PLANNING DEPARTMENT

The Planning Department provides services and staffing to a number of different constituencies within the
Town of Smithfield. These entities include:

• Town Council and its members
• Planning and Zoning Board
• Historic Preservation Commission
• Board of Adjustment
• Appearance Commission
• Residents, businesses, and property owners 

Within these services, the department assists property owners, residents, businesses, and development interests in interpreting the town's regulations and requirements for land use in this community related to:

• Enforcement of ordinances, regulations, and requirements relating to land use and site planning to ensure environmental protection, preserve community character, and promote best development practices as were intended by their creation
• Administration of the process for changes in a parcel's zoning
• Government of all divisions of property, as well as requirements for their design and service, under the town's subdivision code
• Maintenance of the town's GIS program and all official town maps
• Administration of property maintenance requirements to ensure that existing land, buildings, and structures are maintained at a minimum level, thereby guaranteeing the value of the improvement is preserved, and the surrounding neighborhood character is protected.

NEW BUSINESS IN SMITHFIELD

Get started by following these steps:

1. A Zoning Permit for your business is issued by the Town of Smithfield Planning and Zoning Department. A

completed zoning permit application must be provided for full consideration. Planning Department personnel can

assist you by calling 919-934-2116 ext. 1112 or visit us at Smithfield Town Hall, located at 350 East Market Street.

2. Building Safety Inspection of the work space you plan to use for business purposes may be required. You must

contact Johnston County Building Inspections at 919-989-5060 to schedule this inspection or visit Johnston

County Land Use Center at 308 East Market Street.

3. Fire Safety Inspection of the work space you plan to use for business purposes may be required. You must

contact the Smithfield Fire Department at 919-934-2468 or visit them at 111 South Fourth Street.

4. Business Licenses are only required for businesses involved in the sale of alcohol. Finance Department personnel

can assist you by calling 919-934-2116 ext. 1135 or visit us at Smithfield Town Hall located at 350 East Market

Street.

5. Utility Services can be established once the above steps have been completed by contacting a utility customer

service representative at 919-934-2116 ext. 1105 or ext.1113 or visit us at Smithfield Town Hall, located at 350 East Market Street.