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Planning and Development

PLANNING DEPARTMENT

Please Note: The Planning Department accepts site plans and subdivision plans for review only on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month.


We are excited to announce that our Citizenserve Portal is now live! This online platform provides a convenient way to submit and track applications related to planning, zoning, and code enforcement. The portal also makes it easy to communicate with our staff and check on the status of your requests anytime, from anywhere.

While we encourage and prefer all applications to be submitted through the Citizenserve Portal for faster and more efficient service, we will continue to accept walk-in and emailed applications during this transition period.

We invite you to take advantage of the ease and accessibility of the Citizenserve Portal by clicking the box below.

Planning & Zoning Department

The Planning & Zoning Department helps guide how land and property are used throughout the Town of Smithfield. We work with Town boards, residents, property owners, and businesses to ensure development complies with local ordinances while supporting the community's long-term growth and character.

Who We Serve

The Planning & Zoning Department works with:

  • Town Council
  • Planning Board
  • Historic Preservation Commission
  • Board of Adjustment
  • Residents
  • Businesses
  • Property owners
  • Developers

Our Services

We assist with a variety of planning and development services, including:

  • Zoning & Land Use – Ensuring properties are used in accordance with the Town's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO).
  • Code Enforcement – Helping maintain safe, clean, and attractive neighborhoods.
  • Rezoning Applications – Processing requests to change zoning districts.
  • Subdivision Review – Reviewing land divisions and development proposals.
  • GIS & Mapping – Maintaining official zoning maps and geographic information.
  • Property Maintenance Standards – Supporting the appearance and value of the community.
  • Development Review – Coordinating the review of commercial and residential development projects.

Starting a New Business in Smithfield

Before opening your business, all applicable approvals must be completed. Follow the steps below to begin the process.

Step 1: Apply for a Zoning Permit

Every new business, change of tenant, or change of ownership must obtain a Zoning Permit from the Town of Smithfield Planning & Zoning Department before opening or operating.

Town Hall
350 E. Market Street
Smithfield, NC 27577

Step 2: Obtain a Building Inspection (If Required)

Some businesses may require a building permit and inspection before occupancy.

  • Complete the Building Permit Application, if applicable.
  • Contact Johnston County Building Inspections at (919) 989-5060.

Johnston County Land Use Center
308 E. Market Street
Smithfield, NC 27577

Step 3: Schedule a Fire Inspection (If Required)

If your business requires a fire inspection:

  • Complete the Fire Inspection Application.
  • Contact the Smithfield Fire Department at (919) 934-2468.

Smithfield Fire Department
111 S. Fourth Street
Smithfield, NC 27577

Step 4: Establish Utility Service

Once all required approvals have been completed, establish utility service with the Town of Smithfield.

  • Contact Customer Service at (919) 934-2116 ext. 1105 or ext. 1113.

Town Hall
350 E. Market Street
Smithfield, NC 27577

Need Assistance?

The Planning & Zoning Department is here to help throughout the development process from opening a new business to understanding zoning regulations and development requirements.

Planning & Zoning Department
Town of Smithfield
350 E. Market Street
Smithfield, NC 27577

Planning & Zoning Department Contacts

Micah Woodard

Senior Planner
Phone: (919) 934-2116 ext. 1112

Brent Reck

Planning Director
Phone: (919) 934-2116 ext. 1114

Julie Edmonds

Administrative Support Specialist / Planning Technician
Phone: (919) 934-2116 ext. 1111

Brian Brown

Code Enforcement Officer
Phone: (919) 934-2116 ext. 1116