Winston-Salem City Code - Terms & Definitions
This guide explains key terms and definitions used in the city code and municipal bylaws that apply in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It helps residents, business owners, contractors, and enforcement officers find authoritative meanings, understand who enforces specific rules, and follow the correct steps for permits, complaints, and appeals. Use the linked official code and city department pages to confirm definitions before filing applications or contesting enforcement actions.[1]
Common City Terms and Where to Find Them
The municipal code organizes defined terms in chapter and section headings; common entries include definitions for "building", "structure", "nuisance", "use", "occupancy", and specific permit categories. When a term is capitalized in a section, check the code's definitions section for the precise legal meaning used throughout the ordinance.
- Search the municipal code for a chapter titled "Definitions" or a section named "Definitions" to find exact wording.
- Review zoning and land-development chapters for use-specific terms that differ from general definitions.
- Consult building and inspections sections for construction-related definitions and standards.
Penalties & Enforcement
The municipal code assigns enforcement responsibility and describes penalties and remedies for violations of city ordinances. Specific fine amounts, escalation, and schedules vary by chapter and are often stated where the offense is codified; if a numeric fine or schedule is not listed in a chapter, the general penalty provisions in the code or the enforcing department's procedures apply. The consolidated code should be consulted for chapter-specific penalties.[1]
- Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page for general definitions; check the specific ordinance chapter for dollar amounts.
- Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offences are set per ordinance or by reference to general penalty provisions; not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: may include abatement orders, stop-work orders, permit suspension, property liens, seizure, or referral to civil or criminal court where authorized.
- Enforcer: departmental enforcement is typically handled by Planning and Development Services, Building Inspections, Police, or Environmental Health depending on the topic; see the city departments listed below for contacts.
- Inspections and complaints: file complaints or request inspections through the appropriate city department's official contact or online reporting form.
- Appeals and review: appeals (for example, to a Board of Adjustment or similar appeals board) and time limits are set in the controlling ordinance or administrative rules; if a time limit is not shown in the specific section, check the applicable appeals chapter or rules.
Applications & Forms
Many definitions correlate to permits or forms (zoning permits, building permits, business licenses). Where a form exists, the code or the enforcing department will reference the application name or form number; if no form is published in the code text, the department maintains the applicable application online or at its office.
- Permit applications: available from Planning and Development Services or Building Inspections; fees and submission method are provided on the department's official pages.
- Deadlines: application-specific timelines (completeness review, appeal filing periods) are set by ordinance or departmental rule and must be confirmed with the department.
How enforcement typically works
When a complaint is received, the appropriate enforcement division opens an investigation, issues notices or orders if a violation is found, and records actions. Multiple remedies may be pursued concurrently, such as abatement plus civil fines. The enforcement notice normally describes appeal rights and any time limit for filing an appeal.
- Common violations: zoning violations, unpermitted construction, unsafe building conditions, nuisance property maintenance, and unlicensed business operations.
- Typical penalties: vary by ordinance; check chapter-specific language for monetary ranges or refer to general penalty provisions.
FAQ
- Where can I find the legal definition of a term used in a Winston-Salem ordinance?
- Look in the municipal code's "Definitions" section for the chapter that contains the ordinance; the consolidated code is the authoritative source.[1]
- Who enforces code violations and how do I file a complaint?
- Enforcement depends on the subject matter—Planning and Development Services, Building Inspections, Police, or Environmental Health handle most complaints; use the department contact or online reporting page listed under Help and Support / Resources below.
- How do I appeal an enforcement decision?
- Appeals are governed by the ordinance and may go to a Board of Adjustment or hearing officer; the enforcement notice and the applicable chapter describe appeal steps and time limits.
How-To
- Identify the term in the municipal code that applies to your issue.
- Contact the relevant city department listed in Help and Support / Resources to confirm applicability and forms.
- Obtain and submit any required permit or application and pay applicable fees.
- If cited, follow the notice for appeal steps and file within the stated time limit.
Key Takeaways
- Defined terms in the municipal code control the meaning used in ordinances.
- Enforcement and appeals follow chapter-specific procedures; confirm with the department.
- When in doubt, consult the official code and the city department before applying or appealing.
Help and Support / Resources
- Winston-Salem Code of Ordinances (official)
- Planning & Development Services - City of Winston-Salem
- Building Inspections - City of Winston-Salem
- Boards and Commissions - City of Winston-Salem