Annexation

Annexation is the legal process by which a city or town extends its municipal boundaries to include additional unincorporated land. In North Carolina, this process is governed primarily by Chapter 160A, Article 4A of the North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS § 160A-31 through § 160A-58.64).

There are several types of annexation, including:

- Voluntary Annexation (NCGS § 160A-31): Property owners may petition a city to be voluntarily annexed, typically when they seek access to city services such as water, sewer, or police protection.

- Contiguous Annexation: This applies when the property to be annexed directly borders the city limits.

- Non-Contiguous (Satellite) Annexation (NCGS § 160A-58.1): Allows annexation of property not directly adjoining the city, as long as it meets certain conditions.

Key requirements and procedures include:

1. Filing a petition with the city.

2. Verification of petition sufficiency by the city clerk.

3. Public notice and hearings.

4. Adoption of an annexation ordinance by the city council (if approved).

The city is also responsible for preparing a services plan that outlines how and when municipal services will be extended to the annexed area (NCGS § 160A-47 for contiguous; § 160A-58.53 for satellite).

Annexation affects governance, taxation, zoning, and access to city services for the annexed area.