The City of Wilmington is aware that fraudulent invoices have been sent to applicants requesting money via wire transfer. The emails often contain pertinent information pulled from the application (such as address, parcel number, and case number), but include a fake invoice with fabricated application fees.
Here are a few ways to spot a fraudulent invoice:
- Applications must be filed online via the City's Development and Permitting Services (DPS) platform. This platform will generate invoices for application fees, and your personal dashboard on that platform will identify any outstanding fees. You can also obtain a copy of the invoice via that platform.
- The City will never request payment via wire transfer or issue an invoice that asks you to contact someone via email or phone for them to provide the payment method. Acceptable payment types and locations are noted above.
- Many of these invoices also reference exorbitant fees. As noted, your personal dashboard in the DPS platform will identify any outstanding fees. Additionally, the City's Fee Schedule(PDF, 703KB) is established annually and posted online. Please review the permit fees to ensure you are being charged the proper amount.
If in doubt, don't hesitate to call the City's Planning Department at +1-910-254-0900 to confirm if the email or invoice you have received is authentic. Or if you have any questions about online permitting, please email planreview@wilmingtonnc.gov.