Frequently Asked Questions

The population is approximately 104,167.

The tax rate for fiscal year 2025-2026 is $0.4448 per $100 valuation. Property taxes in North Carolina are due September 1 of each year. They are payable at par through January 5th, 2026.

On January 6th, 2026, 2% interest is added to the current year outstanding balance. Interest continues to accrue on the unpaid balance at the rate of 3/4 of one percent per month for each subsequent month until it is paid.

The general fund budget for fiscal year 2025-2026 is $160,927,630.

The convenience centers are open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

You can visit the solid waste and recycling page to view the collection day.

Visit the solid waste and recycling page to see where you can buy garbage stickers.

You can register to vote on the North Carolina State Board of Elections website.

Visit the planning and inspections page to get a permit.

Visit the Register of Deeds page to see how you can obtain a birth or death certificate copy of a marriage license.

Craven County does not issue business licenses. However, the Craven County Tax Department should be contacted concerning business tax status.

Passport applications can be made at the main U.S. Post Office at:

1851 S Glenburnie Road

New Bern, NC 28562

You may find information on the volunteer boards and apply through the on-line application process at https://onboard.cravencountync.gov/apply/.

Applying for WIC is simple. You can call ahead to begin the process or walk-in to our New Bern or Havelock offices to apply. Depending on the availability, you may be seen that day to be added, or given an appointment to return to complete the application process with the nutritionist.

Income is determined by the total household gross income, not just the income of the parent. There are several factors counting toward income, so if you are unsure whether or not you will qualify, please stop by and we will determine whether you are eligible. The guidelines can be found on the North Carolina State WIC website.

You will need an appointment in order to add your new baby to WIC, and get your updated food package. To ensure you get in as soon as possible after delivery, call at your earliest convenience, and tell us when you will be available to come in. You need to bring your infant to this appointment.

The staff will take all of your new baby information, including name, birth date, length, and weight. When you come in for the appointment, your baby will be added to the program, and you will receive an updated food package and postpartum/new baby nutrition education. Access the new baby add form. This will tell you what to bring, and who to call after you have your baby.

No. We do take participants from surrounding counties, however; please be aware that all surrounding counties do have a WIC office, and we encourage you go there to receive WIC.

eWIC is an EBT card that you can use to purchase food benefits. The card will allow you the freedom to buy individual foods, as needed. You will be able to check your balance online and at the grocery store. If you have any questions about your eWIC please call the WIC office at 252-636-4920 ext. 2018. 

Our appointments at the New Bern office are same, or next day availability. Havelock appointments are within one week, depending on the appointment type.

Depending on the type of appointment and schedule, it could last over an hour. If you just need to receive food benefits, it should take less than 30 minutes. If you are adding a new baby, new child, or yourself to the program, it will be a longer appointment.

To help shorten the number of stops you have to make, bring a copy of your child's most recent measurements from the doctor. If they are less than 2 months old, we can use them to avoid having to measure your child.

This depends on the appointment. If you are coming to be added to the program, or a re-certification appointment you will need to bring:

• ID for you and your child (for the child, it can be a shot record, social security card, or insurance card)
• Proof of income (Medicaid card, paycheck stubs)
• Proof of residence (can be a bill or your drivers license)
• Your child

If you are coming for food benefits only, you will need your WIC booklet and your ID. You will not need to bring your child. If you are unsure what type of appointment you have, call us and we will verify it for you.

No. We need to see your child for their certification, and re-certification appointments. If you are unsure if that is the appointment you have coming up, call us and we will tell you whether or not you need to bring your child.

WIC strongly encourages moms to breastfeed, however, some moms choose not, or cannot breastfeed. In these circumstances, WIC provides infant formulas. We have milk and soy based formulas that do not require prescriptions.

If your child cannot tolerate our contract formulas, we do provide alternative and specialty formulas with a prescription from your baby's doctor. If your baby's doctor feels they need a different formula, they need to complete our WIC prescription form. Craven County pediatricians have copies of these forms. If you would like a copy to take with you to the doctor, you can click here to access an electronic copy, or stop by our office, and we will give you one to take with you.

New Bern

• Broad Mini Mart
• Harris Teeter in Carolina Pines
• Harris Teeter in New Bern
• Food Lion on Glenburnie Rd.
• Food Lion on Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
• Food Lion in James City
• Piggly Wiggly on Simmons St.
• Piggly Wiggly on Tatum Dr.      
• Publix
• Wal-Mart on Martin Luther King Blvd
• Wal-Mart on Neuse Boulevard

Vanceboro

• Food Lion
• Kite's

Bridgeton

• Food Lion

Havelock

• Food Lion on Main Street
• MCAS Cherry Point Commissary
• Wal-Mart

To protect not only your own health, but other persons as well by assuring that your pet remains healthy for ten days after the incident.

No. You will assure the safety of yourself and others that may come in contact with the pet by knowing that it was quarantined for 10 days and properly vaccinated.

By observing the animal for 10 days we are assured that the pet could not have been shedding the rabies virus in its saliva at the time of the bite or scratch. No vaccine is 100% effective 100% of the time.

Many animals lick their feet, especially cats. Dogs frequently lay with their heads (mouths) on their feet, subsequently putting potentially infectious saliva in direct contact with their toenails.

Not usually. In most cases we will allow you to quarantine your pet at home if you have a secure area for your dog or if you are willing to keep your cat in the house for the 10 days. If you cannot provide secure quarantine we may require that you board your pet at your veterinarian's office or at the animal shelter at your own expense. You may reclaim your pet at the end of the 10 day period.

Most bites/scratches are accidental, caused by stepping on your cats tail, or playing too rough with your dog. Other bites are generally "provoked". In the dog's point of view you teased, scared, threatened, surprised, interrupted or in some other way caused a fear response.

An animal bite is not a statement of the dog's viciousness; it usually indicates that the dog has not been properly socialized or trained. The majority of animals that bite are sexually intact. Spay or neuter your pets.

Even so-called "house dogs" go out to use the bathroom and house cats can escape. In the length of time it takes for the dog to potty, it could come in contact with a sick bat or the cat could surprise a raccoon or other wild animal.

Only a laboratory test of the animals brain tissue can definitely diagnose Rabies Virus. Rabies is a viral disease affecting the central nervous system. Early signs are behavioral and may include hiding, refusal to interact with family members, in general just not "feeling good".

Other symptoms may be inability to walk or stand, excessive salivation (due to throat and jaw muscles becoming paralyzed) and finally convulsions and/or excessively aggressive behavior.

In this area, vaccination fees range from $10 to $20 and only a licensed veterinarian or a Certified Rabies Vaccinator can administer the vaccine. Craven Pamlico Animal Services Center has Certified Rabies Vaccinators on staff that can administer a one-year vaccine only. The cost is $10. Three-year vaccines may be administered by a licensed veterinarian only.

Failure to provide proof of rabies vaccination is a criminal offense, punishable under NCGS 130A-185. Court costs, plus other fines can be levied. Other local penalties may also apply.

If your pet does get rabies and subsequently exposes you or someone else to the virus, it can cost thousands of dollars to treat that person. You could also be subject to civil prosecution by the victims.

Wash the wound with soap and water for 15 minutes. Yes, that is a long time but, it has been proven to be effective in removing the rabies virus. Notify your family physician and local Health Department providing information as to the owner of the animal, description of the animal and its location. If you don't, you could get rabies.

Wildlife are protected in NC and can only be removed from a property by a licensed wildlife depradation agent. To find one in your area: NC Licensed Wildlife Depredation Agents.

City of New Bern residents should contact the City of New Bern Animal Control Department at 252-633-2020.

If you turned off the ice machine before the hurricane, the ice should be safe. Ice machines that were not turned off should be drained or remove ice and cleaned with a mild sanitizing solution of chlorine and water. Pipes and tubes must also be cleaned.

You must contact the Division of Environmental Health, before re-opening. You can also review guidelines for re-opening your restaurant.

6 hours, provided the door remains closed most of the time. 12 hours in the freezer. Check the temperature of the food. If it is over 40 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 hours, discard, if it is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, cook or refreeze.

Don't rely on the odor or appearance. Never taste food to determine its safety. Use a thermometer to check the temperature. When in doubt, throw it out!

Cook the food immediately and eat or freeze. Partially thawed frozen food with ice crystals may be re-frozen.

Wash with soap and cold water and use rubbing alcohol afterwards or a chlorine dip (1 teaspoon of household bleach per gallon of water). Hand sanitizers may be used also, but only after washing with soap and water.

Do not handle food if you have cuts, sores, or open wounds on your hands or fingers. If you are coughing, sneezing, or have a runny nose, you should not handle food.

Plastic gloves are recommended, but this does not eliminate the necessity for proper hand washing. Hands must be washed before and after gloves are used. Gloves must be changed often.

Use only pre-prepared canned baby formula until you are notified that the water is safe to drink.

No! Floodwaters can be contaminated with industrial waste, chemicals, or sewage. Also, do not allow children to play with toys that have been contaminated by flood waters.

Wait until the refrigerator temperature reaches 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

(252) 636-4920, option 2.

You should bring photo ID, proof of income, and insurance.

We accept cash, check, credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover), and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard).

Job postings remain on the site until the closing date which is at least five business days from the date of issue for in-house postings and at least seven days for all postings open to the public.

Applications for these positions are only available in the Sheriff's Office, located at:

1100 Clarks Road

New Bern, NC 28562

Call 252-636-6620 for information.

Craven County cannot accept applications submitted past the official closing date listed on the vacancy announcement.

Employees hired by Craven County, whose immediate past employer within the last ninety (90) days was the State of North Carolina, any of its political subdivisions, any local government entity or authority, or municipality in North Carolina, may transfer to the County any unused sick leave, provided the employee has not requested, or is receiving, retirement benefits from the North Carolina Retirement System. The employee must request this transfer within ninety (90) days of the beginning of employment with Craven County, and it is the responsibility of the employee to provide bona-fide documentation of the amount of unused sick leave from the immediate past employer. Upon verification of the unused sick leave by Human Resources, the employee will be credited with the transferred sick leave.  Annual leave cannot be transferred to Craven County.

Craven County residency is not required on most jobs. If it is a requirement, it will so state in the advertisement. Non-US citizens must be able to show proof they can work legally in this country and present documents verifying immigration status.

You may attach a resumé, however you must also complete all mandatory sections of the online application, including the work history section of the application, in order for your application to receive consideration.

You must submit a separate application for each position for which you would like to be considered.

To obtain a work permit you may apply online with the North Carolina Department of Labor or go to your local Department of Social Services.

New positions are posted as they become available, usually several times a week. You may wish to check our website weekly.

You will receive an email to the email address used in your online governmentjobs.com profile about your referral status once the position has been filled.

All applicants are assessed relative to the qualifications listed on the job posting. Only those applicants who meet the stated qualifications are eligible for consideration. If a pre-employment test is required, you will be contacted for an appointment. Meeting the minimum qualifications of the posting does not automatically mean that you will be referred for the position posted as all applicants are assessed on a competitive basis.

The Human Resources Department is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday through Friday.

The Department Head or designee will contact you to arrange an interview.

The Craven County Employment webpage is updated regularly. If the position for which you submitted your application is not listed, it is no longer available.

A continuous or open until filled closing date means that the vacancy does not have a closing date. Applications will be reviewed as received until the position is filled.

No, State law allows applicants to not disclose any arrest, charge, or conviction that has been expunged.

No. Contact the Craven County Planning Department at 252-636-6618 for information regarding street signs within the County for further assistance. 

No. Craven County Maintenance is only responsible for physical buildings and grounds related to Craven County Government. Most road conditions issues would either be handled by the City of New Bern public works if the issue falls within city limits, and/or North Carolina Department of Transportation if it is outside the city limits.

No, Craven County Maintenance does not take care of these items.  If you live within a Municipality (such as New Bern, Havelock, Vanceboro, etc.) city limits they are responsible for the vegetation growth around the roadways.  If you live in the County these roadways are the responsibility of North Carolina DOT phone number (252)649-6550.

No, Craven County Facilities Maintenance takes care of the approximate 45 buildings, facilities, and associated grounds that belong to Craven County Government.

No, Craven County Schools have there on maintenance and grounds that take care of the needs of the schools in Craven County. The Airport, also, has there on maintenance and grounds. 

The phone number is 252-636-6609.

Anyone who lives in Craven, Jones, or Pamlico counties can ride CARTS.

Contact our office at 252-636-4917 and let us know that you want to be put into our system to ride CARTS.  If you are on Medicaid, you must contact the Medicaid Transportation Worker at the Department of Social Services.  If you are of the age of 60 or older and/or are disabled, you would be eligible for our EDTAP program.  You must fill out and application and send it in to our office with a picture of your picture ID and proof of disability if you are disabled.

The cost depends on mileage you are traveling.  If you live within our fixed loop route, the cost is $1 per ride.  If you do not live within our fixed loop route and you want to book a public trip, the cost will be anywhere from $3.25 - $5.00 per ride depending on how far you are traveling.  If you live within Jones and Pamlico Counties and you are traveling to Craven County, the cost is $2.00 per ride.

Please refer to the Craven County Regional Airport Height Control Ordinance and the Marine Corps Air Station Zoning Ordinance for further information. Although there is currently no county-wide zoning ordinances for Craven County, you may live within the jurisdictional boundaries of a municipality that does have a zoning ordinance.

Please refer to the Permit Applications page for a brief overview of each application. The applications can be downloaded and printed in the convenience of your home.

Land development permits can be applied for and received from the County Planning and Inspections Department located at 2828 Neuse Boulevard in New Bern.

NC General Statutes require a permit to be obtained if a building, structure, or service system is erected, constructed, enlarged, installed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, or demolished. If you build without obtaining the necessary permits, you will be asked to stop work and obtain the necessary permits. If you continue, a written stop work order will be issued.

To receive a building permit you must complete and submit a general information form, building inspection application (specific to your project), a septic/sewer permit, 3 copies of drawings, and a plot plan. Please note the inspector may contact you requiring additional information upon plan review/

The amount of time it takes to process a permit is dependent upon the nature of the permit for which you are applying.

The Planning Department can determine if your property is within a flood zone. Please have a street address or parcel ID Number available for reference. This information is also available from the North Carolina Flood Risk Information System (FRIS). If you need help with the site, Planning may be able to provide some assistance 252-636-6618.

If your home is located within a flood zone; you may need an elevation certificate or surveyed plot plan with information, along with a flood development permit.

A completed application, a septic permit, and an elevation certificate (if your home is located within a flood zone) are necessary before a mobile home permit can be issued.

According to NC State Statute 130 - A 333 - 345 the sewer or septic source must be verified before a development permit may be issued.

Only one final inspection is required on a single-wide mobile home. We will make inspections on marriage walls of double and triple-wide units.

Zones are determined by the NC Department of Insurance and are dependent on how close the property is to the ocean. Zone I is for interior counties and Zone III is for coastal counties. Craven County has been designated as Zone II.

The zone rating of a home is determined by how the home is constructed and anchored down. The zone rating of a home cannot be changed after construction, except by an engineer licensed in North Carolina.

Upon purchase of the permit, the permit holder must call the inspections department during business hours with the correct permit number to request an inspection. It is customary that the inspection will be performed within the next two days. Your inspection will be done as soon as possible, however we cannot promise an exact time. You may call the inspections office after 8:30 am on the date of your inspection to find out whether it will be am or pm. Inspectors will attempt to accommodate your schedule but due to the size of Craven County, this cannot be guaranteed.

Once your permit is issued, you have six months after the date of issuance to begin work on your permitted project. Once an inspection has been done, you have one year until your next inspection is required, or the permit will "expire" in our permitting system. This rule applies to all future inspections on this permit.

You do not have to be present during any inspection, unless you are an owner/builder. If due to the nature of the inspection, interior access is required accommodations should be made in anticipation of your inspection prior to the inspector's arrival at the inspection location. 

There will be a sticker left at the job site to inform you of to the status of your inspection.

• A green sticker means you can proceed with construction (be sure to read all notes).
• A red sticker means your inspection has failed.

The items listed on the sticker must be corrected and a re-inspection must be scheduled and passed before proceeding onto the next level of construction. If no notes are left on the sticker, please call the office between 4 pm and 5 pm to speak with the inspector concerning your failed inspection.

Your electrical supply company will be notified (by the inspector or office personnel) on the same day the inspection is passed. After they have been notified, the time in which power is placed at a site varies. We suggest you contact the electrical supply company prior to your inspection and make sure they have been given proper information and all applicable fees are paid to ensure service is connected in a timely manner. Their information (names and addresses) must match what we have in our system. They will also need a valid approval for an existing septic system or a valid operation permit from Environmental Health on a newly installed septic system.

You may contact the Inspections Department at 252-636-4987 during business hours on the day following your scheduled inspection and speak with a permit technician. If you have a technical question concerning a failed inspection, it is important that you speak with your inspector between the hours of 8 to 9 am or 4 to 5 pm.

Information on the NC State Building Code can be accessed at via the North Carolina Department of Insurance. Select “Office of State Fire Marshal” and then “Engineering and Codes Division”.

Normal hours of operation are 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

Applications for septic tank permits (Improvement Permits) are applied for at Craven County Planning & Inspections (252) 636-4987 or (252) 636-6618.  Fees are paid at the time the application is made.  Fee Schedule

If you are buying an existing restaurant, please fill out the New Owner Restaurant Permit Application (Transitional). 

If you are starting a restaurant in a new facility, please fill out the Food Service Plan Review Application and submit it to the Craven County Health Department. A proposed menu and scale drawings (blue prints) of the establishment, equipment, plumbing, and lighting will also have to be submitted to the health department. The applicaiton must also include the manufacturer's specification forms of the equipment (can be found on the manufacturers website).

First, check to see if a permit is available through the Craven County Geographic Information System (GIS). If a permit can not be located by this method, complete and submit a "Request for Document: Septic tank systems and Wells" form.

Go to cravencountync.gov/gis. Once you get there, click "iMaps" and then "Start iMaps". It will bring you to the map of Craven County with fields to enter your information. Enter one of the following, your name, address or the parcel number for the property. The property information will pop up with several tabs at the top of the page. Click on the "EH Permits.A list of permits will pop up with the "View" button next to it.  Click on the one with the complete information regarding your septic system which will be "Operation Permit".You should be able to view and print permits issued between 2003 to the current year.

Applications for septic tank permits are applied for at the Craven County Planning and Inspection office located at: 2828 Neuse Blvd., New Bern, NC 28562. You can also reach them by calling: (252) 636-4987. Fees are paid at the time the application is made.

A list of contractors and inspectors certified to work in North Carolina can be found at https://ncowcicb.info/.

To acquire a permit as a food vendor for a festival, an Application for a Temporary Food Establishment (TFE) has to be filled out and submitted to the Craven County Health Department along with a $75 application fee. The application will also require an attached drawing of your TFE layout.  All applications for TFEs must be submitted 15 days prior to the event in order to receive a permit.

All caterers must prepare food in a licensed and inspected commercial kitchen. To find out more about opening a commercial catering kitchen, please review our Food Service Establishment Permit & Plan Review Application.

Information about the ServSafe Classes and Exam Proctoring at the Craven County Health Department can be found here.

1. Open your Internet browser.
2. Enter in your search bar “Craven County Department of Environmental Health.”
3. The webpage is titled “Environmental Health | Craven County.”
4. Scroll down the webpage until you see a subsection titled “Sanitation Inspection Reports.”
5. Click on the available link for Sanitation Inspection Reports.
6. You will be taken to the Inspection Management System called CDP.
7. To find the establishment you would like to review, type the establishment name into the box labeled “Enter Establishment Name Containing.” This can be the full title or just keywords.
8. Once you have entered the establishment name/keyword, press Enter. A list of establishments with that name/keyword will appear.
9. Locate the establishment in question. Some establishments have multiple locations in Craven County, such as McDonald’s - in the column entitled ‘Address’ you can narrow down your search to the correct establishment.
   1. Some establishments can be under separate Establishment Types (a nursing home can show up as a Nursing Home and Institutional Food Service, for example), so look at the far-right column to ensure you have selected the correct Establishment Type for inspection review.
10. Once you have located the appropriate establishment, you can click “View Inspection Form” to look at the full inspection form, or “Violations” to view the violations and general comments.
    1. “View Inspection Form” will show the inspection form, temperature logs, violations, and corrective actions, in addition to the general comments; “Violations” will show the critical and non-critical violations, point deductions and corrective actions for violations, general comments, and the status of repeat violations. Additionally, these pages will include links to corresponding Rules Governing Inspection Scores for available establishment types.
11. To view previous inspections of an establishment, click “Return to Inspections.” To return to the search page, click “Return to Premises Lookup.”

The last day, to exchange the orange trash stickers is December 29, 2017, and our office closes at 5:00pm. Orange stickers may be exchanged at the Craven County Solid Waste Department, 406 Craven Street, either in person or by mail. Orange stickers can be turned in for red stickers with additional money. The County will not refund any money, only exchange stickers with additional purchase of orange stickers. Time to exchange stickers will expire December 29, 2017. 

No, for our area it is considered refuse. Citizens can put these items in household refuse or take to one of the seven (7) convenience sites, free of charge.

No, these items are not accepted by our Electronic Recycling Contractor.  These items can be taken to any of the seven (7) convenience sites, free of charge.

If the boat is whole, it can be taken to the Tuscarora landfill at 7400 Old Highway 70 West, (252) 633-1564, and pay for disposal at their current rates. If the boat is broken into pieces that can fit easily into the cans at the convenience sites, citizens can dispose of it at the convenience sites. If taking your broken boat to one of the convenience sites, it is recommended that you call ahead to ensure the site has adequate space for this material, as the more popular sites can fill up containers quickly at any given time. 

This is something that citizens will have to contract out privately, as the convenience sites are not equipped to handle a large amount of oil/heating fuel.  A resource to contact is Noble Oil, at 800-662-5364.

Citizens can take a junk car to any scrap metal dealer. A resource to contact is, Foss Recycling, (252)447-8618 / (866)534-5865 OR Mills Auto Salvage Sales, (252) 244-2922.

No, the County does not have any shredding events. However, the convenience sites will accept shredded paper from citizens who shred their own paper, free of charge. Citizens can either shred their own material or can contract out that service privately. 

The County makes notifications using several methods:

1. Via the Solid Waste page on the website (www.cravencountync.gov).
2. Via the County's social media (Facebook and Twitter).
3. Via the local newspapers (Sun Journal, Havelock News).
4. Via the Solid Waste message line (252) 636-6659.
5. Citizens may sign up for notifications on the Solid Waste page.

Yes, Craven County Sheriff Department has a drop off box in the main lobby of the Judicial Center, 1100 Clarks Road, New Bern. Open to the public Monday thru Friday, 8:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information, call (252) 636-6620.

Craven County residents are encouraged to protect their families and the community by safely disposing of unused or expired medications at a medication drop box. Click here for a list of locations.

Used kitty litter is best taken to any one of the seven (7) convenience sites, and does not require a refuse sticker for disposal. Hint: Citizens can change used litter more frequently using less litter. By doing this, it can be put into smaller bags for easier disposal. 

Yes, the Tuscarora landfill does sponsor a Household Hazardous Waste event once a year. Generally it is the second Saturday of October and is held at Craven Community College. For confirmation of date and location contact the Tuscarora landfill at (252) 633-1564. The site is located at 7400 Old Highway 70 West, New Bern, NC and is open Monday-Friday from 7:30 am until 4:30 pm and on Saturday from 7:30 am until 2:00 pm. 

On Monday, May 15, 2017, Craven County Commissioners voted to increase the trash sticker from (yellow) $2.25 to (red) $3.00. The increase was effective July 1, 2017.

Monday through Friday 8AM to 5PM

When you submit an application, your caseworker will give you a detailed list of the things needed to process your application. The items listed below are needed for most applications. Every item may not apply to your case.

DON'T PUT OFF APPLYING FOR BENEFITS WHILE COLLECTING THESE ITEMS!! If you are determined to be eligible for benefits, they will be effective from the date a signed application is received in the agency once all necessary items are received. Also, your caseworker may be able to help with locating some of this information.

• A picture ID, like a driver's license. Otherwise, bring some form of identification.
• Social Security cards for all household members. You will at least need the numbers when you apply.
• Birth verification, i.e. birth certificates
• Proof of rent or mortgage payments
• Proof of utility payments at your residence
• Recent checking and/or savings account statements.
• If you are employed, pay stubs for the last two months.
• Proof of any other income including unemployment and Social Security.
• If you pay for child care, proof of these payments.
• If you pay or receive child support, you will need proof of this activity.
• Applicants for Pregnancy Medicaid (MPW) need proof of their pregnancy.

Every situation is different and you may be asked to provide additional items. Hopefully, this list gives you an idea of the kind of information Social Services must collect. REMEMBER,

IF YOU PUT OFF SUBMITTING YOUR APPLICATION WHILE YOU COLLECT THESE ITEMS, YOU MAY BE LOSING VALUABLE BENEFITS!

For a Deputy to respond our operating hours are 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

EMERGENCY dial 911, for non emergency dial 252-633-2357.

Business Office hours at 1100 Clarks Rd. are Monday thru Friday 8am to 5pm.

The Sheriff's Office accepts cash only for most transactions.  There is no ATM machine at the office, and we cannot accept Credit cards

Concealed Carry Permits - We accept checks, if applied for online you can pay with credit Card

Pistol Purchase Permits - Cash Only, if applied for online you can pay with credit Card

Legal Paper service- Cash Only

Fingerprints - Cash Only 

Craven County Water is open Monday through Friday from 8:00am until 5:00pm. However, if you need to set up new service in the office, we request that you come in no later than 4:30pm to allow us time to process your paperwork. We will be closed during the same holidays as other Craven County Government. 

A System Pressure Advisory (SPA) is a public statement advising customers to boil tap water before consuming it. Advisories are issued when an event has occurred allowing the possibility for the water distribution system to become contaminated. An advisory does not mean that the water is contaminated, but rather that it could be contaminated; because the water quality is unknown, customers should assume the water is unsafe to drink and take the appropriate precautions until water samples can be tested. A System Pressure Advisory is different from a Boil Water Notice, which is issued when contamination is confirmed in the water system. During a notice, all customers must boil their water before consuming it or use bottled water. 

What actions do I need to take?

If a system pressure advisory is issued, it is recommended all water used for human consumption be boiled but it is not mandatory.   Recommendations include bringing all water to a rolling boil, let it boil for one minute, and cool before using; or use bottled water. It is recommended to use boiled or bottled water for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth and food preparation until you are notified that the advisory has been lifted.  

The following steps are also recommended:

• Throw away uncooked food or beverages or ice cubes if made with tap water during the day of the advisory
• Keep boiled water in the refrigerator for drinking
• Do not swallow water while you are showering or bathing
• Provide pets with boiled water after cooling
• Do not use home filtering devices in place of boiling or using bottled water; Most home water filters will not provide adequate protection from microorganisms
• Use only boiled water to treat minor injuries; When showering or bathing, avoid allowing the water to come in contact with an open wound
• Do not wash salad items with tap water during the period; Use bottled water or freshly boiled and cooled tap water

How long does a system pressure advisory last until it can be lifted?

A System Pressure Advisory or Notice will remain in effect until test samples show the water is safe to drink. Testing for bacteria requires 18 to 24 hours to complete, depending on the type of test used. A notification will be sent out to either rescind the System Pressure Advisory if water samples test negative for bacteria or if samples test positive for bacteria, an official Boil Water Advisory will be issued.

Since an advisory is a precautionary measure, will I get sick if I drink the water? What if I drank some of the water before I found out about the advisory?

Until test results show the water is safe to drink, you should not drink the water without boiling it first. During an advisory, chances are if you are in good health, you will not get sick from drinking the water; however, young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems should not drink the water until it is deemed safe to drink. Symptoms of illness caused by bacteria in the water may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. Please note that these symptoms are not caused only by organisms in drinking water. If you experience any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.

What should I do once the advisory is lifted?

Customers under a system pressure advisory can resume normal water usage when the notice is lifted without taking additional measures. If you experience cloudy or discolored water, you should run your faucets for a few minutes until the water runs clear.

Can I use the water for showering and bathing?

Yes. Just be careful not the drink the water while you shower or bathe or to allow the water to get into any open wounds.

Can I use the water for laundry?

Yes, it is OK to do laundry.

Can I use the water for washing dishes?

It is recommended affected customers not use the dishwasher because the water temperature in most dishwashers does not reach the boiling point. Dishes should be hand-washed with water that has been boiled first. Or, you can use hot, soapy water and add one tablespoon of bleach per gallon as a precaution, and rinse dishes in cooled water that has been boiled first.  

Do I still need to boil my water if I have a filter system on my faucet or refrigerator?

Most point-of-use filters are designed to improve the aesthetics of water (improve taste and odor), and not to remove harmful bacteria. You can learn about the capability of your filter by contacting the manufacturer. If in doubt, you should boil your water or use bottled water even if you have a filtering system

How long is boiled water safe to drink?

Once the water has been boiled, you can cover it and put it in the refrigerator for later use. As long as the water is protected from contamination, it will stay safe to drink.

Should I flush my house pipes? 

Craven County will notify you if it is necessary to flush household pipes and will provide instructions to take prior to using the water in the event of a mandatory boil water advisory. Flushing simply means letting the water run to ensure that no contaminated water remains in your pipes. If customers are advised to flush household plumbing, the guidelines will likely include:

• Run all cold water faucets in your home for at least five minutes at one time with the highest water flow possible to prevent splashing or flooding of the drains
• To flush automatic ice makers, make three batches of ice and discard
• Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.  Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines specified in the owner’s manual
• Run drinking water fountains and water coolers with direct water connections for at least five minutes at the highest flow rate possible
• Change refrigerator filters

Craven County Water covers a wide spread and diverse population. We service many of the areas outside of city limits. We service portions of Harlowe and Havelock, James City, Brice’s Creek, Vanceboro, Ernul, Cove City, Fort Barnwell, Jasper, and Spring Garden just to name a few. If you are unsure of who services your water, feel free to call our office and one of our friendly Customer Service Clerks will let you know if we service your address.

There are several different ways to set up a new service. 

• You may come into the office located at 2830 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, N.C. 28562. You will need to bring your lease or purchase agreement, your state or federally issued photo identification and check, cash or money order to pay for any fees.
• You may download the forms from this site and mail them into the office at 2830 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, N.C. 28562. You will need to enclose a copy your lease or purchase agreement, your state or federally issued photo identification and check or money order to pay for any fees.
• The newest option is to fill out the forms online. Once you have completed all 3 pages a Customer Service Clerk will contact you via email to send you instructions on how to pay the fees via Official Payments. If you do not receive an email from a Customer Service Clerk within a timely manner, please feel free to call the office to inquire about your application.

We require proof of identity in order to set up new service or write a check in our office. We do this in order to protect our customers from identity theft. 

Craven County Water’s rates can be found by clicking here.

No. Craven County does not service sewer. If service is available at your address there are several different companies that could service your particular address. Check with your landlord or realtor for information on your specific address. 

No. Craven County Water does not handle trash collection. For more information you may contact Craven County Solid Waste.

No. At this time we do not have the capability for online billing or viewing of your bills. However, this is something that we are looking forward to providing to our customers within the next 2-5 years.   

In an effort to protect our customers, we require that someone over the phone must provide the account number in order to gain information, change information or terminate water service. 

Craven County Water services over 14,000 homes and businesses. Those numbers are broken down into 4 billing areas based on Townships. So there are 4 different billing dates, due dates and disconnection dates.

 Bills are due and payable upon creation.  A customer’s failure to receive a water bill shall not preclude such bill becoming delinquent or relieve the user from payment. Bills become delinquent twenty days after the BILLING DATE, there after which a 10% penalty will be applied. Your billing date may be different every month based on the calendar. 

Neuse River is billed between the 1^st and the 5^th of every month.

Township 6 is billed between the 5^th and the 10^th of every month.

North West Craven is billed between the 15^st and the 20^th of every month.

East Craven is billed between the 20^th and the 25^th of every month.

So the last day to pay your bill without incurring a penalty will be based on what day your bill was created. This date will be printed on your monthly bill. We do not call/robo-call customers to remind them of their due dates or their disconnection dates. 

HOWEVER!!!! If you know your billing area (Northwest Craven, East Craven, Neuse River or Township 6) you can click NOTIFY ME from our calendar. This feature will send you a text or email message 2 days before your area's bills are due or scheduled for disconnection! It cannot give any information on your account you would still have to contact the office for specifics. PLEASE NOTE: This will send you a message even if your bill has already been paid. If you do not know your billing area, please feel free to ask one of our Customer Service Clerks.

Bills are due and payable upon creation.  A customer’s failure to receive a water bill shall not preclude such bill becoming delinquent or relieve the user from payment. Bills become delinquent twenty days after the BILLING DATE, there after which a 10% penalty will be applied.  If the bill is not paid within 50 days of the BILLING DATE service will be disconnected.   If you are scheduled for a disconnection, the date will be printed on your monthly bill. We do not send out additional notices. We do not call/robo-call customers to remind them of their due dates or their disconnection dates. 

HOWEVER!!!! If you know your billing area (Northwest Craven, East Craven, Neuse River or Township 6) you can click NOTIFY ME from our calendar.. This feature will send you a text or email message 2 days before your area's bills are due or scheduled for disconnection! It cannot give any information on your account, you would still have to contact the office for specifics. PLEASE NOTE: This will send you a message even if your bill has already been paid. If you do not know your billing area, please feel free to ask one of our Customer Service Clerks.

If you are unable to pay your bill due to financial hardship, unfortunately Craven County Water does not offer payment arrangements.

There are several different places in town that may be able to assist you:

• Social Services.
• Salvation Army.
• Religious Community Services (RCS).
• Catholic Charities.
• Your own place of worship may have funds set aside to help families.

Please Note: Craven County Water does not accept vouchers other than the specific entities listed as numbers 1-4 on the above list. Any other assistance will have to be made the same day via cash, check, money order or Official Payment only. 

DISCLAIMER: Craven County Water does not endorse the above companies or charities nor do we receive any compensation other than payment on bills owed by the customers they assist. We do not have any oversight as to their qualifications for assistance or ability to receive their aid. This is simply a list of places that have been able to help other customers in the past.

You can apply for an adjustment on your bill if you meet the following requirements:

1) Customer must make repairs within 48 hours after being notified by the Water Department personnel. This is either by being sent or left a high consumption notice or upon creation of the bill.

2) Customer must provide either a signed statement or copy of a bill that states the leak has been repaired by a N.C. Licensed Plumber or an itemized store receipt for the parts that were used for repair.

3) In order to qualify for an adjustment the billed consumption must be at least twice as much as the average monthly consumption comprised by the surrounding 12 months, unless 12 months data is not available.

4) Customer shall pay the 12 month water consumption average plus, one-half the amount over the 12 month average and Craven County Water will absorb the remainder.

5) Only one adjustment shall be allowed in a consecutive twelve month period.

6) Bill must be at least $50.00.                                

If you live in the James City towards the Harlowe areas you may have noticed a slight difference in your water. We began using our new Water Treatment Facility in October 2017. 

We formerly pulled all of the water from the Black Creek Aquifer. This is a great aquifer that does not need a complex treatment process, but simply needs to have chlorine added. We were notified by the State of North Carolina well over a decade ago that we would need to begin to reduce the amount that we pulled from that aquifer. The Craven County Board of Commissioners, the former Craven County Manager, and the Craven County Water Superintendent started making plans to build the Water Treatment Facility. We did additionally start pulling from the PeeDee Aquifer to reduce the demand on the Black Creek while we were constructing our facility. We now pull water from the Castle Hayne Aquifer which is lower quality water before treatment. After treatment, the quality of water very similar. It is the same aquifer that the City of New Bern uses as well, but our plant treats the water using a membrane system. 

No. Many water users are concerned about this. Hard water requires more soap and synthetic detergents for home laundry and washing. Hardness is caused by compounds of calcium and magnesium, and by a variety of other metals. Our treatment facility removes the majority of these elements. As water moves through soil and rock, it dissolves very small amounts of minerals and holds them in solution. Calcium and magnesium dissolved in water are the two most common minerals that make water "hard". The water from the Black Creek Aquifer was extremely “soft”; in fact we have had some customers complain that the water made it difficult to remove soap. That water was rated as 1 grain of hardness, whereas the water from the Water Treatment Plant is rated between 2 and 3 grains of hardness .Water is not considered “hard water” until it reaches 7 grains of hardness.  We have done the best job possible to comply with the state requirements and provide our customers with adequate water supply.

The reason your water may have a slight odor of chlorine is that our goal is to ensure that all customers have safe, quality drinking water. This means the customer at the end of the line has a slightly different residual than customers at the beginning of a line. To make sure that all of the water reaches all of our customers within the correct levels, we are adjusting and testing the water on a daily basis. Upon initial start-up we slightly overfeed the chlorine so as to have a sufficient residual at the ends of the distribution system. Since day one we have been adjusting the feed rate down to lower levels while checking the residual. We have to do this at a slow pace so we do not feed lower than what our actual chlorine need is. Customers that live closest to the water plant may notice this for a longer period of time due to their close proximity to the water plant, whereas before, the water they were getting came all the way from Cove City. The water is SAFE and within state standards, even with the slight odor. We are working towards a perfect balance for all of our customers. We thank you for your patience while we ensure you have the best water possible.

     We test the water at the plant on a daily basis. This ensures that it there are any issues with water quality we will know about it BEFORE it enters the distribution system. We additionally test 30+ random sites throughout our entire service area every single month. We also have homes that we test for lead and copper. These results are published in our Annual Water Quality Report. We are confident that our water meets or exceeds the State Standards.

     We do not test water at specific customer’s homes.

In order to be eligible for Hospice Services, you or a loved one must be diagnosed with a life limiting illness or condition which your physicians believes will result in a life expectancy of 6 months or less. Studies consistently show that a person who receives Hospice services, especially those who receive hospice care earlier on in their disease process, will live longer than a person who does not have Hospice. Hospice will never do anything or give any medication that will shorten your life.  Hospice is NOT  “Euthanasia” or “Assisted Suicide”. 

Unfortunately all too often, many people are referred to Hospice Care late in their disease process. This can be because they want to try further treatment, or it can be simple denial that an illness or disease is as far advanced as a person or family realizes. Ask your physician the difficult questions before agreeing to any treatment: What kind of quality of life will I have while taking this treatment? Will this treatment really extend my life (my prognosis)? Craven County Hospice encourages everyone to receive any and all treatment they want for as long as they and their doctor believe it will help extend their life.

We all have a limited life expectancy, it is called being “mortal”. When your physician believes there is no treatment that will make you better or stop your disease progression, no matter what he/she does, Hospice becomes the “something else” they can recommend for you. It is the goal of Hospice to help everyone live life as fully as possibly for as long as possible, as free from pain as possible.

We encourage you to ask your physician about the possibility of Hospice. With your permission, we will be glad to request a referral to Hospice services on your behalf. We are always happy to discuss the services we offer with you and or your family at any time and at no obligation to you. In order to actually begin service, a physician must write an order for one of our skilled professionals to assess your need for Hospice. If you are determined to be eligible for service, you will be asked to sign a “consent”, agreeing to begin services. It is our pledge to you to make this process as seamless as possible for you and your physician.

One of the most widespread ideas is that all hospices are part of one big organization. The truth is there are multiple providers of Hospice Service. All of the Hospices in the area are part of either a state-wide, regional or national organization. Craven County Hospice is “not-for-profit” and the only one located only in Craven County. All hospices are governed by Medicare regulations, offering the same “basic” services. However, there are differences in terms of staffing, medications and supplies that are provided. All Hospice provide good care. We believe we give “Excellent Care”.

Hospice is a benefit of both Medicare and Medicaid and is also paid for by most private insurance.   Hospice care should result in little or no extra “out of pocket” expenses for you or your family (for anything related to your Hospice Diagnosis). Craven County Hospice does not require you to pay a “co-pay” or “deductible” to receive the care you need and deserve.

Prescription opioids are powerful pain-reducing medications. Some prescription opioids are made directly from the opium poppy plant. Others are made by scientists in a laboratory although they have similar chemical structures.

Opioids attach to and activate opioid receptors located in many areas of the brain, spinal cord, and other organs in the body, especially those involved in feelings of pain and pleasure. 

Prescription opioids are prescribed by doctors to treat pain and other health issues such as controlling coughs and diarrhea. When used as prescribed and for a short time, opioids are relatively safe. But when they are misused, they can be dangerous. 

People misuse opioids by:

• Taking a prescription in ways other than instructed, like taking more than prescribed, taking it more often, or taking it for more reasons than prescribed. 
• Getting and using prescription pills from a friend or family member, even if it's for a real medical condition.
• Taking prescription drugs to get high. 
• Mixing prescription opioids with alcohol or other drugs.
• Crushing pills or opening capsules, dissolving the powder in water, injecting the liquid into a vein, or snorting the powder. 

When opioids attach to the receptors in the brain, they block pain signals sent from the brain to the body and release large amounts of dopamine in the brain's reward regions. Dopamine is the chemical responsible for motivating our actions and repeating pleasurable experiences. This release can strongly reinforce the act of taking the drug, making the user want to take the drug again and again despite negative consequences. 

• Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lortab, and Norco)
• Oxycodone (Oxycontin and Percocet)
• Morphine (Kadian and Avinza)
• Codeine
• Fentanyl

Someone struggling with an opioid misuse disorder may not show signs right away. Over time as dependency progresses, there may be some signs that may need help. 

Changes in sleep habits, weight loss, flu-like symptoms, and decreased libido may be physical signs they are struggling with. Changes in the way they act — such as cutting off relationships with family or friends, spending too much money, stealing, changes in exercise habits, or not bathing — may also be signs. Click here for more information on substance use warning signs. 

Heroin remains in the blood for up to six days.

Heroin remains in urine for about three days. 

Naloxone reverses an opioid overdose. Naloxone works by blocking the effects of opiates on the brain and by restoring breathing. Naloxone will only work if a person has opiates in their system. 

Naloxone takes about two to three minutes to take effect. If the person does not wake up in three minutes, bystanders should give a second dose. 

Support groups are offered as a space for individuals to come together and share their stories and experiences. Support groups help individuals realize there are others who may be dealing with similar situations who in turn can help them get better. Click here for support group resources. 

1. Complete a land use application and an application for new septic system (new construction / flow increase).
2. Check the box for an improvement permit. As part of this application you will need a survey or plot plat, if available. But, if one is not available a tax map may be sufficient.
3. Environmental Health will perform a site and soil evaluation of the property.
4. If an improvement permit is issued, you may then apply for authorization to construct.
5. You can apply for the authorization to construct immediately after completing any conditions of the improvement permit and / or any time before expiration of the improvement permit. 

1. Complete a land use application and the application for existing septic tank system.
2. Check the box for “relocation of home not in a mobile home park.”
3. Environmental Health will perform an existing septic system approval evaluation of the property.

1. Complete a land use application and the application for existing septic tank system.
2. Check the box for “detached structure.”
3. Environmental Health will perform an existing septic system Approval evaluation of the property.

1. Complete a land use application and the application for existing septic tank system. North Carolina State Statutes require this.
2. Check the box for “authorization to connect in a Mobile Home Park.”
3. Environmental Health will perform an authorization to connect evaluation of the property.

1. Complete a land use application and the application for repair of a septic tank system. There is no fee for this application.
2. Check the box for "authorization to construct."
3. Environmental Health will perform site and soil evaluation of the property.