Introduction
The Town of Highlands welcomes new residents and encourages them to take advantage of the many social and cultural opportunities available in Town.
If you would like to know more about Highlands, a good place to begin is the Town Hall, located at 210 North Fourth Street. The staff at Town Hall can provide detailed information on the Town's facilities, its government, its land use regulations, and the utility services it provides.
The Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center, located at 108 Main Street, offers a range of information for both visitors and residents, including a calendar of events for the year and details about the local business community.
The purpose of this page is to provide brief information about Highlands, its government, its utility services, and the land use regulations affecting all residents.
For more information, please call or visit
Town Hall
210 N 4th Street
(828) 526-2118
Working hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Town Facilities
The Town's Parks and Recreation Department oversees several facilities, including the Recreation Park located at 600 N 4th Street, the Ball Park at the corner of Fourth and Hickory, and the Ice Skating Rink at Founders Park (483 Pine Street).
The Recreation Park offers tennis courts, picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails. It also features a Civic Center that includes basketball courts, a fitness center, and several meeting rooms. For more information about recreational facilities and activities, please visit the main desk of the Civic Center.
Additionally, the Town maintains a Greenways Trail that runs throughout the town. Maps of the trail are available at Town Hall and the Welcome Center.
Government
Highlands is governed by a Mayor and a Board of Commissioners, which meets on the third Thursday of each month at the Community Building, located at 869 N 4th Street, Highlands, NC 28741. All meetings are open to the public and live streamed on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@townofhighlandsboardofcomm2380). A copy of the agenda can be found on the Town Website.
Land Use Regulations
Whether you're new to our community or are a long-time resident, it's important to know that the Town of Highlands enforces a Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The UDO regulates various aspects, including building setbacks, building heights, fences, lighting, landscaping, and more. Before starting any construction, you must obtain a Zoning Certificate from the Town of Highlands Planning and Development Office. Depending on the nature of your project, you may also need to secure a Building Permit from the Macon County Planning, Permitting, and Development Office. While "home occupations" are allowed in certain areas, commercial activities are generally not permitted in residential neighborhoods. Additionally, open burning is regulated, so please check with the Town Hall and the Fire Department before initiating any burning activities.
Most of the Town is in a water supply watershed, which means the runoff from your land could eventually enter the Town's reservoir. In some areas of Town, the amount of land that can be covered with impervious surface (also known as built-upon area) is regulated, and a natural buffer must be maintained along many lakes and streams. We kindly request that you use paints, weed killers, fertilizers, and other chemicals with caution. Land-disturbing activities are also regulated to prevent soil erosion and resultant sedimentation, which have caused serious problems in Town lakes. Our UDO and zoning map can be viewed online at www.highlandsnc.org. Hard copies of each are available at Town Hall.
For more information, please contact the Town of Highlands Planning & Development Office.
Utilities
The Town provides electric, water, and garbage services, as well as sewer services in some residential areas. New residents are required to sign a contract for utility service. Services & Fees are available through the Resources tab on the Home page of this website. Minimum utility charges are in effect throughout the year, regardless of usage. Utilities are billed on a monthly cycle and are due within 21 days of the billing date. If payment is not received within this timeframe, late penalties are automatically applied.
Be aware that winter in Highlands is characterized by subfreezing temperatures. If you are a seasonal resident not accustomed to colder climates, or if you plan on leaving your home for more than a few days during the winter, consider having your home professionally winterized. This includes thorough draining of pipes and disconnecting electricity. Older homes in particular may not be adequately insulated, and broken water pipes can cause extensive damage.
Garbage is collected twice a week in residential areas. Residents should inquire where to place their trash for pickup when they sign up for utility service. The Town of Highlands has a mandatory bear-proof garbage receptacle ordinance in place. Voluntary recycling is encouraged.
For more information, please contact Town Hall.
Town of Highlands | 828.526.2118
Fax | 828.526.2595