If you’ve ever looked up a property line, zoning district, or flood zone map in New Hanover County, North Carolina, chances are you’ve interacted with the county’s GIS (Geographic Information System).
But what exactly is GIS New Hanover, and why is it such a powerful tool for residents, developers, businesses, and government agencies? This article explores everything you need to know about GIS services in New Hanover County, including how to use them and what they’re used for.
What Is GIS?
GIS, or Geographic Information System, is a digital mapping technology that allows users to visualize, analyze, and interpret spatial data. In simple terms, it’s a way to see and understand data tied to a location—like maps that can show layers of information.
In New Hanover County, GIS is used by departments like:
- Planning and zoning
- Emergency management
- Tax assessment
- Public works
- Environmental services
The GIS system supports decision-making, enhances transparency, and helps the public easily access vital information about land, infrastructure, and geography.
How New Hanover County Uses GIS
Here’s how GIS New Hanover benefits different groups in the county:
Residents
- Look up property boundaries and parcel info
- Check flood zones or hurricane evacuation zones
- Find nearby schools, parks, or public services
Developers and Realtors
- Access zoning data, overlay districts, and land use regulations
- Analyze infrastructure access (water/sewer lines, roads)
- Download shapefiles for land development analysis
Local Government
- Plan infrastructure projects
- Track environmental data (wetlands, water bodies)
- Manage emergency response routing
Businesses and Analysts
- Conduct market analysis
- Choose optimal business locations
- Visualize demographic trends
Key Features of GIS New Hanover Tools
New Hanover County’s GIS department offers several digital tools and interactive web maps through their official website. Some of the most useful features include:
- Property Map Viewer – Interactive parcel viewer with owner info, acreage, and tax data.
- Flood Zone Maps – Shows flood-prone areas based on FEMA and local data.
- Zoning and Land Use Maps – Allows filtering by zoning codes and planning overlays.
- Historic Imagery – Aerial photos of the county dating back decades.
- Downloadable GIS Data – For professionals needing raw spatial files.
All of this can be accessed through the New Hanover County GIS Portal, available online 24/7.
Benefits of GIS in New Hanover
- Accuracy – Get precise property lines and measurements.
- Time-saving – Avoid long wait times at government offices.
- Transparency – View public data about land ownership, zoning, and infrastructure.
- Risk management – Understand flood hazards and evacuation zones.
- Customization – Many maps allow users to toggle layers on/off based on what they want to see.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is “GIS New Hanover” used for?
A: GIS New Hanover is a mapping and data system that provides property, zoning, environmental, and geographic information for New Hanover County, North Carolina. It’s used by residents, planners, and government agencies for decision-making and research.
Q2: Can I look up who owns a property in New Hanover County?
A: Yes! The county’s Property Map Viewer allows you to search by address, parcel number, or owner name to view property ownership, assessed value, and more.
Q3: Is GIS data free to use?
A: Most GIS data on the New Hanover County portal is free and publicly available. You can view interactive maps online or download GIS files for professional use.
Q4: How do I access flood zone information?
A: Use the Flood Zone Map tool on the county GIS website. It shows FEMA flood zones and whether a property is in a flood-prone area. This is essential for homeowners, insurance agents, and developers.
Q5: Is the New Hanover GIS system updated regularly?
A: Yes. The GIS department frequently updates its maps and datasets to reflect new development, zoning changes, parcel splits, and environmental data.
Q6: Can I use GIS maps for planning a construction project?
A: Absolutely. Contractors and developers use New Hanover’s GIS to assess zoning regulations, access points, utility lines, and land restrictions. It’s often the first step in the development process.
Q7: Where can I get help using the GIS portal?
A: The New Hanover County GIS website includes user guides and contact information. You can also visit the County’s IT or Planning Department for in-person support during business hours.
Final Thoughts
GIS New Hanover is much more than just a mapping tool—it’s a smart, digital window into the geography, infrastructure, and planning framework of New Hanover County. Whether you’re buying a home, launching a business, or managing county resources, the GIS portal helps you make informed, data-backed decisions.
With its user-friendly design, up-to-date data, and public accessibility, New Hanover’s GIS system is a modern asset that empowers citizens and supports smart growth.
