Frost line depth in McDowell County, NC
How deep the ground freezes in McDowell County, NC
11 in. Dig to 12 in, the 12 in code minimum. Nearest NOAA station: Marion, 2.2 mi.
Your building department sets the legal frost line depth (IRC Table R301.2(1)); footings must go below it (R403.1.4.1). Call them before you dig.