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TextDo I Need a Permit For...
Use the table below to determine if your project requires a permit. For more information and a video regarding when you must apply for a buidling permit, go to When a Permit is Required.
| Project | Permit Required? | Type of Permit | For more information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driveway (new or expanded) | Yes, if disturbing more than 2,500 square feet, cutting or filling more than 18 inches of soil or blocking existing drainage patterns. | Land Disturbance Permit |
Site and Addressing Center, 703-222-0801, TTY 711 |
| Yes, for new and widened driveways on state-maintained roads. | VDOT Permit | VDOT, 703-383-2888, TTY 711 | |
| Please note: the Zoning Ordinance also restricts the size of a driveway and surface parking in a front yard even if a permit is not required. | Zoning Administration, 703-222-1082, TTY 711 | ||
| Re-roofing of a home | No | ||
| Re-siding of a home | No | ||
| Retaining wall | Yes, if the wall retains more than 24 inches of earth. | Building Permit | Permit Application Center, 703-222-0801, TTY 711, see also Retaining Walls |
| Storage or tool shed |
Yes, if the shed is greater than 200 square feet or more than one
story. Even if a building permit is not required, you must comply
with Zoning regulations. |
Building Permit, Electrical Permit (if electric is installed) |
Permit Application Center, 703-222-0801, TTY 711, see also
Garages and
Sheds
|
| Finished basement | Yes | Building Permit, Electrical Permit and Plumbing Permit | Permit Application Center, 703-222-0801, TTY 711, see also Finished Basements |
| Deck | Yes | Building Permit | Permit Application Center, 703-222-0801, TTY 711, see also Decks |
| Fence | Yes, if the fence is greater than 6 feet in height. If the fence is greater than 7 feet in height a special exception is required from zoning. Even if a building permit is not required, you must comply with Zoning regulations. | Building Permit | Zoning Administration, 703-222-1082, TTY 711, see also Fences FAQs |
| Electric vehicle charging equipment | Yes, if you are adding a new branch circuit to accommodate the equipment. | Electrical Permit | Permit Application Center, 703-222-0801, TTY 711, see also Electric Vehicle FAQs |
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