BUILDING PERMITS

Installing a pool, spa or hot tub in Fairfax County requires the following permits.

• Building permit for an in-ground or above-ground swimming pool. Please note: swimming pools less than 150 square feet, less than 5,000 gallons and less than 24 inches deep do not require a building permit.
• Electrical permit for all electrical installations.
• Mechanical permit for propane-fueled pool heaters and related tanks.
• Plumbing permit for natural gas-fueled pool heaters.
• Virginia Department of Transportation permit may be required for the use of heavy equipment if your property is located on a state road.

To apply for a permit, go to the Permit Application Center at the Herrity Building in Fairfax. To learn more about the permit application process, please refer to our Pools, Spas & Hot Tubs (PDF) publication.

BUILDING PLANS

You must submit the following during the permit application process.

• Two sets of building plans.
• Two copies of the house location plat or grading plan.

Building plans must meet the current building code, referenced standards and the requirements listed in our Pools, Spas & Hot Tubs (PDF) publication.

POOL ENCLOSURE

All outdoor pools, spas and hot tubs with water over 24 inches deep, must be protected with a barrier as outlines in our Pools, Spas & Hot Tubs (PDF) publication.

CONTACT US

For a list of frequently asked questions, please refer to our FAQs page.  E-mail us or call 703-222-0801, TTY 711 during our hours of operation. The permit, plan review and inspection processes can also be accessed through the Fairfax Inspections Database Online (FIDO).