Building Permits
A building permit is a document issued by Fairfax County which legally authorizes construction activity.
Learn more:
To obtain a permit online, check the status of an existing permit or to schedule an inspection, visit FIDO (Fairfax Inspections Database Online). You may also use our Land Use Search to find construction in and around your neighborhood.
Step 1: Planning Your Project
Project Types
- Residential Construction
- Commercial Construction
- Decks
- Fuel Storage Tanks
- Land Use and Development
- Places of Worship and Non-profit Organizations
- Signs
Regulations, Codes and Guidelines
- Accessibility Fundamentals
- Building Codes and Standards
- Code Interpretations, Modifications & Appeals
- Fire Prevention Code
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Historic Preservation
- Lead Paint Guidelines
- Local Design Load Criteria
- Materials and Components
- Outdoor Lighting
- Universal Design
- Zoning Ordinance
Special Programs and Assistance
- Design Professional License Look-up
- Home Improvement Loan Program
- Selecting a Contractor | Avoid Fraud
- Revitalization
Hearings and Appeals
Step 2: Obtaining a Permit
Applying for Permits
- Apply Online
- Permit Process
- Location: The Herrity Building
- Hours of Operation
- When a Permit is Required | FAQs
- Check Permit Status
- Annual Permit Program
- Fire Prevention Code Permits
- Forms
- Modified Processing
Paying Fees
- Permit Fee Estimate
- Permit Fee Schedule: Narrative | Fee Table
- Acceptable Forms of Payment
- Fire Prevention Code Permits and Fees
- Drainage Fixture Unit Table
- Wastewater Charges
Plan Review
Step 3: Inspections and Construction
Inspections
- Schedule Inspections Online
- Inspection Codes (for scheduling inspections by phone)
- Contact your Residential Inspector
- New Home Inspections
- Special Inspections Program
- Fire Inspections and Acceptance Testing
- Third Party Inspections (commercial construction)
Construction
Post-Occupancy Concerns
Residential
- Blight
- Deck Safety / Deck Maintenance
- File a Complaint
- Hoarding
- Home Repair for the Elderly
- Mold Prevention
- Overcrowding / Boarding Houses
- Property Maintenance | Checklist
Commercial


Website Survey