Car washes must comply with the wastewater discharge and plumbing requirements that are specified in Chapter 67.1 and Chapter 65-6-11 of the Fairfax County Code.  These requirements include preventing sand, grease or mud from entering the sewer system and installing a county-approved water recycling system. Oil and grease originating from petroleum sources are also prohibited when the concentration exceeds 100 mg/L.  A grit trap or oil/water separator is typically required to address these requirements. 

Car washes that can’t discharge to the sanitary sewer should contact the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ) for information about coverage under the state General Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) Permit for Vehicle Wash Facilities and Laundry Facilities.

Vehicle washing facilities on state-owned property are subject to state plumbing requirements. Contact the Virginia Division of Engineering and Buildings (804-786-3581) for requirements if your facility is located on state property.