Building Permits

A common violation found in Department of Code Compliance (DCC) investigations is construction taking place without required permits. DCC issues more Notices of Violation (NOVs) for construction without a permit than any other type of violation. The Virginia Construction Code (VCC) requires building permits for a wide range of projects. Many of these projects are very common property improvements. For example, decks on both commercial and residential buildings require a building permit. The same holds true for most wall installations and removals.

Homeowners, landlords, and building managers alike may be unaware of building permit requirements, resulting in violations of the VCC and possible safety hazards, so it’s very important to learn when a building permit is required. Find out more information about permit requirements for various construction projects and installations.

What happens during an investigation?

• Reports come from the community or are referred to us from other agencies. Complaints can be anonymous, but we encourage people to leave contact information.
• Investigators visit the property, take pictures, and try to contact the owner or tenants to explain why we are there.
• If problems need to be fixed, we issue a “Notice of Violation,” or NOV, which says what needs to be done to correct issues. The NOV also gives a deadline for bringing the property into compliance.
• Investigators communicate with the owner or whoever is responsible, so everyone understands what is expected. More time may be given as long as there is active work being done toward compliance.
• After deadlines have passed, a reinspection is done to make sure issues have been resolved.
• If the person(s) found responsible refuses to comply with the NOV, and our efforts to motivate and assist them aren’t successful, then we may take legal action, including fines and penalties.

We are here to help!

If you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.