A donation drop-off box can be a convenient place for the often-fulfilling experience of donating. However, because donation drop-off boxes may not work well in every location, like a neighborhood, there are Zoning Ordinance rules. Below are some common standards, with additional information available on our website.

• Certain commercial properties (C-5, C-6, C-7 and C-8 Districts) may have donation drop-off boxes. These properties must be at least 40,000 square feet in size and have a building (example: shopping center).
• Residentially zoned land with a nonresidential building, like a school, can have donation drop-off boxes.
• Properties subject to zoning approvals like a special permit or special exception usually cannot have these boxes, unless specifically allowed through the approval process.
• Boxes must:
  • be limited to two per property.
  • not exceed 6 ft. in width or length, or 7 ft. in height.
  • be in a safe and permitted location - meeting front setback and not interfering with vehicles, pedestrians, or fire department access.
  • display contact information for who’s responsible.
• Items left outside the box must be cleared within 24 hours.

Unfortunately, sometimes donation drop-off boxes are relocated to unpermitted locations or the areas near the boxes overflow with items that don’t get picked up as required. If you have concerns, the Department of Code Compliance is 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, learn about what happens during an investigation, 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.