Why might you receive a NOV?

Upon receiving a report about alleged issues on a property, DCC investigates to find out if there is a violation. If there is a violation, DCC can issue an NOV. The notice will alert the responsible party to the presence of a violation and provide guidance on the appropriate corrective action. For more information about the investigations process, please see DCC’s About Us website.

How are NOV’s delivered?

As a legal document, the NOV will generally be mailed to the property owner(s) address(es) on file and will be hand delivered with the assistance of the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Deputies who are assigned as our public safety liaisons. This process ensures that service has been made legally and that the County may pursue legal action if the situation warrants.

We recognize that this process may be worrisome for a property owner, but our goal remains to achieve voluntary compliance. Sheriff’s deputies are not present to arrest, interrogate, or intimidate anyone on the property.
 

NOV Basics - What’s in the NOV?

Like many legal notices, NOVs may be overwhelming at first glance. However, these notices will typically communicate the following important information:

Anything else to know?

While few people are glad to receive a NOV, the document is required as DCC’s way to legally communicate what the violation(s) are, how the violation can be resolved, and the timeframe to comply.

Cited language in the NOVs may come directly from codes and ordinances and is sometimes wordy or confusing. If you have a question about the NOV, please contact the DCC Investigator who wrote the NOV. The Investigator provides a direct phone number and email address on the NOV.

If you need other assistance, such as translation services, please contact the DCC main office at 703-324-1300, TTY 711.