New Elevators
Permit Required
You must obtain permits for the installation of new residential or commercial elevators and for the repair, modernization and replacement of existing elevators. This requirement also applies to:
- Material hoists
- Wheelchair lifts
- Escalators
- Dumbwaiters
Installation of new elevators are subject to the current edition of the Virginia Construction Code and referenced standard ASME A17.1.
What to Bring for Permit Application
- Permit Application with written scope of work.
- Valid contractor's license with an EEC and other appropriate designations from the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
- Construction plans meeting or including the following:
- Minimum scale: 1/8 inch = 1 foot; fully dimensioned
- Minimum size plans: 11x17; no pencil
- Code year of building construction
- Project name and address on each sheet
- List of equipment and materials installed
- Make and model of elevator/equipment
- Manufacturer's design specifications
- Seal of a Virginia registered design professional (for commercial installations)
Permit Application and Inspection Process
STEP 1) Permit application at the Herrity Building, Suite 324; bring documents listed above.
STEP 2) Check status online while plans are under review.
STEP 3) Pick up approved plans at Herrity Building, Suite 324; pay fees at Cashier's Office, Herrity Building, 2nd floor or online; and obtain permit.
STEP 4) Receive acceptance/final inspection. Failed inspections are subject to additional inspection fees.
STEP 5) Receive Certificate of Inspection and display copy in cab or at equipment. Commercial elevators are subject to periodic and annual inspections at this time based on the date of the certificate.
Existing Commercial Elevators
Existing commercial elevators, escalators, wheelchair lifts and dumbwaiters are subject to periodic and annual inspections as described below.
Periodic Inspections
Six months from the date of the elevator's original Certificate of Inspection (see STEP 5 of New Elevators), the county will perform a periodic inspection.
- If passed, the certificate will automatically be extended another six months until the annual inspection is required; see below.
- If failed, the violations listed on the inspection report must be corrected; see Violations below.
Annual Inspections
Prior to the expiration date of the Certificate of Inspections, the elevator's owner or owner's agent must schedule an annual inspection with NEIS, the county's elevator inspections provider, at 703-690-7980, TTY 711 or via email.
- If passed, a new Certificate of Inspections will be issued to you after all outstanding inspection fees have been paid. Request Certificate.
- If failed, the violations listed on the inspection report must be corrected; see Violations below.
Failure to schedule an inspection will result in fines and/or a mandatory removal of service for the elevator.
Violations
Violations revealed through inspections must be corrected and verified through the submission of a Compliance Certification and/or an additional inspection. Failed inspections will result in additional fees and/or a mandatory removal of service for the affected elevator.
Accidents
When an accident occurs, the affected elevator must be pulled from service immediately. Contact the county at 703-631-5101, TTY 711, or via email to report the time, date and description of accident; address and elevator number and contact information. A county inspection will be performed at which time the affected equipment can go back into service if no violations are found. Report an accident.
Change of Owner/Agent
It is the responsibility of the current property owner to inform the county of a change in ownership or designated agent (responsible party). Failure to update this information can result in fines. Submit owner/agent changes.
Top Elevator Links
- Schedule an Annual Inspection
- Request a Certificate of Inspection
- Report an Accident
- Fees
- Check new elevator permit application status by permit | by address
