Fairfax County is committed to maintaining the quality of our natural environment. As a result, there are regulations which address the clearing of land, the dumping of fill dirt and debris such as stumps and trash, and the erosion of soil.

• Clearing of areas greater than 2,500 square feet or cut and fill in depths of 18 inches and greater requires a permit.  
• Clearing of even small areas within a flood plain requires a permit or letter of permission.

Visit Online Building and Land Development Information to find permit information on a particular address or area.  

Clues to Illegal Activity and Construction Problems

• The activity is occurring before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. or on weekends.
• No company name appears on the construction vehicles or equipment.
• Construction activity is occurring on a site with no advertising sign.
• Land is being cleared without surveyor's flagging on trees.
• There is no construction entrance adjacent to the roadway (an area of large stone and gravel placed to keep mud off of streets).

If you observe illegal activities, you should report it to the appropriate agency during normal business hours.