Masterfiles are a set of master building plans/documents that, once approved, can be used throughout the county for construction. Masterfile approval does not constitute permission to build. Once your Masterfile is approved you must apply for an individual building permit to use the approved plans for construction.
Masterfiles are approved for each model type. They should have the same base foundation and options like a sunroom or rear extension. Masterfiles with multiple base foundations are not permitted and should be submitted separately.
Site-related plans and a first-off building permit application are no longer required to submit for a Masterfile.
Generally, the Masterfile program is used for new residential construction (Single Family Detached and Attached) but there are some commercial projects that qualify.
For information regarding the process to obtain a residential building permit, please reference the appropriate residential building record type webpage. For questions related to commercial projects, please contact the Permit Application Center at LDSBuildingPermits@fairfaxcounty.gov or by calling 703-222-0801, TTY 711.
ON THIS PAGE
This information is the most common for how to obtain the necessary approval for your project and is not representative of all the conditions you may encounter.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
Property owners may obtain permits in their own name, however, it is strongly recommended a properly licensed contractor pull the permits as the responsible party so the county can better assist in gaining compliance for defective work.
PLAN AHEAD
Before submitting, ensure you are aware of all applicable regulations and conditions that could affect your project to avoid surprises during the review process. Some of those factors include:
- Zoning Information
- Design Codes and Standards
- Do I Need to Hire a Registered Design Professional (RDP)?
- Floodplains
- Resource Protection Areas (RPA)
- Grading/Site Plans
- Parking Tabulation
- Types of Soils and Problem Soils
- Researching Site Conditions
To get a detailed description about each regulation and condition, visit our Plan Ahead page.
HOW DO I SUBMIT MY RECORD?
PLUS Application
Apply for your masterfile online in PLUS under the Administration section, under the Building tab. If you are a first-time user, you must first register for an account.
Instructional Videos for PLUS
Helpful Instruction Guide:
Requirements
Depending on the scope of your project, one or more of the following may be required:
- Architectural/Structural Drawings meeting plan minimum submission requirements.
- Supporting Documents (for example, structural calculations, ICC evaluation reports).
- Masterfile Options List – a separate PDF document uploaded to the record, outlining the various options associated with that specific Masterfile project.
What's Next?
To get a step-by-step guide on PLUS statuses and what they mean, see our What is My PLUS Status? Building Plans Infographic.
Review Process
Staff from the Permit Application Center and Building Plan Review may review your package for completeness and compliance with the building code and county ordinances. You will be notified of any deficiencies. Plan corrections, resubmission fees and additional supporting documents may be required.
- Queue Times
- Fees
- Workflow Routing Slip to track review and plan assignment
For a detailed summary of application progress, to include the name(s) of assigned review staff, click on “Reports” in the top-right corner of the PLUS screen, when you are in a specific record, and select “Workflow Routing Slip Report.”
Permit Issuance
Once all reviews are approved and fees have been paid, your permit card and approved plans (if applicable) and Masterfile Approval Report will be available to download from PLUS.
Helpful Video:
