The 2018 Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) includes additional certification requirements for floodplain elevation certificate review effective July 1, 2022, upon conclusion of the one-year grace period for applying the 2015 USBC. This certification requirement is in addition to the currently required final elevation certificate (i.e., finished construction elevation certificate), collected prior to final inspection.

Floodplain elevation certificates are required under the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and are used to provide elevation information necessary to ensure compliance with the county’s floodplain management regulations. The county’s participation in the NFIP provides a discount for anyone who purchases flood insurance for a property in Fairfax County.

The change to the building code requires the lowest floor elevation certification (i.e., under construction elevation certificate) be submitted to the building official upon placement of the lowest floor, including the basement, prior to vertical construction.

The lowest floor elevation certificate will be required after the foundation inspection passes and prior to the framing inspection.

Until this required certificate is received and approved, no additional inspections may be scheduled.

The latest version of FEMA’s Elevation Certificate with accompanying instructions may be found on FEMA’s webpage. The certificate must be signed and sealed by a Virginia licensed land surveyor or a Virginia Registered Design Professional.

The completed certificate is submitted via email to LDSSDIDAdmin@fairfaxcounty.gov. The Site Development and Inspections Division’s stormwater reviewer will confirm the accuracy of the certificate and notify the submitter once approved, allowing the associated building inspections to advance. There is no fee associated with the review.

If you have any questions, please reach out to the Building Division via email or phone at 703-631-5101, TTY 711.