CONTACT INFORMATION:
Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Friday, 9:15 a.m. - 4 p.m. Please note that visitors may not be added to in-person queues past 3:45 p.m.
If you do require a permit and need more information on associated requirements and how to submit them in PLUS, visit the Permit Library.
Please note that this is not a comprehensive list; it is meant to provide general guidance for homeowners and others. Visit the codes and standards page, for confirmation or contact Land Development Services.
Is a Permit Required?
New buildings, additions and structures
Interior alterations (including finished basements) except new floors, carpet, paint, trim work
Porches and decks (including alterations to existing)
New and replacement gas appliances
New and replacement HVAC equipment
New plumbing fixtures
New electric appliances
Sheds and playhouses over 256 square feet
Swimming pools except those meeting all of the following:
150 square feet area or less
5,000 gallons capacity or less
24 inches deep or less
Retaining walls over 3 feet
Roof sheathing replacements over 256 square feet
New exterior stairs or stoops
Demolition of buildings and structures
Sump pumps
Tents over 900 square feet
Electric car charging equipment
Changes of occupancy or use group of a commercial space
Movement of a lot line
New and replacement backflow prevention assemblies
Chemical dispensers connected to a water supply or plumbing fixture
Fences except those used as a barrier around a swimming pool or required for pedestrian safety
Verify setback requirements with Zoning Permit Services Branch at 703-222-1082, TTY 711
Residential window or door replacements
Residential reroofs
Residential roof sheathing replacements of 256 square feet or less
Residential residing
Low voltage (50 volts maximum) wiring systems and equipment that are not a component of any fire protection system, access control system, egress control system, located in a plenum or penetrate fire rated or smoke protected construction.
Gutters
Kitchen cabinets
Playground equipment
On-grade patios (including wood patios) 1
Driveways 1, 2
Flagpoles 30 feet or less in height
Temporary ramps serving residential dwellings that are no more than 30 inches high
Replacement of above-ground LP-gas containers which meet the following:
Installed in the same location
Capacity of the containers are the same
Installed by the serving gas supplier
1 If a building permit is not required, a land disturbance permit may still apply depending on the size of the disturbance. For more information see the Site-Related Plans publication, Land Disturbance 101 web page, email, or call 703-222-0801, TTY 711.
2 A VDOT permit may be required. Call 703-259-1773, TTY 711, for more information.
If a Permit is Not Required
Setbacks and other zoning requirements may still apply. Contact Zoning at 703-222-1082, TTY 711, for more information.
A land disturbance permit may still apply depending on the size of the disturbance. Email staff, or call 703-222-0801, TTY 711, for more information.
Separate county approval may also be required if the proposed improvement is located within a floodplain or Resource Protection Area (RPA). For more information, call 703-324-1720, TTY 711.
VIDEO: CHOOSING A BUSINESS SPACE IN FAIRFAX COUNTY
If you are thinking about opening a business in Fairfax County, watch this video to learn of important considerations you need to know when choosing the best space. In this video, county agencies will discuss zoning considerations, permit and inspections processes, and common pitfalls to avoid when choosing a space.
If your project is not listed or you need help determining if a permit is required, please email or call 703-222-0801, TTY 711.
