Free Public Workshops Offered in May for Building Safety Month

Thinking about building a deck, making your home more energy efficient or applying for a permit? These Building Safety Month events are a great place to start. The workshops are part of an annual campaign led by the International Code Council to highlight the importance of safe buildings where we live, work and play.

Throughout May, the county’s Department of Land Development Services will host in-person events covering energy efficiency, safe deck construction and permitting basics. These events support the Code Council’s 45th annual Building Safety Month theme, “Game On!” which encourages residents, builders and design professionals to get involved in all aspects of building safety — from understanding code requirements to preparing for natural hazards.

“Recognizing Building Safety Month every year is an important annual milestone and a great way to launch our busiest construction season, May through September,” said William D. Hicks, P.E., director of Land Development Services. “Building safety requires a dedicated county workforce to process permits, review plans, inspect fire suppression systems and stay up to date on evolving code requirements.”

Building Safety Month Events in Fairfax County

Residential Energy Efficiency: What You Can Do at Home
Tuesday, May 6 | 9 to 10:30 a.m. | Register Here
Herrity Building, Conference Rooms 106/107
12055 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax

Deck Boot Camp: How to Build a Safe Deck in Fairfax County
Tuesday, May 13 | 9 to 11 a.m. | Register Here
Herrity Building, Conference Rooms 106/107
12055 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax

Building Permits 101: What Needs a Permit and How to Apply
Tuesday, May 20 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. | Register Here
Sherwood Regional Library
2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria

Building Permits 101: What Needs a Permit and How to Apply
Wednesday, May 28 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Register Here
Providence Community Center
3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax

Each event is open to the public and free of charge. Registration is encouraged.

Fairfax County joins jurisdictions across the United States in celebrating Building Safety Month and highlighting how building codes protect residents from structural risks, fire hazards and extreme weather. Weekly themes throughout the month include daily impacts of building safety, supporting local safety programs, preparing for natural disasters, exploring careers in the industry and looking ahead to future trends.