Alert:
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is responsible for protecting the natural and cultural resources within its 23,000 acres of parkland while providing recreational opportunities. Through its Easement and Permit Program, FCPA ensures that all necessary steps are taken to minimize adverse impacts to parkland, streams, cultural and historic resources. As a separate agency within Fairfax County, the Park Authority has the right regarding the granting of easements and permits.
FCPA provides an enduring park system that includes protecting natural resources, preserving cultural heritage, and offering inspiring recreational experiences to promote healthy lifestyles. The Easement and Permit Program is guided by the following:
For more details or to start your application, please contact the FCPA Land Management Branch at FCPALandManagement@fairfaxcounty.gov.
If you are accessing park property for work-related activities such as surveying, environmental investigations, construction projects, or other tasks with a specific start and end date, you will need to obtain a permit. A permit provides temporary, short-term authorization with conditions related to entering and using park property.
For projects requiring County plan review or permanent installations on park property, such as utility installations, access roads, or communication lines, you will need to request an easement. Easements are required for activities that involve construction, recurring use, or permanent modifications to the property. Once the easement is granted, a permit will still be necessary for any construction or work activity on FCPA property to protect FCPA, as the property owner, from liability related to the contractor's work and to ensure that the proposed activities align with the agreed easement.
Park property maps can be accessed via the Fairfax County Jade mapping tool or requested through the Land Management Branch. Understanding boundaries and impacted park features are essential for submitting accurate applications. Use the map to find and select the correct property. Under the Layers tab, select "Community" and expand the tab to check the "Recreation" box. This will display the park name and other park features on the map.
If the work will impact trees (including impacts to root systems or canopy), include a Tree Preservation Plan and/or Mitigation Plan. A tree inventory and condition analysis is required for all trees 6 inches in diameter and larger that fall onto FCPA property within the proposed limits of disturbance and 25 feet outside the limit. A tree appraisal and/or tree planting plan for impacted trees may be required as part of the permit and easement payment pending further review.
Permit applications can be completed via a downloadable form available on our website. Submit completed applications along with the required documentation to FCPALandManagement@fairfaxcounty.gov. Incomplete applications will delay the review process.
Supporting documents include property maps, project plans, and environmental studies. Refer to checklist on the application form.
Processing times depend on the complexity of the request. Standard applications may take up to 30 days, while more involved requests requiring environmental reviews, site visits, or additional agency approvals may take longer.
Yes, permit application fees depend on the type of activity or project. Fee schedules are included in the application materials.
Expedited processing may be available for certain projects and emergencies. Contact the office to inquire whether you qualify for expedited review.
Yes, having an easement does not automatically grant authorization for all activities on park property. A permit will still be required for specific work within the easement area, such as construction, land-disturbing activities, utility installations, or maintenance. Permits ensure the proposed activities comply with park policies and minimize any impact to surrounding resources. It also serves to notify Park Managers of ongoing activities, enabling them to communicate with park users to avoid interference with the work in progress. They also protect FCPA, as the property owner, from liability related to the contractor's work and ensure all activities align with park policies.
FCPA is an agency within Fairfax County with deeded land holdings of over 23,000 acres. As such it has the same rights regarding the granting of permits as any other landowner in the county. The Park Authority has its own review requirements and performance standards that must be met.
If you’re unsure whether your project requires a permit, please contact us.
Submit an easement request by completing the downloadable form on our site. Applications should include a detailed description of your project, project plans, and any environmental impact assessments. Refer to the checklist document to ensure that all documents have been submitted for a complete review.
There are many types of easements. Some of the more common types are sanitary sewer, storm drainage, utility, temporary grading and clearing, trail, and conservation. Easements can be temporary or permanent, depending on the purpose of the request.
FCPA is an agency within Fairfax County with deeded land holdings of over 23,000 acres. As such it has the same rights regarding the granting of easements as any other landowner in the county. The Park Authority has its own review requirements and performance standards that must be met.
Easement approvals are more complex than permits, typically requiring 60-90 days for standard reviews. Requests involving extensive environmental, legal, or public-use considerations may take longer.
Easement fees vary based on the land value, scope and impact of the request. Refer to the fee schedule in the easement application packet.
The approval process evaluates factors such as public benefit, environmental impact, compatibility with park operations, safety, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Yes, applications may be denied if the proposed activity conflicts with park authority policies, negatively impacts public or environmental welfare, or lacks sufficient documentation. If denied, staff will provide feedback to help you revise your request or explore alternatives.
Requests to modify permits or easements may be submitted to our office. Modifications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may require additional documentation or fees.
Report unauthorized activity to the Park Authority immediately by calling 703-324-8700 or emailing parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov. Unauthorized use can impact park resources and safety.
If your project involves telecommunications or wireless facilities (e.g., cell towers), and requires utility access, a separate utility easement or access easement is required in addition to any license agreements.