Public Works and Environmental Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Our administrative offices are open to the public by appointment only at this time. Please call or email 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday
703-324-5033 TTY 711
12000 Government Center Parkway
Suite 448 Fairfax, VA 22035
Christopher S. Herrington
Director
Public works and environmental services

What We Do

The Department of Public Works and Environmental Services builds and maintains safe, reliable infrastructure that improves public health and provides a high quality of life for residents. The department’s four business areas – Solid Waste Management, Capital Facilities, Wastewater Management, and Stormwater Management – work together to create and preserve sustainable communities.

News Stories

aerial view of Noman Cole Plant

November 28, 2023
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. – For anyone who’s ever wondered what happens to our water after we’ve used it, you can find out on Saturday. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on December 2 there will be an open house at the Noman Cole Pollution Control Plant, 9399 Richmond Highway, Lorton, VA 22079. During the tour visitors will learn how water is cleaned after it goes down the drain in homes and businesses, or even down sewers on County streets.
Photo: Seeding
November 17, 2023
In an inspiring collaboration between Fairfax County Public Works and Environmental Services and Fairfax County Public Schools, Whitman Middle School has undergone a transformative change that promises to leave a lasting positive impact on both the school and the environment.
Where Does Recycling Go Poster Thumbnail
November 9, 2023
The County will celebrate Fairfax Recycles Day on November 15, which is the same day as the national “America Recycles Day”. Recycling is an integral part of the County’s ambitious Zero Waste Plan, which aims to divert 90% of waste from disposal and reduce the overall waste generated by 25% by 2040.

Featured Video

Whitman Middle School Pollinator Meadow (November 2023): DPWES and FCPS team up to remove turf grass and plant a pollinator meadow at Whitman Middle School. The resulting pollinator meadow will serve as a valuable resource for students, offering opportunities to learn from and interact with the native environment within their own school while contributing to the conservation and well-being of local wildlife.

KEEPING UP WITH THE FLOW

Water's Journey

Drinking Water - Wastewater - Stormwater

Clean water is our most important resource. To preserve water quality for future generations, we need to understand where water comes from, how we use it, and where it goes when it leaves our homes and businesses. 


APWA Accredited Agency

APWA Accredited Agency logoThe Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services is accredited by the American Public Works Association. This prestigious national accreditation program recognizes public works agencies that comply with or exceed recommended best practices. The recognition affirms the department’s commitment to providing the highest quality services to Fairfax County residents. In 2023, DPWES Wins Several Project of the Year and Honorable Mentions in Regional APWA Awards.

Fairfax Virtual Assistant