Printer
TextBuilding Permits
A building permit, when required, is a
document issued by Fairfax County which legally authorizes construction activity.
Learn more about the general permit process, commercial construction, new home construction, home improvement projects and more. You may also view our Frequently Asked Questions or watch the online video When Do I Need a Building Permit?
To check the status of a permit, read plan review comments and schedule or cancel an inspection, use the Fairfax Inspections Database Online. To check construction and other information going on around your neighborhood, use the Land Use Search.
Use the steps below to help guide you through the permit process.
Step 1: Planning Your Project
Project Types
- Commercial Construction
- Decks
- Fuel Storage Tanks
- Land Use and Development
- Places of Worship and Non-profit Organizations
- Residential Construction
Regulations, Codes and Guidelines
- Accessibility Fundamentals
- Building Codes and Standards
- Fire Prevention Code Reference Package
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Historic Preservation
- Local Design Load Criteria
- Materials and Components
- Zoning Ordinance
Special Programs
Step 2: Obtaining a Permit
Applying for Permits
- Permit Process
- Location: The Herrity Building
- Hours of Operation
- When a Permit is Required | Do I need a Permit for...?
- Check Permit Status
- Annual Permit Program
- Fire Prevention Code Permits
- Forms
- Modified Processing
Paying Fees
- Permit Fee Estimate: Building | Electrical
- Permit Fee Schedule
- Acceptable Forms of Payment
- Fire Prevention Code Permits and Fees
- Drainage Fixture Unit Table
Plan Review
- Check Plan Status | Review Comments
- Plan Review Submission Requirements
- Common Rejection Reasons
- Current Review Times
- Expedited Building Plan Review Program
- Fire Marshal Plan Review
- Forms
Hearings and Appeals
Step 3: Inspections and Construction
Inspections
- Schedule or Cancel an Inspection: Online | By Phone
- Contact your Residential Inspector
- New Home Inspections
- Special Inspections Manual
- Building Fire Inspections
- Fire Protection Systems Acceptance Testing
- Third Party Inspections (commercial construction)
Construction
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