Fairfax County, VA Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Fairfax County has adopted and enforces the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), which is based on the International Code Council (ICC) family of codes with Virginia-specific amendments. Under Virginia Dillon's Rule, localities cannot adopt stricter building codes than the USBC, but they administer and enforce it locally. Fairfax County Land Development Services (LDS) handles all building permits, inspections, and code enforcement through the Planning and Land Use System (PLUS) online portal at plus.fairfaxcounty.gov. Permits are generally required for: new construction, additions, structural alterations, finished basements, decks over 30 inches high, most fences, roof replacements (some jurisdictions exempt like-for-like), siding, windows (when changing size or framing), electrical work beyond simple fixture replacement, plumbing beyond simple repairs, HVAC equipment replacement, water heaters, and swimming pools. Exemptions include one-story detached accessory structures under 256 sq ft in many zoning districts, minor repairs, painting, flooring, and cabinetry. Multiple trade permits (building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical) are often required on a single project. Inspections are required at specified stages — footing, framing, rough-in, insulation, final. Working without a required permit violates VA Code §36-106 (Class 1 misdemeanor, up to $2,500 and/or 12 months jail) and may result in stop-work orders, civil penalties, and a requirement to uncover completed work for inspection. Buyers of homes with unpermitted work may face disclosure issues and insurance complications. Licensed contractors must be registered with Virginia DPOR.