Environmental Rules in Fairfax, VA (2026)
3 verified environmental rules for Fairfax, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Stormwater Management
The City of Fairfax operates a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) under a Virginia DEQ permit and enforces the Virginia Stormwater Management Act. Land-disturbing activities over 2,500 square feet typically require erosion and sediment control and stormwater management plans. Illicit discharges to storm drains are prohibited.
Environmental: Stormwater
Heavy RestrictionsFlood Zones
The City of Fairfax participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces floodplain regulations under FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Properties along Accotink Creek and Daniels Run are the primary flood-prone areas. New construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation to or above the Base Flood Elevation plus freeboard.
Environmental: Flood Zones
Heavy RestrictionsGrading & Drainage
The City of Fairfax has a tree conservation ordinance that protects specimen trees and requires tree canopy preservation during development. Removal of trees over a defined diameter typically requires evaluation during site plan review. On single-family lots, homeowner tree removal is generally permitted subject to RPA buffer restrictions near streams.
Environmental: Tree Protection
Some RestrictionsLooking for Fairfax County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Fairfax city rules.
Environmental Rules in Fairfax County →