Fairfax County, VA Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)
FEMA flood zone rules in Fairfax County, VA, also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules, determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Key Facts
- Governing program
- National Flood Insurance Program
- Minimum setback
- 15 feet from floodplain
- Non-listed uses
- Require Board special exception
- Approving official
- Director, floodplain determination
Summary
Fairfax County restricts floodplain development to a specific list of permitted uses determined by the Director; any other use or topography change needs Board approval of a special exception under Section 5105.
The uses and changes to topography identified below may be permitted in a floodplain upon a determination by the Director that the use is permitted in the zoning district in which it is located, and the use or change to topography is in accordance with these floodplain regulations and the Public Facilities Manual. Any use or change to topography not meeting the qualifications below may be permitted by the Board with the approval of a special exception.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published.
Full Breakdown
The Zoning Ordinance's floodplain regulations implement the National Flood Insurance Program. Uses within a floodplain are permitted only if they fall within an enumerated list, such as minor floodplain activity, agricultural operations, trail and playground accessories, WMATA/VDOT crossings, public utilities, and limited additions to pre-1978 homes, and the Director confirms the use is allowed in the zoning district. A 15-foot minimum setback from the floodplain also applies. Any use outside the enumerated list requires Board approval of a special exception, and no filling or contour change may raise the 100-year flood level.
Violations & Fines
Building, filling, or changing contours in a floodplain without Director approval or, where required, a Board-approved special exception violates Section 5105 and can trigger stop-work action and FEMA compliance review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a deck or shed in a Fairfax County floodplain?
What's the setback from a Fairfax County floodplain?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fairfax County
Compare Fairfax County to another location·View the Virginia environmental rules overview
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