Before You Build in Newport News, VA: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Newport News regulates retaining walls under Chapter 13 (Buildings and Building Regulations) and the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. Retaining walls exceeding 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing require a building permit and must be designed by a licensed engineer.

Newport News limits residential fence heights to 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards under the zoning ordinance. Corner lots have visibility requirements at intersections.

Newport News generally does not require a building permit for standard residential fences up to 6 feet. Fences over 6 feet, masonry walls, and fences in the right-of-way require permits.

Newport News does not require neighbor consent to build a fence on your property. Virginia law governs boundary fences, with costs generally negotiated between neighbors.

Newport News requires a building permit for residential pools holding water more than 24 inches deep or larger than 150 sq ft, per the Virginia USBC. Chapter 39 of the City Code governs pools. A 48-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching gate is required under IRC Appendix AG / ISPSC.

Above-ground pools in Newport News must meet barrier requirements if they hold water deeper than 24 inches. Pool walls may serve as barriers if they meet height and no-foothold requirements with removable ladders.

Newport News requires all residential pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Virginia's Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) governs pool barrier requirements.

Newport News enforces pool safety including barriers, drain covers, and maintenance standards. Pools must be maintained to prevent health hazards. Abandoned pools must be drained and secured.

Garage conversions in Newport News require a building permit and must meet Virginia USBC standards for habitable space. The conversion must not reduce the property below minimum parking requirements.

Newport News allows accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones under the zoning ordinance. ADUs must meet size, setback, and design standards. Building permits are required.

Tiny homes on a foundation must comply with the Virginia USBC (13VAC5-63), which adopts the 2021 IRC. Newport News Chapter 45 sets minimum dwelling and lot standards by district. Tiny houses on wheels are treated as RVs and cannot be permanent dwellings outside an approved campground.

Carports in Newport News require a building permit under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC, 13VAC5-63) and must comply with Chapter 45 zoning setbacks. Setbacks vary by zoning district. Confirm specifics with Codes Compliance at 757-933-2311.

Newport News allows sheds in residential zones. Small sheds under 256 square feet typically do not require a building permit under Virginia USBC. Sheds must comply with setback requirements.

Newport News regulates open burning under Chapter 16 of the City Code (Fire Prevention). Open burning of trash is prohibited. Recreational fires and yard waste burning may be allowed under specific conditions with a burn permit from the fire department.

Newport News allows recreational fire pits in approved containers with clean-burning fuels. Pits must maintain clearance from structures and be attended at all times. Fire department burn bans must be observed.

Newport News does not typically impose mandatory water restrictions. The city's water supply from reservoirs and the James River watershed is generally adequate. Voluntary conservation is encouraged during drought conditions.

Newport News does not generally require a permit to remove trees on private residential property. Trees in the public right-of-way require city authorization. Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act may apply near waterways.

Newport News requires property owners to maintain trees overhanging public rights-of-way. Minimum clearance is 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets. City-maintained trees require authorization.