Virginia Building Permits — Complete Guide (2026)
Find, Apply & Track Permits in Cities and Counties Across Virginia
Virginia has one of the most comprehensive statewide building code systems in the US. Northern Virginia (Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun) is the largest and most complex market, driven by DC metro proximity. Richmond and Hampton Roads are the other major markets.
How building permits work in Virginia
Building permit requirements and processing times in Virginia vary by city and county. Use the links below to apply, check status, schedule inspections and find permit information for your location.
Learn the step-by-step permit process →Not sure where to apply?
Enter your city or address to find your permit office.
Permit costs by type — Virginia
| Permit Type | Fee Range | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | $100–$275 | 1–5 days | Virginia licensed electrician required |
| Plumbing | $85–$250 | 1–5 days | Virginia licensed plumber required |
| HVAC / Mechanical | $100–$275 | 2–6 days | Heat pump adoption leading nationally |
| Roofing | $125–$375 | 1–4 days | Full replacement permit required statewide |
| New Construction | $700–$2,000 | 2–7 weeks | Northern VA among most complex in region |
| Room Addition | $400–$1,100 | 2–6 weeks | Frost depth 24 inches in northern VA |
| Deck / Patio | $150–$450 | 1–4 weeks | Frost depth footings required |
| Pool | $200–$550 | 2–4 weeks | High demand in suburban VA |
| ADU | $350–$950 | 2–5 weeks | Arlington leading ADU reform in VA |
| Solar | $100–$275 | 1–5 days | Strong Virginia solar incentive programs |
Major Virginia cities — apply online
Most Virginia building permits are issued by cities. Click your city to access the permit portal, apply online, or check permit status.
Permit costs by county — top Virginia counties
County building departments handle unincorporated areas. Click a county to access its permit portal directly.
How to get a building permit in Virginia
Find your county or city building official
Virginia's 95 counties and 38 independent cities each have their own permit systems. Fairfax (DPWES), Arlington (DCPHD), and Richmond (Buildings and Codes) have online portals.
Virginia contractor licensing
Virginia requires licenses from the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) for contractors, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors.
Submit plans for structural work
Architectural plans required for additions and new construction. Virginia energy code compliance (VECC) documentation is required.
Pay fees — Northern VA premium
Fairfax and Loudoun County fees reflect the high cost of doing business in the DC metro. Fees are among the highest in the state.
Phase inspections
Northern Virginia has robust inspection programs. Rural Virginia counties may share inspectors.
ADU permits in Virginia — what you need to know
🏠 Virginia ADU-friendly status: Partial — improving
Virginia passed HB 2316 in 2021 requiring localities to allow ADUs in all single-family residential zones statewide. Northern Virginia cities and Arlington County have streamlined ADU programs. Richmond and Virginia Beach updated zoning to comply with the state mandate.
Find a licensed Virginia contractor
Virginia requires licensed professionals for most permitted work. Always verify a contractor's license before hiring — it protects you and is required for most permit types.
General Contractors
Find pre-screened general contractors for your Virginia home project. Compare quotes on permitted work.
Find a Contractor →Verify VA License
Verify your contractor holds a valid Virginia Department of Professional & Occupational Regulation (DPOR) license before any permitted work begins.
Verify VA License →Electricians & Plumbers
Specialty-licensed electricians and plumbers are required for all permitted electrical and plumbing work in Virginia.
Learn More →Ready to get started? Browse verified, licensed contractors serving Virginia homeowners and get free quotes on your project.
🔍 Find a Contractor Near YouFrequently asked questions — Virginia permits
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