When a property owner is interested in building a home, making other physical improvements to his property, subdividing property, or otherwise changing the use or physical characteristics of a building or parcel of property, a number of state and local regulations may apply. The County’s Building Code Official, the County Health Department, the County Zoning Administrator, and the County’s E&S Technician work together to assure compliance of a particular project with state and local laws. Generally, these public officials have responsibility for the following areas:
Building Code Official: the County is required to enforce the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code with respect to the construction and renovation of buildings and structures. Our local Building Official and his staff should be contacted prior to commencement of any work. We also offer a plan review service, to assist you in determining, prior to commencement of any work, what may be your obligations under the Building Code.
County Health Department: the County Health Department must approve water and wastewater systems. For most residential and commercial development within the County, approval of a well and approval of an appropriate septic system will be required. Information regarding permits, approval processes, and fees may be obtained directly from the Health Department.
Environmental Approvals: certain land-disturbing activities require approval of an Erosion & Sediment Control Plan and/or a Stormwater Management Plan. Information regarding when these requirements may apply may be obtained from the County’s Environmental Technician.
Zoning Approvals: a zoning permit is required when a new building is constructed, when an existing building is renovated, or when a property owner changes the use or size of an existing lot or parcel of land. The purpose of a zoning permit is to allow the County’s Zoning Administrator to verify that the use or development of the property is in accordance with applicable County zoning and subdivision regulations.
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