How we verify

PermitNotebook exists to point you to the right permit office and the official rules for your project. To keep that trustworthy, we follow the same process on every page.

Our sources, in order

First, the official local government: the county or city building, zoning, or development services department, including its permit portal and published fee schedule. Second, the permit portal vendor, used only to find the right application and category, never as a content source. Third, Virginia state sources such as the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code for the rules that apply statewide while localities set the specifics.

What every page tells you

Each permit page lists the official sources we used, shows when we last verified the information, and states plainly when a rule could not be confirmed. We do not publish a fee, threshold, or requirement that we could not find on an official source. When we are not sure, we say so and point you to the office.

Corrections

Rules change, and pages can fall out of date. Every permit page has a link to report an error. We especially welcome corrections from permit office staff. Send us the official source and we will update the page and its verification date.

This is a reference to help you get to the official source faster. It is not legal advice and not a replacement for the permit office. Always confirm current requirements directly with the office before starting a project.