Deck Permit in Fairfax County, Virginia

Permit required?

Yes, a permit is required.

When a permit is usually needed

Before constructing any new residential deck or altering an existing deck

Permit cost and what affects it

Fees are set by the locality and are not published here. See the official fee schedule or contact the office for current amounts.

Permit costs generally depend on the project valuation, the scope of work, and the inspections required. Ask the office how the fee is calculated for your specific project.

Where to apply

• Official permit page
• Permit portal

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a deck permit in Fairfax County?

A building permit is required for all residential deck construction and alterations in Fairfax County. On-grade paver and concrete patios are exempt, but any deck with post and beam construction requires a permit. An electrical permit is also needed if new outlets or non-low-voltage lighting are added. Applications are submitted through the PLUS portal. Always confirm with the Fairfax County Land Development Services before starting.

How much does a deck permit cost in Fairfax County?

Fees are set by Fairfax County and are not published here. Contact the office for current amounts.

How long does a deck permit take in Fairfax County?

Processing time for a deck permit in Fairfax County varies by workload and project scope. Contact the Fairfax County Land Development Services for a current estimate.

Where do you apply for a deck permit in Fairfax County?

You can apply through the Fairfax County permit portal or contact the Fairfax County Land Development Services directly. The links are listed on this page.

Official sources

• https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/landdevelopment/when-permit-required
• https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/landdevelopment/permit-library/residential