Shed Permit in Fairfax County, Virginia

Permit required?

Sometimes, depending on the project.

Typical threshold: single-story shed 256 sq ft or larger requires a building permit; under 256 sq ft no permit required.

When a permit is usually needed

For sheds 256 sq ft or larger, or any multi-story detached structure

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 shed permit in Fairfax County?

In Fairfax County single-story sheds under 256 sq ft do not require a building permit. Sheds of 256 sq ft or more require a residential New Building permit applied through the PLUS portal. Zoning and land disturbance approvals may still be required even for smaller sheds. The typical threshold is single-story shed 256 sq ft or larger requires a building permit; under 256 sq ft no permit required. Always confirm with the office before starting.

How much does a shed 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 shed permit take in Fairfax County?

Processing time for a shed 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 shed 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/permit-library/new-building-residential
• https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/landdevelopment/when-permit-required