Solar Permit in Fairfax County, Virginia

Permit required?

Yes, a permit is required.

When a permit is usually needed

Before installing any residential rooftop or ground-mounted solar PV system

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 solar permit in Fairfax County?

A residential solar permit is required for all roof-mounted and free-standing solar projects in Fairfax County. The permit fee for residential solar is waived by the county. Standalone electrical records are no longer required if only solar work is performed. Applications are submitted through the PLUS portal and require architectural drawings and specification sheets. Always confirm with the Fairfax County Land Development Services before starting.

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

Processing time for a solar 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 solar 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/solar-residential
• https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/landdevelopment/when-permit-required