Fence Permit in Prince William County, Virginia

Permit required?

Sometimes, depending on the project.

Typical threshold: building permit required only for pool safety barriers or pedestrian safety fences; zoning approval required for all fences.

When a permit is usually needed

Before installing any fence on the property

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.

Official fee schedule

Where to apply

• Official permit page
• Permit portal

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a fence permit in Prince William County?

A building permit is not required for standard residential fences in Prince William County. A building permit is required if the fence serves as a swimming pool barrier or is required for pedestrian safety. Zoning Division approval is required for all fences regardless of type. Contact the Zoning Division counter before starting any fence project to confirm setback and placement requirements. The typical threshold is building permit required only for pool safety barriers or pedestrian safety fences; zoning approval required for all fences. Always confirm with the office before starting.

How much does a fence permit cost in Prince William County?

Fees are set by Prince William County and are not published here. See the official fee schedule for current amounts.

How long does a fence permit take in Prince William County?

Processing time for a fence permit in Prince William County varies by workload and project scope. Contact the Prince William County Building Development Division for a current estimate.

Where do you apply for a fence permit in Prince William County?

You can apply through the Prince William County permit portal or contact the Prince William County Building Development Division directly. The links are listed on this page.

Official sources

• https://www.pwcva.gov/department/building-development-division/fence
• https://www.pwcva.gov/department/building-development-division