Fairfax County, Virginia Driveway Fence Shed and Site Permit Guide

Homeowners in Fairfax County, Virginia, should check zoning, right-of-way, drainage, easements, setbacks, fence height, accessory structures, and inspections before building outside the house footprint.

Published by Quantum Steel Design LLC. Editorial methods and source-review scope.

This project checklist identifies general planning issues to discuss with the local office. The linked city resources provide starting points; they do not establish every project-specific requirement.

Permit takeaway

Fairfax County exterior site work can trigger zoning or public-works review even when the structure itself looks small or temporary.

Zoning and placement

Setbacks, easements, corner-lot sight distance, floodplain, stormwater, septic areas, utility clearances, historic districts, and right-of-way limits should be checked before materials are ordered.

Building and trade review

Building review may apply when sheds exceed local size limits, fences exceed height thresholds, retaining walls support soil or driveways, or site work includes electrical, plumbing, concrete, or structural elements.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if the project includes a new driveway, curb cut, sidewalk work, fence near a corner, shed near a property line, retaining wall, drainage change, pool barrier, or utility work.

Documents to prepare

• Property survey or site plan
• Dimensions and materials
• Driveway or right-of-way details
• Drainage information
• Fence, shed, or wall specifications

Inspection planning

• Verify property lines and easements
• Check zoning and public-works approvals
• Call utility locate before digging
• Schedule footing, post, driveway, or final inspections when required
• Keep approval records with the property

Official sources

• Fairfax County Permit Library
• Fairfax County Residential Building Permit Library
• Fairfax County When a Permit is Required

This guide is a planning summary. Source availability does not establish that each local requirement was reviewed. Always verify current requirements with the local office before starting work.