Residential Project Requirements and Application Submittal

Addition Projects

The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code requires a building permit for any house, addition or work to finish off existing space. It states any work that is structural in nature requires a permit. It does exclude cosmetic changes (such as painting, installing vinyl siding, replacing carpet, etc.) and ordinary repairs (such as replacing cabinetry, kitchen appliances (except gas equipment), electrical switches, electric water heaters, reroofing, etc.). For additional information, download the requirements for building a house or addition pamphlet (PDF). Call the Building Inspection office at 804-748-1057 if you are in doubt.

The following permits are required for addition projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
  • All buffers, easements or floodplains located on your property (no structure may be located in these areas).
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Engineered soil reports (two copies) - Required to be prepared by a soil scientist or geotechnical engineer and submitted with each set of construction plans for all new houses. For more information, see the Requirements for Soil Reports and Footings (PDF).
• Agreement in Lieu of Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (PDF)
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Attic and attic floor framing plan
• Basement plan
• Elevations
• First floor and first floor framing plan
• A footing and foundation plan
• A plat showing the location of the new structure to existing property lines
• Roof and roof framing plan
• Second floor and second floor framing plan
• Shrink/swell soil report
• Structural cross section(s)

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet.
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches).
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes).
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape).

Non-structural details:

• Do not submit mechanical, electrical or plumbing (MEP) drawings. Plan reviewers do not review these for residential plans. The field inspectors check for those issues.
• Do not submit cabinetry, stair or non-structural details. They are not reviewed.

Plan View Requirements

Plan views are required for footing and foundation, basement, first floor, second floor, attic, roof and framing plans. These plan views must include:

• Perimeter and interior dimensions
• Room names on each floor plan
• Size and location of all doors and windows
• All interior load-bearing walls identified
• All beams, including garage door headers, identified. For all beams carrying more than 4,000 lbs., identify the column on each end.
• Size and direction of all floor joists and ceiling joists
  • For I-joists or open-web joists, provide manufacturer's layout plan.
  • Identification on plans similar to:
    • Nominal lumber: 2 by 8 SYP at 16 inches on center (o.c.)
    • I-joists: Truss Joist, Series 230, 11 feet 7/8 inches, 16 inches o.c.
• Braced wall lines and the accompanying braced wall panel method(s) with calculation(s) clearly listed on each floor plan
• Full height, two-story walls (i.e. walls over 12 feet tall) engineered by a registered design professional
• Attic plan for all attics accessed by a permanent stair
• Any space intended for "future" use marked accordingly
• Each rafter or truss individually drawn to show bearing. All overbuilt roofs identified.
• For structures with truss roofs, provide truss layout and individual truss detail sheets. The truss detail sheets do not need to be individually sealed for plan review, but must be sealed by a registered design professional at the time of inspection.
• Sections:
  • At least one "through-structure" section, cut from the front to the rear of the structure, in a location that will show any non-standard section, such as a two-story family room or a room with a vaulted ceiling.
  • If there are multiple complicated spaces, separate sections to show all of the structure.
  • Section cut lines (arrows) referenced on the plan views.
• Elevations:
  • Two elevations (from the front and side). Show the exterior finishes.
  • If it has a basement, include elevations showing approximate grade changes, doors and windows.

Deck Projects

The following permits are required for deck projects:

• Building permit
• Electrical permit - May be required depending on the scope of work

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit. For technical design criteria, download the Deck, Stair and Ramp Details (PDF) pamphlet.
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - download the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods are cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Details of the attachment of the deck to the structure
• Floor plan and floor framing
• Footing details
• Guard rail and picket framing details
• If the deck will support a hot tub, provide a design of the deck sealed by a Registered Design Professional to verify the deck can support all loads imposed by the hot tub
• Support post location and size

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches)
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes)
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape)

Plan View Requirements

Plan views for footing and foundation, elevations and framing must include:

• Perimeter and interior dimensions
• All beams identified
• All beams carrying more than 4,000 pounds (identify the column on each end)
• Size and direction of all joists:
  • For I-joists or open-web joists, provide the manufacturer's layout plan.
  • Identification on plans similar to:
    • Nominal lumber: 2 by 8 SYP at 16 inches on center (o.c.)
    • I-joists: Truss Joist, Series 230, 11 feet 7/8 inches, 16 inches o.c.
    • Elevations: Two elevations (from the front and side)

Fence Projects

For fence projects, a building permit is required if the fence serves as a pool barrier.

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies. The following are general requirements for all construction drawings:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet.
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches).
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes).
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape).
• General construction elevation drawing showing:
  • Height from grade to top of fence.
  • Size and spacing of all support and framing members.
  • Foundation details.

Finished Attics and Basements Projects

For additional information, download the requirements for building a house or addition pamphlet (PDF).

The following permits are required for finished attics and basements projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• A cross-section showing all new and existing framing materials, insulation and ceiling heights
• Plan(s) showing all new walls, framing, fixtures and room uses
• Plan(s) showing the existing space

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches)
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes)
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape)

Non-structural details:

• Do not submit mechanical, electrical or plumbing (MEP) drawings. Plan reviewers do not review these for residential plans. The field inspectors check for those issues.
• Do not submit cabinetry, stair or non-structural details. They are not reviewed.

Plan View Requirements

Plan views for floor plan and cross-section must include:

• Perimeter and interior dimensions
• Room names on each floor plan
• Size and location of all doors and windows
• All interior load-bearing walls identified
• Size and direction of all floor joists and ceiling joists:
  • For I-joists or open-web joists, provide the manufacturer's layout plan
  • Identification on plans similar to:
    • Nominal lumber: 2 by 8 SYP at 16 inches on center (o.c.)
    • I-joists: Truss Joist, Series 230, 11 feet 7/8 inches, 16 inches o.c.
• Any space intended for "future" use marked accordingly
• Sections:
  • At least one "through-structure" section, cut from the front to the rear of the structure, in a location that will show any non-standard section, such as a two-story family room or a room with a vaulted ceiling
  • If there are multiple complicated spaces, separate sections to show the entire structure
  • Section cut lines (arrows) referenced on the plan views

Fire Damage and Repair Projects

For additional information, download the requirements for building a house or addition pamphlet (PDF).

The following permits are required for fire damage and repair projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• An overview floor plan with the room use clearly labeled and a brief description of the repairs to be made.
• If sections of the structure must be rebuilt, you need framing plans. See Addition Projects (PDF).
• If the whole structure has to be rebuilt down to the foundation, you need a sealed letter from an engineer verifying that the existing foundation is still structurally adequate.
• If the whole structure has to be rebuilt, requirements will be the same as those for a new house unless you have a sealed letter from an engineer verifying that the existing foundation is still structurally adequate.

Garage (Attached) Projects

The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code requires a building permit for any house, addition or work to finish off existing space. It states any work that is structural in nature requires a permit. It does exclude cosmetic changes (such as painting, installing vinyl siding, replacing carpet, etc.) and ordinary repairs (such as replacing cabinetry, kitchen appliances (except gas equipment), electrical switches, electric water heaters, reroofing, etc.). For additional information, download the requirements for building a house or addition pamphlet (PDF). Call the Building Inspection office at 804-748-1057 if you are in doubt.

The following permits are required for garage (attached) projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
  • All buffers, easements or floodplains located on your property (no structure may be located in these areas).
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Engineered soil reports (two copies) - Required to be prepared by a soil scientist or geotechnical engineer and submitted with each set of construction plans for all new houses. For more information, see the Requirements for Soil Reports and Footings (PDF).
• Agreement in Lieu of Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (PDF)
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Attic and attic floor framing plan
• Basement plan
• Elevations
• First floor and first floor framing plan
• A footing and foundation plan
• A plat showing the location of the new structure to existing property lines
• Roof and roof framing plan
• Second floor and second floor framing plan
• Shrink/swell soil report
• Structural cross section(s)

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet.
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches).
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes).
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape).

Non-structural details:

• Do not submit mechanical, electrical or plumbing (MEP) drawings. Plan reviewers do not review these for residential plans. The field inspectors check for those issues.
• Do not submit cabinetry, stair or non-structural details. They are not reviewed.

Plan View Requirements

Plan views are required for footing and foundation, basement, first floor, second floor, attic, roof and framing plans. These plan views must include:

• Perimeter and interior dimensions
• Room names on each floor plan
• Size and location of all doors and windows
• All interior load-bearing walls identified
• All beams, including garage door headers, identified. For all beams carrying more than 4,000 lbs., identify the column on each end.
• Size and direction of all floor joists and ceiling joists
  • For I-joists or open-web joists, provide manufacturer's layout plan.
  • Identification on plans similar to:
    • Nominal lumber: 2 by 8 SYP at 16 inches on center (o.c.)
    • I-joists: Truss Joist, Series 230, 11 feet 7/8 inches, 16 inches o.c.
• Braced wall lines and the accompanying braced wall panel method(s) with calculation(s) clearly listed on each floor plan
• Full height, two-story walls (i.e. walls over 12 feet tall) engineered by a registered design professional
• Attic plan for all attics accessed by a permanent stair
• Any space intended for "future" use marked accordingly
• Each rafter or truss individually drawn to show bearing. All overbuilt roofs identified.
• For structures with truss roofs, provide truss layout and individual truss detail sheets. The truss detail sheets do not need to be individually sealed for plan review, but must be sealed by a registered design professional at the time of inspection.
• Sections:
  • At least one "through-structure" section, cut from the front to the rear of the structure, in a location that will show any non-standard section, such as a two-story family room or a room with a vaulted ceiling.
  • If there are multiple complicated spaces, separate sections to show all of the structure.
  • Section cut lines (arrows) referenced on the plan views.
• Elevations:
  • Two elevations (from the front and side). Show the exterior finishes.
  • If it has a basement, include elevations showing approximate grade changes, doors and windows.

Garage (Detached), Carports and Tool Shed Projects

For technical design criteria, download the requirements for sheds, carports and garages pamphlet (PDF).

The following permits are required for garage (detached), carports and tool shed projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Engineered soil reports (two copies) - Required to be prepared by a soil scientist or geotechnical engineer. You need a soils report for construction of any potentially habitable space (e.g. garages with living space above) where the property is deemed to be in the Triassic Basin (the area of the county with an increased potential of "shrink-swell" soil). For more information see the Requirements for Soil Reports and Footings (PDF).
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Elevations
• First floor plan and framing plan
• For two story structures with potentially habitable attics or second floors, you may need a shrink/swell soil report. Call for assistance.
• Foundation plan and construction details
• Roof and roof framing plan
• Second floor plan and framing plan
• Structural cross section(s)

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet.
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches).
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes).
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape).

Plan View Requirements

Plan views are required for framing plans, footing and foundation, basement, first floor, second floor, attic and roof. These plan views must include:

• Perimeter and interior dimensions
• Room names on each floor plan
• Size and location of all doors and windows
• All interior load-bearing walls identified
• All beams, including garage door headers, identified. For all beams carrying more than 4,000 lbs., identify the column on each end.
• Size and direction of all floor joists and ceiling joists
  • For I-joists or open-web joists, provide manufacturer's layout plan.
  • Identification on plans similar to:
    • Nominal lumber: 2 by 8 SYP at 16 inches on center (o.c.)
    • I-joists: Truss Joist, Series 230, 11 feet 7/8 inches, 16 inches o.c.
• Braced wall lines and the accompanying braced wall panel method(s) with calculation(s) clearly listed on each floor plan
• Full height, two-story walls (i.e. walls over 12 feet tall) engineered by a registered design professional
• Attic plan for all attics accessed by a permanent stair
• Any space intended for "future" use marked accordingly
• Each rafter or truss individually drawn to show bearing; All overbuilt roofs identified
• For structures with truss roofs, provide truss layout and individual truss detail sheets
• Truss detail sheets do not need to be individually sealed for plan review, but must be sealed by a registered design professional at the time of inspection
• Sections:
  • At least one "through-structure" section, cut from the front to the rear of the structure, in a location that will show any non-standard section, such as a two-story room
  • If there are multiple complicated spaces, separate sections to show all of the structure
  • Section cut lines (arrows) referenced on the plan views
• Elevations: Two elevations (from the front and side); show the exterior finishes

Handicap Ramp Projects

For technical design criteria, download the deck, stair and ramp details pamphlet (PDF).

A building permit is required for handicap ramp projects.

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF).
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Attachment of the ramp to the structure details
• Floor plan and floor framing
• Footing details
• Guard rail and picket framing details
• A plat showing the location of the new addition to existing property lines
• Support post location and size

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet.
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches).
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes).
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape).

Plan View Requirements

Plan views are required for footing and foundation, framing plans, and elevations. These plan views must include:

• Perimeter and interior dimensions
• All beams identified. For all beams carrying more than 4,000 lbs., identify the column on each end.
• Size and direction of all joists
  • For I-joists or open-web joists, provide manufacturer's layout plan.
  • Identification on plans similar to:
    • Nominal lumber: 2 by 8 SYP at 16 inches on center (o.c.)
    • I-joists: Truss Joist, Series 230, 11 feet 7/8 inches, 16 inches o.c.
• Elevations: Two elevations (from the front and side)

Mobile Home Projects

The following permits are required for mobile home projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include the pier support and anchoring placement diagram.

Modular and Manufactured Home Projects

The following permits are required for modular and manufactured home projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
  • All buffers, easements or floodplains located on your property (no structure may be located in these areas).
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Engineered soil reports (two copies) - Required to be prepared by a soil scientist or geotechnical engineer and submitted with each set of construction plans for all new houses. For more information, view the Requirements for Soil Reports and Footings (PDF).
• Agreement in Lieu of Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (PDF)
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Footing and foundation plan
• Installation and setup instructions from the manufacturer, including floor plans, roof plan, elevations, cross sections and mating wall details (these plans must be sealed by the compliance (inspection) agency
• Shrink/swell soil report

New House Projects

For additional information, download the Requirements for Building a House or Addition Pamphlet (PDF).

The following permits are required for new house projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
  • All buffers, easements or floodplains located on your property (no structure may be located in these areas).
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Engineered soil reports (two copies) - Required to be prepared by a soil scientist or geotechnical engineer and submitted with each set of construction plans for all new houses. For more information, see the Requirements for Soil Reports and Footings (PDF).
• Agreement in Lieu of Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (PDF)
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Attic and attic floor framing plan
• Basement plan
• Elevations
• First floor and first floor framing plan
• A footing and foundation plan
• A plat showing the location of the new structure to existing property lines
• Roof and roof framing plan
• Second floor and second floor framing plan
• Shrink/swell soil report
• Structural cross section(s)

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet.
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches).
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes).
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape).

Non-structural details:

• Do not submit mechanical, electrical or plumbing (MEP) drawings. Plan reviewers do not review these for residential plans. The field inspectors check for those issues.
• Do not submit cabinetry, stair or non-structural details. They are not reviewed.

Plan View Requirements

Plan views are required for footing and foundation, basement, first floor, second floor, attic, roof and framing plans. These plan views must include:

• Perimeter and interior dimensions
• Room names on each floor plan
• Size and location of all doors and windows
• All interior load-bearing walls identified
• All beams, including garage door headers, identified. For all beams carrying more than 4,000 lbs., identify the column on each end.
• Size and direction of all floor joists and ceiling joists
  • For I-joists or open-web joists, provide manufacturer's layout plan.
  • Identification on plans similar to:
    • Nominal lumber: 2 by 8 SYP at 16 inches on center (o.c.)
    • I-joists: Truss Joist, Series 230, 11 feet 7/8 inches, 16 inches o.c.
• Braced wall lines and the accompanying braced wall panel method(s) with calculation(s) clearly listed on each floor plan
• Full height, two-story walls (i.e. walls over 12 feet tall) engineered by a registered design professional
• Attic plan for all attics accessed by a permanent stair
• Any space intended for "future" use marked accordingly
• Each rafter or truss individually drawn to show bearing. All overbuilt roofs identified.
• For structures with truss roofs, provide truss layout and individual truss detail sheets. The truss detail sheets do not need to be individually sealed for plan review, but must be sealed by a registered design professional at the time of inspection.
• Sections:
  • At least one "through-structure" section, cut from the front to the rear of the structure, in a location that will show any non-standard section, such as a two-story family room or a room with a vaulted ceiling.
  • If there are multiple complicated spaces, separate sections to show all of the structure.
  • Section cut lines (arrows) referenced on the plan views.
• Elevations:
  • Two elevations (from the front and side). Show the exterior finishes.
  • If it has a basement, include elevations showing approximate grade changes, doors and windows.

Renovation, Repair and Alteration Projects

The following permits are required for renovation, repair and alteration projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements exceptfor exclusively interior work. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies; the requirements for projects in this category can vary. Contact Residential Plan Review staff at 804-748-1057 for assistance if needed.

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet.
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches).
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes).
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape).
• Plan(s) showing the existing space.
• Plan(s) showing all new walls, framing, fixtures and room use.
• A cross-section showing all new and existing framing materials, insulation and ceiling heights.

Retaining Wall Projects

For retaining wall projects, a building permit is required.

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements except for exclusively interior work. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• A footing and foundation plan showing how the wall is supported.
• A cross-section showing how the wall will be constructed. If the wall will retain more than 4 feet of earth/fill, it is required to be designed and sealed by a Virginia registered design professional such as an engineer or architect.

Sunroom and Florida Room Projects

These requirements pertain to sunrooms built on a post/pier foundation.

The following permits are required for sunroom and Florida room projects:

• Building permit
• Auxiliary permits: One or more of the following permits may be required, depending on the scope of work: electrical permit, gas permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements except for exclusively interior work. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Engineered soil reports (two copies) - Required to be prepared by a soil scientist or geotechnical engineer. A soils report is required for construction of any potentially habitable space (e.g. sunrooms) where the property is deemed to be in the Triassic Basin (the area of the county with an increased potential of "shrink-swell" soil). For more information, see the Requirements for Soil Reports and Footings (PDF).
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Elevations
• First floor and first floor framing plan
• A footing and foundation plan
• Roof and roof framing plan
• Structural cross section(s)

Sunrooms built on a post/pier foundation must be designed and sealed by a Virginia registered design professional, such as an engineer or architect, for compliance with section 602.10.6 (wall bracing) of the 2009 Virginia Residential Construction code.

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet.
• Scale -  Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches).
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes).
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape).

Swimming Pool Projects

For additional information, view the requirements for outdoor residential swimming pools pamphlet (PDF).

The following permits are required for swimming pool projects:

• Building permit for pool and barrier. The pool and barrier permits can be applied for together or separately. The building permit will not be issued until the electrical permit has been applied for.
• Electrical permit

Application Submission Requirements

• Residential Swimming Pool and Barrier Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed swimming pool location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed pool to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
  • All buffers, easements or floodplains located on your property (no structure may be located in these areas).
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit.
• Residential Plans Review Delivery Form (PDF) - Indicates whether you want the permit and forms mailed to you or held for three days at the Building Inspection office for you to pick up.
• Permit and other related fee payments - view the Residential Fee Schedule (PDF). Accepted payment methods include cash, check and credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa).

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• A plat showing the location of the new structure to existing property lines
• Plans showing the size, shape and construction of the pool

In ground pools are required to be sealed by a Virginia registered design professional such as an Engineer or Architect.