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Building Development Division

Residential Pole Barn

The term 'pole barn' has varying significance. Some people will focus on the word 'barn' and assume a farm building is being constructed for agricultural use. Other people focus on the word 'pole' indicating a Post & Beam construction method. However, it is the intended use of the structure that determines the approval process.

Any detached accessory structure, including a pole barn, will require approval by the Zoning Administration Division before submission for review by the Building Development Division for a building permit. A new grading plan may be required in some cases. Contact the Zoning Administration Division at 703-792-6830 or [email protected] for requirements.

Regardless of the proposed method of construction, if the property in question is zoned A-1 Agricultural and has been approved by the Zoning Administrator for agricultural uses as defined in Part 100 of the Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed structure is intended for agricultural use, the proposed structure may be exempt from Building Code Compliance as provided by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. However, if the property is zoned A-1, but the principal use of the property is residential, or it is zoned Residential with a principal residential use, or if the proposed use of the building is not strictly and solely for Agricultural purpose as defined by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, a building permit may be required. Please contact the Zoning Administration Division at 703-792-6830 or [email protected] for questions regarding the zoning of the property or the Building Development Division at 703-792-4040 for questions regarding the use of the building.

  • STEP ONE: Zoning Approval
  • STEP TWO: Building Plan Approval
  • STEP THREE: Permit Issuance
  • STEP FOUR: Construction Inspections