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Building Development Division

Correcting and Resolving Unpermitted Work

After you become aware of or receive notification about regulated construction improvements being present on your property that have not received required inspections and approvals, what should you do and where do you begin?

Virginia's Uniform Statewide Building Code requires verification that construction methods and materials are suitable and achieve minimum safety standards. We can and will help you achieve your goal of ensuring safe and proper improvements on your property. Use the steps outlined below as the corrective process to work towards compliance. The inspector(s) assigned to your case will be a great resource for explaining the details involved with each step.

Use the links provided below as a resource. They will assist you in understanding the process and connect you with resources. So begin here and contact us anytime during the process for further guidance:

  1. Read the violation notice carefully.
  2. Determine from which office the notice was sent. Contact either Property Code Enforcement or Building Code Enforcement and then contact the issuing inspector with questions regarding the notice. All of this information can be found on the violation notice.
  3. Obtain Zoning approval, when necessary. Call 703-792-6830 with questions.
  4. Obtain Environmental Services approval for structures located within the Resource Protection Area (RPA), when necessary. Call 703-792-7070 with questions.
  5. Obtain Health Department approval (well and septic systems), when necessary. Call 804-864-7470 with questions.
  6. Obtain Land Development approval (commercial sites), when necessary. Call 703-792-6830 with questions.
  7. Obtain Fire Marshal approval, when necessary. Call 703-792-6360 with questions.
  8. Submit building plans to the Building Development Division Building Plans Intake Section for review and approval, when necessary. Call 703-792-4040 with questions.
  9. Obtain appropriate permits (building, electrical, plumbing, etc.), when necessary. Call 703-792-6930 with questions.
  10. Schedule appropriate inspections and obtain an approved final inspection. Call 703-792-7006 with questions.
  11. Code cases are closed after appropriate permits are issued, final inspection is approved, removal of structure in question, etc. (compliance is based upon the violation issued).

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