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Address Validation & Permits

Address Validation for Commercial Use

Address Validation by the Geospatial Technology Services (GTS) Office is required for all commercial properties when applying for a permit. Address validation is the first step in the permitting process and ensures that permits are issued under the correct address. Please note that an address assigned by the GTS Office is the official address. Self-addressing is not accepted in Prince William County. Any spaces that are self-addressed are subject to being reassigned by the GTS Office at the expense of the owner and/or tenants impacted.

How to Apply

As of September 2, 2025, customers applying for an address validation must use the new Address Validation application. This updated form has been designed to collect more targeted information based on your project, reduce follow‑up questions, and help GTS gain a clearer understanding of your project.

  • Complete the new Address Validation application.
  • Upload all required documents directly through the form. Please note that documents sent via email should be limited to NDA projects and existing plans that have been updated since their initial submission to GTS.

Documentation Requirements

  • If your project includes any new structures or modifications to the external building footprint/location, you must upload the (1) land plan cover sheet, (2) land plan site/geometry sheets, (3) building plan cover sheet and (4) building plan architectural sheets.
  • If your project includes any unoccupied structures that a person is likely to enter (such as a shed or gazebo) you must upload the (1) land plan cover sheet, (2) land plan site/geometry sheets, (3) building plan cover sheet and (4) building plan architectural sheets.
  • If your project includes any unoccupied structures that a person is unlikely/unable to enter (such as a retaining wall or sign) you must upload the (1) land plan cover sheet, (2) land plan site/geometry sheets.
  • If your project includes any modifications to walls or doors within the building or a change of use, you must upload the (1) building plan cover sheet and (2) building plan architectural sheets.
  • If any exterior access (doors, sidewalks, driveways, roads, etc.) is changing, you must upload the (1) land plan cover sheet and (2) land plan site/geometry sheets.

Applying for Multiple Validations

You may be able to apply for multiple validations with a single application. If all details are identical except for the address and plan sheets, and the addresses (or spaces needing address assignments) are clearly delineated on the plans, you may submit a single application. Please be sure to include all relevant addresses and documentation when you submit your address validation application.

We appreciate your understanding that requests involving many address validations – whether submitted through a single application or multiple applications – may take longer than average for GTS to process.

Existing Address Validations

If you already have a validation letter issued before September 2, 2025, and your project details have not changed, your existing letter will remain valid through the end of 2025. If your project has changed, GTS will determine whether a new application and letter are required. Please reach out to us via email at [email protected] to see whether you need to reapply.

Prince William Water Address Listings

Prince William Water (PWW) Address Listings for new developments must accompany any requests for utility permits when applying for water tap fees. Prior to submitting the forms to PWW, please complete the Prince William Water Address Listing Form with list of addresses for approval. Email the completed form to [email protected]. 

Once approved by GTS, a signed copy of the PWW Address Listing will be forwarded to [email protected] and you will continue the process with Prince William Water.

FAQS about the Address Validation Update and Existing Validations

1. What is changing with the Address Validation process? 

Starting September 2, 2025, Prince William County Geospatial Technology Services will use a new Address Validation application and an updated validation letter. The new application is designed to collect only the information needed for address validation, based on the work you describe. By capturing clearer details upfront—including when building layouts are likely required—we aim to reduce follow-up questions, making the address validation or assignment process faster for you. Additionally, the updated letter will provide clearer information that is consistent with language used by other PWC agencies about any validated addresses.

2. Why did the County make these changes?

We streamlined the process to make it faster, more accurate, and easier to understand. The new application and letter reduce unnecessary steps, improve communication, and ensure that address information is consistent across County agencies. 

3. How will this affect me? 

If you submit an address validation request after September 2, 2025, you will:

4. Do I need to do anything now? 

No action is needed until you submit a new address validation request. At that time, simply use the updated application form and review the new letter format when you receive it.

5. Will I need to update an old validation letter when applying for zoning approval or permits?

If applying in 2025, probably not. Through December 2025, if nothing about your project has changed, you will not need to update from the old version of the letter. If your project has changed, GTS will update the old or switch to the new format on a case-by-case basis. Starting in 2026, you will need to submit a new application in order to procure an updated address validation letter.