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Separate Electrical Meters
ZONING APPROVAL IS REQUIRED WHEN ADDING A SEPARATE ELECTRICAL METER.
Zoning approval is required when adding a separate electrical meter to a shed or detached structure on a residential property. This guide provides a step-by-step process to acquire zoning approval.
For more information or other zoning approval requirements, email [email protected] or call (703) 792-6830 (TTY: 711).
- STEP 1: Apply for Zoning Approval
To apply for zoning approval, you may apply online via ePortal or in-person.
To apply online, please visit ePortal. When you are logged into your ePortal account, go to "Apply", select "Plans", and select “Zoning Approval – Certificate of Zoning Approval.” Please follow the instructions on screen.
To apply in-person please bring all necessary documents and check in at the Early Assistance Desk, Development Services Building, 5 County Complex Court, Prince William, VA 22192, to obtain a service ticket for Zoning Counter services. The Zoning Counter is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Tickets for zoning counter services stop at 2:00 pm to ensure all customers are served by close of business.
Please note:
- A separate electrical meter may be requested to service a shed or detached structure on a residential property.
- Sheds and detached structures are prohibited from being used as a living structure, second dwelling, or for commercial business uses.
- If the amperage requested coincides with a commercial use, additional review will be required.
- If the shed or detached structure has not yet obtained zoning approval, this will be required prior to review of the separate electrical meter request.
- After zoning approval is issued, applications for the separate electrical meter must be submitted to the Building Development Division for review. For information on electrical meter requirements, call Building Development at (703) 792-6930 or email [email protected].
- This overview is for general information purposes only and may not reflect all aspects of the review process. Site specific requirements will be discussed at the time of formal review.
- STEP 2: Zoning Approval Requirements (What to bring)
- Provide a completed Zoning Application Form.
- Provide amperage for the requested electrical meter.
- Review the Zoning Fee Schedule for the applicable processing fee and pay by credit card.
- Review Step 3 below to check if other requirements may apply to your property or project.
- STEP 3: Other Requirements that may apply
- A Special Power of Attorney Affidavit is required if the person submitting the application is not the applicant.
- STEP 4: Helpful information, Tools & Resources
- To research your property, visit the County Mapper to find the zoning district, environmental impacts, and any overlay districts.
- Learn more about House Location Survey Plats.
- For record requests, contact the Records Center at (703) 792-6863.
- Approval from the electrical company may be required: