New Streamlined Tent Permitting and Inspection Process Saves Customers’ Time and Money

The Prince William County Development Services’ Building Development Division, in partnership with the Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO), today announced a new inspection process for temporary tents. Effective July 1, 2026, the updated procedure removes redundant oversight, accelerates approvals, and eliminates specific inspection fees for local businesses and residents.

Changes in operations will now authorize County building inspectors to conduct routine fire code inspections for temporary tents, during their scheduled routines. This eliminates the need for separate, sequential visits from both entities, optimizing County staffing resources and accelerating project timelines.

The initiative originated directly from frontline County employees who identified the operational duplication and proposed the solution to leadership. "Our teams are continuously looking to find efficiencies and improve processes, especially where departmental responsibilities overlap," said Ricky O’Connor, Acting Director, Department of Development Services.

"This employee-led initiative cuts red tape, better utilizes County personnel, and ultimately saves our customers both time and money," shared Tom LaBelle, Chief, Department of Fire and Rescue.

Key Program Details and Fee Reductions

• Fee Elimination: The FMO 149 inspection fee (FMO building/tent final inspection), scheduled to be $303.45 for Fiscal Year 2027, is permanently waived.
• Zero-Cost Exceptions: In scenarios where an FMO inspection remains mandatory, the County will not assess a fee.

Scope and Safety Exceptions

• The Fire Marshal’s Office will retain inspection authority for high-risk or large-scale structures, including but not limited to, cooking operations, fuel-powered heating appliances, fuel storge (LP Tanks) within or adjacent to tents, structures exceeding 5,400 square feet or accommodating more than 300 occupants, and other complex conditions requiring specialized fire code interpretation.

Find more information on www.pwcva.gov at Temporary Tents. Customers can access updated permitting guidelines and application forms starting July 1, 2026, online through ePortal. If you have questions, please contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at (703) 792-6360 or email [email protected].