Fairfax County Residential Permit Library Guide

Fairfax County uses its PLUS system and permit library to route residential building, site, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, solar, demolition, and retaining wall records.

Permit takeaway

Fairfax County describes applications in PLUS as records, and Land Development Services issues applicable site and building permits after the correct record type is selected.

Zoning and placement

Some projects require site or grading review in addition to building review, especially when land disturbance, retaining walls, or new detached structures are involved.

Building and trade review

The residential permit library separates new buildings, additions and alterations, miscellaneous work, retaining walls, demolition, trades, and solar into different record types.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if you are unsure which PLUS record fits the project, if the property is in an incorporated town, or if grading, demolition, or trade permits may be involved.

Documents to prepare

• PLUS account
• Project scope
• Plans or documents required by record type
• Site or grading information when applicable
• Owner or contractor authorization

Inspection planning

• Choose the correct residential record
• Upload plans in PLUS
• Respond to review comments
• Download approved plans and permit card
• Schedule required inspections

Official sources

• Fairfax County Permit Library
• Fairfax County Residential Building Permit Library
• Fairfax County When a Permit is Required

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.