Bolthole Index

Arlington County, Virginia

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Arlington County, Virginia

36Index Score / 100
#111 of 133 in Virginia

Arlington County, Virginia requires building permits for residential building work, with applications submitted online through Permit Arlington1. Countywide zoning applies, but lot size, coverage, height and other standards vary by district2,3. Building permits and zoning come from Arlington County; septic and private-well permits for any parcel that uses them come from the Virginia Department of Health4,5.

Do you need a building permit in Arlington County, Virginia?

Arlington County requires a building permit for residential building work, subject to the exemptions in the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

Arlington County requires a building permit for residential building work, subject to the exemptions in the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code1. Residential applications must be submitted online through Permit Arlington1. New residential construction must complete the applicable building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, demolition and possible fire or elevator inspections9. A new single-family dwelling cannot be occupied before Arlington County issues its certificate of occupancy7. A person may qualify to build or supervise one personally owned primary residence for personal use during a 24-month period without a contractor license, but that exemption does not waive permits or code compliance6. Fees are not a single number: Arlington County publishes separate fee schedules for the Inspection Services Division, the Zoning Division and the Department of Environmental Services, and some permits involve more than one schedule10.

Who issues building permits in Arlington County, and how do you reach them?

Arlington County's building permit office operates as Permit Arlington, housed at the Bozman Government Center, 2100 Clarendon Boulevard.

Arlington County's building permit office operates as Permit Arlington, housed at the Bozman Government Center, 2100 Clarendon Boulevard1. Call the Permit Arlington Center at 703-228-3800 with general building permit questions1. For questions about easements, floodplain review, resource protection areas or land-disturbance permits, contact the Department of Environmental Services Permitting & Inspections Counter at 703-228-3629 instead1. If your project might create or worsen a zoning nonconformity, contact the Zoning Division at 703-228-3883 before you submit1.

Does Arlington County have zoning?

Yes.

Yes. Arlington County's Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map regulate use and development throughout the county2. The practical answer depends on the parcel's district or special planning area: allowed uses, minimum lot size, lot coverage, building height, bulk, siting, parking and density can vary, and some projects may need a site-plan or use-permit exception1,3. Setbacks also vary by structure and zoning district1. Ask the Zoning Division to identify the parcel's district and any legal nonconformity before relying on a neighboring property's design1. Building permits, zoning review and floodplain review sit with different Arlington County offices, so a parcel can clear one and still need another1.

How do septic permits work in Arlington County?

The Virginia Department of Health administers onsite sewage permitting for an Arlington County parcel that uses septic.

The Virginia Department of Health administers onsite sewage permitting for an Arlington County parcel that uses septic4. A construction permit is required for an onsite sewage system, and the published fee for a construction permit without engineer or soil-evaluator documentation is $4255. Private wells are separate: a private-well construction or abandonment permit is required where a well is used, at $3005. Septic and well permits stay with the Virginia Department of Health, not the county building office4. Applicants for new construction are advised to seek a certification letter determining whether the land is suitable11. Installation ordinarily must be inspected and approved by the local health department unless a licensed professional engineer or onsite soil evaluator designed and certified it under the state exception12. About 53.1% of Arlington's soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, but a parcel-level evaluation still controls feasibility13. Confirm public-sewer availability first because Arlington is served almost entirely by public sewer4.

Can you live in an RV, tiny home or manufactured home on your land in Arlington County?

We could not confirm an Arlington County rule allowing long-term RV occupancy, temporary camping on private property or a distinct tiny-home use, so ask the Zoning Division before placing one.

We could not confirm an Arlington County rule allowing long-term RV occupancy, temporary camping on private property or a distinct tiny-home use, so ask the Zoning Division before placing one2. Countywide zoning applies, and allowed uses plus lot size, coverage, height and siting vary by district2,3. Virginia's campground rules do not establish a general right to occupy an RV as a residence outside a regulated campground14. Virginia law conditionally protects qualifying manufactured homes, subject to the district and specified real-property, individual-lot and certificate-of-occupancy conditions15. Short-term lodging is separately allowed as a regulated accessory homestay in a primary dwelling, with an accessory-homestay permit required8.

How do you build a home in Arlington County, step by step?

Confirm the zoning district, allowed use, lot size, setbacks, lot coverage, height and any nonconformity with the Zoning Division.

  1. Confirm the zoning district, allowed use, lot size, setbacks, lot coverage, height and any nonconformity with the Zoning Division1,3.
  2. Check whether the parcel is in the 100-year floodplain, a county-required flood buffer or a Resource Protection Area with the DES Permitting & Inspections Counter1.
  3. If public sewer or water is unavailable, secure the applicable state septic or private-well approval5.
  4. Submit residential plans online through Permit Arlington and complete the published review process1.
  5. If the lot connects to a state-maintained road, a new or modified driveway entrance needs a Virginia Department of Transportation land use permit, which is separate from the county building permit16.
  6. Complete every inspection applicable to the work9.
  7. For a new single-family dwelling, submit the final survey and obtain the certificate of occupancy before moving in7.

What should you check before you buy land in Arlington County?

Arlington County has about 9,007 people per square mile, so parcel constraints matter more here than assumptions drawn from rural Virginia.

Arlington County has about 9,007 people per square mile, so parcel constraints matter more here than assumptions drawn from rural Virginia13. Verify the zoning district and its allowed use, minimum lot size, lot coverage, height, siting and setback rules before buying1,3. Check whether a floodplain permit or Resource Protection Area review applies1. Confirm public sewer and water availability; a parcel using onsite sewage or a private well needs the applicable Virginia Department of Health permit5. The effective property tax rate is about 0.9%, the median annual bill is about $7,774, and typical annual homeowner's insurance is about $1,64713.

Watch-outs

  • Arlington County zoning is countywide, but lot size, coverage, building height and allowed uses vary by district or special planning area2,3.
  • A floodplain permit is required in the 100-year floodplain or a county-required flood buffer zone, and a Resource Protection Area requires separate review material1.
  • Short-term rentals are limited to the county's regulated accessory-homestay framework; do not assume any dwelling can be rented by the night17.

Sources

17 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 9, 2026

  1. Residential Building Permit
  2. Zoning Ordinance
  3. Planning
  4. Division of Onsite Water and Wastewater Services
  5. Onsite Sewage Forms and Application Fees - Environmental Health
  6. § 54.1-1101. Exemptions; failure to obtain certificate of occupancy; penalties (Virginia statewide rule)
  7. Residential Building Permit
  8. Short-Term Residential Rentals
  9. Residential Building Permit
  10. Permit Arlington Center Fee Schedules
  11. Division of Onsite Water and Wastewater Services
  12. 12VAC5-610-320. Inspection and correction (Virginia statewide rule)
  13. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  14. Code of Virginia, Title 35.1 — Hotels, Restaurants, Summer Camps, and Campgrounds (Virginia statewide rule)
  15. § 15.2-2290. Uniform regulations for manufactured housing (Virginia statewide rule)
  16. Land use permits (Virginia statewide rule)
  17. Short-Term Housing Rentals

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Arlington County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleArlington CountyFalls Church CityAlexandria CityFairfax CityFairfax CountyManassas Park CityPrince William County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsVDHVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVDHCounty Health Dept.Not publishedVDH

County locator

Arlington County in Virginia

36
County map
Arlington County highlighted among the Virginia counties · colored by Index score

How Arlington County scores

36 / 100 · #111 of 133 in Virginia · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion1046% ev.
Self-Sufficiency6288% ev.
Admin Boringness3990% ev.
Durability86100% ev.
Property Autonomy66100% ev.
Carry Cost31100% ev.

Evidence strength: 84%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$824kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$150,000Land / acre
44.4"Annual rain
1.7% of yrsSevere drought
6.5 / yr (+6.1)Mid-century 100°F days
13.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.33" (+5.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.46×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,647Home insurance / yr
2.6% / yrInsurance growth
0.86%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
3,710,164People within 30 min
12,778,540People within 2 hr
3,142,278Radius comparison (15 mi)
9,007.1People / sq mi
11.1%Federal land
88.7%Land at 15% slope or less
53.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
2,380 acWorkable land screen
56.6°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Arlington County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Arlington County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Residential building construction and covered residential work in Arlington County.

    • Some residential properties, including apartment buildings with three or more dwelling units, are treated as commercial and require commercial building permits.
    • Exemptions are referenced in Section 108.2 of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.
    • Certain minor work may be exempt; the official page gives roof-covering examples where no permit is required.
    “Building permits are required to protect the health, safety and welfare of residents. Failure to obtain the required permit is a violation of the law.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Residential building work in Arlington County.
      “Building permits are required to protect the health, safety and welfare of residents. Failure to obtain the required permit is a violation of the law.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    Construction, alteration, removal, demolition, equipment, use, occupancy, location and maintenance of buildings and structures in Arlington County.

    • The Uniform Statewide Building Code is the state code adopted and promulgated by the Virginia State Board of Housing.
    • The County Code states that the code is filed in the Inspection Services Division and available for viewing during regular business days.
    “Nothing in this chapter or in the Building Code adopted in this chapter shall be held to invalidate any part of the Zoning Ordinance of the County, dated July 15, 1950, except in cases of direct conflict.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    New residential construction and applicable residential additions and alterations.

    • New residential construction must receive required building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, demolition and possibly fire or elevator inspections.
    • Typical inspections include footing, foundation walls, rough trades, framing, insulation and final inspections.
    • Inspections must be scheduled through Permit Arlington; additional inspections may be required.
    “New residential construction must adhere to all of the required inspections, including (but not limited to) building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, demolition, and possible fire or elevator. Residential additions and alterations require some of these inspections.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Residential construction requiring Arlington County Inspection Services Division review and inspections.
      “New residential construction must adhere to all of the required inspections, including (but not limited to) building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, demolition, and possible fire or elevator.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Residential and commercial projects requiring a certificate of occupancy in Arlington County.

    • No occupancy may occur before issuance of a CO.
    • COs are required for both residential and commercial projects, but are not required for additions to single-family dwellings.
    • Large commercial or multifamily projects may require more than one CO type.
    • The application should generally begin at least two weeks before intended occupancy.

    recommended application lead time: >= 2 weeks (The page says to apply as early as possible.)

    “A certificate of occupancy (CO) ensures that a building or a proposed use of a building/land complies with all state building code regulations and County laws. No occupancy can occur before issuance of a CO.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New single-family residential dwellings.
      “No occupancy can occur before issuance of a CO.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Use and development of all land located within Arlington County.

    • The zoning ordinance and zoning boundaries map regulate county land use and development.
    • Specific requirements vary by zoning district and applicable form-based code.
    “The Arlington County Zoning Ordinance(PDF, 13MB) and the Zoning Boundaries Map (the Zoning Map) regulate the use and development of all land located within the County.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present — Use and development of all land located within Arlington County.
      “The Arlington County Zoning Ordinance(PDF, 13MB) and the Zoning Boundaries Map (the Zoning Map) regulate the use and development of all land located within the County.”
    • Present — Use and development of all land located within Arlington County.
      “The Arlington County Zoning Ordinance(PDF, 13MB) and the Zoning Boundaries Map (the Zoning Map) regulate the use and development of all land located within the County.”
  • Local zoningPresent

    Arlington County administers countywide zoning through its Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Boundaries Map.

    • The ordinance regulates land use and development throughout the County.
    • The County Board amends the ordinance and map after Planning Commission recommendation and a duly advertised public hearing.
    “The Arlington County Zoning Ordinance(PDF, 13MB) and the Zoning Boundaries Map (the Zoning Map) regulate the use and development of all land located within the County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Countywide aggregate of Arlington County zoning districts and special planning areas.
      “It regulates land uses; lot size and coverage; building height, bulk and siting; parking requirements; and density for each district.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Zoning districts and boundaries throughout Arlington County.

    • The County publishes the Zoning Ordinance, Zoning Boundaries Map, interactive map and static maps.
    • The County Board alone has authority to amend the ordinance and map, after Planning Commission recommendation and a duly advertised public hearing.
    “The Arlington County Zoning Ordinance(PDF, 13MB) and the Zoning Boundaries Map (the Zoning Map) regulate the use and development of all land located within the County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Arlington County zoning districts and zoning boundaries.
      “The Arlington County Zoning Ordinance(PDF, 13MB) and the Zoning Boundaries Map (the Zoning Map) regulate the use and development of all land located within the County.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lot-size requirements by Arlington zoning district.

    • The county planning page states that lot size is regulated for each district.
    • Special exceptions may be available through site-plan or use-permitting processes.
    “It regulates land uses; lot size and coverage; building height, bulk and siting; parking requirements; and density for each district.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Placement of structures on lots in Arlington County.

    • Requirements depend on the applicable zoning district.
    • The residential permit page states that structures must meet front, side and rear lot-line and street-distance requirements.
    “The Zoning Ordinance provides requirements for where different types of structures can be placed on a lot, called setbacks. This means any structure has to be a certain distance from front, side and rear lot lines, as well as from the street.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Zoning lot coverage for residential projects in Arlington County.

    • The required worksheet is applicable to the property's zoning district.
    • Zoning lot coverage is distinct from Department of Environmental Services land-disturbance requirements.
    “Provide lot coverage by listing the information on the plans or by completing the Lot Coverage worksheet applicable to your Zoning District. Learn more about lot coverage (these requirements only reflect Zoning Lot Coverage).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Lot coverage requirements by Arlington zoning district.
      “Provide lot coverage by listing the information on the plans or by completing the Lot Coverage worksheet applicable to your Zoning District.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Building height for residential structures in Arlington County.

    • Height information for single-family dwellings is located in §3.1.6 of the Zoning Ordinance.
    • Section 3.1.6.A.1 is specific to R districts.
    • Plans must list building height or use the Building Height Worksheet.
    • Elevations must show height and preconstruction and post-construction exterior grade.
    “Provide building height by listing the information on the plans or by completing the Building Height Worksheet. Building height information for single family dwellings is located in §3.1.6 of the Zoning Ordinance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Building-height requirements by Arlington zoning district.
      “Building height information for single family dwellings is located in §3.1.6 of the Zoning Ordinance. §3.1.6.A.1 is specific to R districts.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A tiny house proposed for use as an accessory dwelling in Arlington County.

    • The building must be permanent, meaning affixed to the ground, and comply with all other Zoning Ordinance requirements.
    • The current County permit page requires an accessory dwelling to be a complete independent dwelling unit with kitchen and bath, on a lot with a main dwelling, under the same ownership as the main dwelling, and occupied by no more than three persons.
    • An AD Permit application must comply with Zoning Ordinance §12.9.2 and applicable coverage, density, and dimensional requirements; the applicant must also apply for a residential building permit.
    • The County's 2019 staff response stated that there were no building-code provisions for a “tiny house” at that time.

    maximum accessory-dwelling occupancy: <= 3 persons (Applies to an accessory dwelling.)

    “The building must be permanent (i.e., affixed to the ground) and comply with all other requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Residential construction and additions located within the 100-year floodplain or County-required Flood Buffer Zone.

    • A floodplain permit is required if the property is within the 100-year floodplain or County-required Flood Buffer Zone.
    • The applicant must provide a certified house-location plat showing floodplain, Resource Protection Area and Arlington easements.

    floodplain threshold: 100-year floodplain (or County-required Flood Buffer Zone)

    “The Floodplain permit is required if the property is within the 100 year floodplain or County-required Flood Buffer Zone.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Residential development within the 100-year floodplain or County-required Flood Buffer Zone.
      “The Floodplain permit is required if the property is within the 100 year floodplain or County-required Flood Buffer Zone.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Accessory homestays and other short-term housing rentals in Arlington County.

    • The host must be the primary resident and live at the property at least 185 days per year.
    • The homestay must operate within a legally established dwelling unit.
    • The host must comply with zoning and safety regulations.
    • The stay must be less than 30 days.
    • An Accessory Homestay Permit, business license, and tax compliance are required as applicable.

    primary-residence occupancy: >= 185 days per year · maximum rental duration: < 30 days

    “You must be the primary resident of the property (living there at least 185 days per year);”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory homestay short-term residential rentals in Arlington County.
      “On December 10, 2016, and January 28, 2017, the County Board adopted new Zoning Ordinance regulations that define a short-term residential rental as a new home occupation called “accessory homestay” and creates standards for this use to allow it in units used by either the owner or a renter as his/her primary dwelling.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Arlington County building and land-development permits and related applications.

    • Separate fee schedules apply to the Inspection Services Division, Zoning Division, and Department of Environmental Services.
    • Some permits involve fees from more than one schedule.
    • The page provides links to the applicable official fee schedules.
    “Permit Arlington Center fee schedules provide the range of fees charged for building and land development. Fees include permitting, plan review, enforcement, inspection, service delivery and performance agreements, and conditions.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Residential building-permit application and review process in Arlington County.

    • Applications are submitted online through Permit Arlington.
    • The process includes completeness review, plan review, inspections and a certificate-of-occupancy step when required.
    • Construction work cannot begin until permits are approved and posted.
    • Required documents and review times vary by project type.
    “Residential building permit applications must be submitted online via Permit Arlington.”

Virginia rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner performing or supervising construction, removal, repair, or improvement of a primary residence in Virginia, including Arlington County.

    • The exemption is limited to no more than one primary residence owned by the person and for the person's own use during any 24-month period.
    • An exempt person under subdivision A 7 must obtain a certificate of occupancy before conveying the constructed, repaired, or improved property to a third-party purchaser, unless the purchaser acknowledges in writing that no certificate of occupancy has issued and consents to acquire without one.
    • An exempt person under subdivision A 7 must comply with the Uniform Statewide Building Code.
    • Violating the certificate-of-occupancy or Uniform Statewide Building Code requirement is a Class 1 misdemeanor; a third or subsequent conviction within 36 months is a Class 6 felony.

    primary residences: <= 1 residence (Must be owned by the person and for the person's own use.) · measurement period: per 24 months (Applies to the one-primary-residence limitation.)

    “Any person who performs or supervises [...] no more than one primary residence owned by him and for his own use during any 24-month period;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — A person performing or supervising construction, removal, repair, or improvement of one primary residence owned by that person and for that person's own use, for contractor-licensing purposes.
      “Any person who performs or supervises the construction, removal, repair, or improvement of no more than one primary residence owned by him and for his own use during any 24-month period;”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Bedrooms in residential dwelling units subject to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code; this is a bedroom-area standard, not a stated statewide minimum total floor area for an entire dwelling unit.

    • Each bedroom must contain at least 70 square feet of floor area.
    • A bedroom occupied by more than one person must contain at least 50 square feet of floor area for each occupant.

    minimum bedroom floor area: >= 70 square feet · minimum bedroom floor area per occupant: >= 50 square feet per occupant (Applies where a bedroom is occupied by more than one person.)

    “each bedroom shall contain at least 70 square feet of floor area, [...] at least 50 square feet of floor area for each occupant.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Camping units, including travel trailers and motor homes, on land that meets the statutory definition of a campground (three or more campsites). This is the statewide health-law definition only. It is not a statewide rule on RV occupancy on ordinary private land.

    • A place is a campground only if three or more campsites are occupied or intended for occupancy, or facilities are maintained for camping units for overnight or longer periods.
    • The definition expressly excludes a summer camp, migrant labor camp, park for manufactured homes (as defined in this section and in §§ 32.1-203 and 36-85.3), construction camp, and storage area for unoccupied camping units.
    • It also excludes property upon which the individual owner may choose to camp and not be prohibited or encumbered by covenants, restrictions, and conditions from providing his sanitary facilities within his property lines.
    • This section only defines the term for Title 35.1. The excerpt does not say what the campground regulations require or whether camping is allowed on a given parcel. Zoning and long-term RV occupancy on private land are left to local governments, and I did not find a statewide rule on them.

    minimum campsites for campground definition: >= 3 campsites (excludes summer camps, migrant labor camps, manufactured home parks, construction camps, storage areas for unoccupied camping units, and individual-owner property as described in the statute)

    “"campground" means any area, place, parcel, or tract of land, by whatever name called, on which three or more campsites are occupied or intended for occupancy”
  • Camping on your landAllowed (with conditions)

    Erection of a tent on private property for a temporary private or family-related event.

    • The tent must be intended as a temporary structure for three days or less.
    • The tent must be used primarily for private or family-related events, including weddings and estate sales.
    • The rule bars only a local special exception or special-use-permit requirement; other applicable laws are not addressed by this section.

    maximum temporary-structure period: <= 3 days (Tent must be used primarily for private or family-related events.)

    “A zoning ordinance shall not require [...] a special use permit [...] to erect a tent on private property [...] for a period of three days or less”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Placement and occupancy of manufactured homes in Virginia localities that adopt and enforce zoning ordinances.

    • In agricultural zoning districts, or similarly classified districts where agricultural, horticultural, or forest uses are dominant and site-built housing is allowed, placement of manufactured homes must be permitted.
    • In other zoning districts where site-built housing is allowed, the manufactured home must be converted to real property under § 46.2-653.1, have its certificate of occupancy issued within five years following the manufacture date on the data plate, and be placed on an individual lot.
    • Localities may adopt uniform standards applying to all residential structures in the zoning district, but those standards may not exclude manufactured housing compliant with the Virginia Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Law.
    • Restrictive covenants may continue to impose obligations.
    • Local zoning and land-use controls that do not affect construction or installation remain in force; site preparation, utility connections, skirting, and maintenance must meet the Uniform Statewide Building Code.

    certificate of occupancy deadline from manufacture date: <= 5 years (date listed on the home's data plate) · placement requirement: individual lots

    “the placement of manufactured homes shall be permitted for manufactured homes that are (i) converted to real property in accordance with § 46.2-653.1”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units on residential dwelling lots in single-family residential zoning districts, under Virginia Code § 15.2-2292.4 effective July 1, 2027.

    • The ADU must be attached or detached, provide complete independent living facilities, be on the same lot as a proposed or existing primary residence, and include facilities for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
    • The locality must treat ADUs as a permitted accessory use in single-family residential zoning districts, subject to the statute's listed exceptions and conditions.
    • An applicant must first obtain an ADU permit from the locality; the locality may charge no more than $500 for that permit, in addition to applicable inspection, site, or building permit fees.
    • Localities may require a rental lease term of at least 30 consecutive days; replacement or dedicated parking; floor-area, lot-coverage, and impervious-area limits of at least 350 square feet on lots under 2,500 square feet and at least 500 square feet on lots of 2,500 square feet or greater; building-code, water, sewer, septic, emergency-access, flood-zone, stormwater, historic-district, corridor-protection, and Air Installations Compatible Use Zone compliance; owner occupancy of either the ADU or primary dwelling at application; an ADU no more than 500 feet from the primary dwelling; no ADU on a residential lot with more than one dwelling unit; and no separate sale or subdivision from the primary dwelling.
    • Localities may not require rear or side setbacks greater than those applicable to the primary dwelling or accessory structures, more restrictive ADU restrictions regarding height, rear or side setbacks, lot size or coverage, or building frontage than for single-family dwellings in the same zoning area, restrictive covenants concerning an ADU on a qualifying lot, public-street improvements except for repair or reconstruction of construction-related disturbance, or consanguinity or affinity between occupants.
    • The statute does not supersede private contracts, recorded declarations, condominium instruments, common-interest-community declarations, cooperative instruments, or property-owners'-association declarations.
    • The statute does not apply to existing ADU permits approved before July 1, 2027.
    • The statute does not restrict a locality from passing before July 1, 2027, an ADU ordinance or amendment that substantially complies with the statute.
    • The statute does not apply to a locality that adopted an ADU ordinance before January 1, 2026.

    ADU permit fee maximum: <= 500 USD (Additional inspection, site, or building permit fees may apply.) · minimum floor-area limit on lots under 2,500 square feet: >= 350 square feet (Locality may impose limits on floor area, lot coverage, and impervious area.) · minimum floor-area limit on lots of at least 2,500 square feet: >= 500 square feet (Locality may impose limits on floor area, lot coverage, and impervious area.) · maximum ADU distance from primary dwelling: <= 500 feet (A locality may require this limit.) · effective date: 2027-07-01

    “§ 15.2-2292.4. (Effective July 1, 2027) Development and use of accessory dwelling units. [...] Zoning ordinances for single-family residential zoning districts shall be deemed to include accessory dwelling units as a permitted accessory use, and no locality shall require compliance with any other requirements except as provided in this section.”
  • Who permits septicState

    Statewide supervision and control of onsite sewage systems, alternative discharging sewage systems, and treatment works affecting public health and welfare.

    • Local or district health departments administer application, inspection, and permit functions under the statewide framework.
    • Alternative discharging sewage systems are also subject to applicable State Water Control Board regulations and permits.
    “The Board shall have supervision and control over the safe and sanitary collection, conveyance, transportation, treatment, and disposal of sewage by onsite sewage systems and alternative discharging sewage systems, and treatment works as they affect the public health and welfare.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, expansion, or modification of a sewage disposal system on an Arlington County parcel, including a rare parcel not served by public sewer; operation of a sewage disposal system after construction also requires an operation permit.

    • Virginia requires a written construction permit before construction, expansion, or modification of a sewage disposal system.
    • A written operation permit is required before operating a sewage disposal system constructed after the effective date of the chapter.
    • Permit conditions may be imposed, and the system may not be constructed, modified, or operated in violation of those conditions.
    • Requests for a sewage disposal construction permit must initially be directed to the district or local health department.
    • For design flows under 1,000 gallons per day that are exempt from the professional-engineer licensing requirement in § 54.1-402 A 11, formal plans and specifications are waived.
    • Type I systems generally require an application; Type II systems may require an application, preliminary conference, and informal or formal plans depending on size and complexity; Type III systems require an application, preliminary conference, and formal plans, specifications, and design criteria.
    • Conditional permits may address reduced water flow, occupancy limits, intermittent or seasonal use, or temporary use not exceeding one year, subject to the regulation's conditions.
    • The VDH fee page lists onsite sewage application fees effective July 1, 2019, including $425 for an onsite sewage construction permit without OSE/PE documentation and $225 with OSE/PE documentation for systems under 1,000 gpd.
    • The regulation's sewage-handling permit rule separately requires a written permit for persons removing or transporting septic contents, with exceptions for certain vehicle or vessel owners and sewage-treatment-plant employees.

    design flow threshold: < 1000 gallons per day (Formal plans and specifications are waived only where the system is exempt from the professional-engineer licensing requirement in § 54.1-402 A 11.) · onsite sewage construction permit fee without OSE/PE documentation: 425 USD (Fee page states effective July 1, 2019; listed for onsite sewage system only.) · onsite sewage construction permit fee with OSE/PE documentation: 225 USD (Fee page states effective July 1, 2019; listed for onsite sewage systems under 1,000 gpd.)

    “No person or owner shall cause or allow the construction, expansion or modification of a sewage disposal system without the written construction permit from the commissioner which authorizes the construction or modifications.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Onsite sewage systems in Virginia, including any applicable system in Arlington County.
      “Applicants for new construction are advised to apply for a certification letter to determine if land is suitable for a sewage system and to apply for a construction permit”
    • Required — Construction of onsite sewage systems in Arlington County where onsite sewage is used.
      “Construction permit for onsite sewage system only, no OSE/PE documentation | $425”
    • Required — Construction, operation, expansion, or modification of sewage disposal systems, including septic systems, in Arlington County under Virginia's statewide sewage regulations.
      “No person or owner shall construct, operate, expand or modify a sewage disposal or handling system without a written permit from the commissioner. A. Sewage disposal permits. No person or owner shall cause or allow the construction, expansion or modification of a sewage disposal system without the written construction permit from the commissioner which authorizes the construction or modifications. Furthermore, no person or owner shall cause or permit any sewage disposal system constructed after the effective date of this chapter to be operated without a written operation permit issued by the commissioner which authorizes the operation of the sewage disposal system, and/or nonpublic drinking water system”
    • Required — Construction, operation, expansion, or modification of a sewage disposal or handling system in Virginia.
      “No person or owner shall construct, operate, expand or modify a sewage disposal or handling system without a written permit from the commissioner.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Installation of sewage disposal systems statewide.

    • For installations not pursuant to a design certified by a licensed professional engineer or onsite soil evaluator, no part may be covered or used until inspected, corrected if necessary, and approved by the district or local health department, unless expressly authorized.
    • Installations under a certified professional engineer or onsite soil evaluator design are exempt from the local-health-department inspection requirement in 12VAC5-610-320 and instead require the certifier's inspection report under 12VAC5-610-330.
    • The rule is inapplicable to a Type III septage disposal facility.
    “This section shall not apply to any sewage disposal system installation that is pursuant to a design certified by a licensed professional engineer or onsite soil evaluator.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Construction, expansion, modification, and operation of sewage disposal systems, including onsite systems, in Virginia.

    • A written construction permit from the Commissioner is required before construction, expansion, or modification.
    • A sewage disposal system constructed after the chapter's effective date requires a written operation permit before operation.
    • Permit conditions may be imposed and the system may not be constructed, modified, or operated in violation of those conditions.
    • Site conditions may limit or prohibit onsite systems; the regulations establish different criteria for systems relying on undisturbed soils and fill soils.
    “No person or owner shall construct, operate, expand or modify a sewage disposal or handling system without a written permit from the commissioner.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Private-well construction in Virginia.

    • The applicant must apply to the Department and receive a permit before construction; the application must include a site plan, although no survey plat is required.
    • The landowner is responsible for locating the well on the landowner's property.
    • The permit must issue no later than 60 days after application and under Board regulations; an inspection is required after construction.
    • Under the current administrative regulation, construction, alteration, abandonment, and increasing a private well's depth require a written construction permit from the Commissioner after November 6, 2024.
    • Permit conditions may be imposed; construction or modification may not violate them.
    • Replacement of a well pump, replacement of a well seal or cap with an equivalent seal or cap, and vertical extension of well casing above ground are not well alterations.
    • Except as provided in 12VAC5-630-320, a written inspection statement is required before operating a private well.
    • Except as provided in 12VAC5-630-270, 12VAC5-630-290, and 12VAC5-630-300, a construction permit is valid for 18 months with one 18-month renewal.

    permit issuance deadline: <= 60 days from application · construction permit validity: 18 months (Except as provided in 12VAC5-630-270, 12VAC5-630-290, and 12VAC5-630-300; one 18-month renewal is available.)

    “Any person intending to construct a private well shall apply to the Department for and receive a permit before proceeding with construction.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    State statutory authority for specified Virginia counties to require property owners whose property may or can be served to connect to county water and sewage systems.

    • This is enabling authority, not a universal statewide connection mandate.
    • In Amelia, Botetourt, Campbell, Cumberland, Franklin, Halifax, and Nelson Counties, persons with an adequate domestic potable-water supply and sewage-disposal system are not required to discontinue using them, although the county may charge the listed fees and nonuser service charge.
    • For Bland, Goochland, Powhatan, Rockingham, Smyth, and Wythe Counties, the statute conditions mandatory connection on the absence of a then-existing correctable or replaceable adequate potable-water supply and adequate sewage-disposal system; connection fees may not be charged until connection is required.
    • For Buckingham County, the statute similarly conditions mandatory connection on the absence of a then-existing or correctable adequate potable-water supply and sewage-disposal system; a connection fee may not be charged until connection is required.
    “Amelia, Botetourt, Campbell, Cumberland, Franklin, Halifax, and Nelson Counties may require connection to their water and sewage systems”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Farm buildings and structures under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

    • A farm building or structure is not used for residential purposes, is located on property where farming operations take place, and is used primarily for a listed farm use.
    • The exemption does not apply to a building or portion of a building on a farm that is operated as a restaurant and licensed by the Board of Health under Chapter 2 (§ 35.1-11 et seq.) of Title 35.1.
    • Farm buildings and structures in a flood plain or mudslide-prone area remain subject to applicable flood-proofing or mudslide regulations.
    • A qualifying agritourism farm building or structure where the public is invited to enter and which is used for display, sampling, or sale described in § 36-99 must have portable fire extinguishers, a simple written emergency plan, and the required exemption sign.
    “Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, farm buildings and structures shall be exempt from the provisions of the Building Code, except for a building or a portion of a building located on a farm that is operated as a restaurant as defined in § 35.1-1 and licensed as such by the Board of Health pursuant to Chapter 2 (§ 35.1-11 et seq.) of Title 35.1.”
  • Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionConditional

    Building permit exemption for small one-story detached accessory structures under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code

    • The structure must be one story and detached, used as a tool or storage shed, playhouse, or similar use.
    • The structure must not be classified as a group F-1 or H occupancy.
    • The exemption is from the building permit only. Local zoning, setback and lot coverage rules still apply.
    • The exemption is one item in a list of exemptions in 13VAC5-63-80. This claim does not rely on the list's separate historic-district exception for replacement siding, roofing and windows.

    maximum building area: <= 256 square feet (not group F-1 or H occupancy)

    “one story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided the building area does not exceed 256 square feet (23.78 m 2) and the structures are not classified as a group f-1 or h occupancy.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land and its development in every Virginia locality.

    • The governing body of every locality must adopt the ordinance; the resulting subdivision controls are administered through the applicable locality's ordinance.
    “The governing body of every locality shall adopt an ordinance to assure the orderly subdivision of land and its development.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction or modification of entrances connecting to VDOT-maintained highways and activities in VDOT highway right-of-way.

    • The requirement applies to state-maintained highways and right-of-way under VDOT jurisdiction.
    • Entrance location and design must comply with VDOT access-management regulations and design standards.
    • Applications are typically obtained through the VDOT district or residency office serving the locality.
    • An existing entrance also requires a land-use permit when modified because of a change in land use, traffic volume, or type of traffic.
    “Anyone who plans to work or perform an activity on or crossing any right of way under the jurisdiction of the Department must first obtain a land use permit. These include activities such as installation of utilities, construction of private and commercial entrances, landscaping, the temporary use of the right-of-way, as well as numerous other types of activities.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Recreational vehicles and other camping units offered as campsites in Virginia campgrounds, including facilities with three or more campsites and travel-trailer camps; this claim does not establish a general residential right to occupy an RV outside the specified campground framework.

    • A campground includes land or facilities accommodating camping units for periods of overnight or longer and includes travel trailer camps.
    • A campground must be permitted by the Virginia Department of Health and is inspected annually by local health department staff.
    • Offering three or more campsites may require a campground permit, including short-term or online-advertised camping.
    • Temporary campground permits allow up to 14 days of temporary camping, consecutively or nonconsecutively, within a 60-day period.
    • Temporary campgrounds must provide at least one portable toilet per 75 campers, make sewage-tank pumping available when RVs are present, and provide an acceptable water source.
    • The statutory definition excludes property where an individual owner may choose to camp, provided the owner is not prohibited or encumbered by covenants, restrictions, or conditions from providing sanitary facilities within the owner's property lines.
    • Other exclusions include summer camps, migrant labor camps, parks for manufactured homes, construction camps, and storage areas for unoccupied camping units.

    minimum campsites for campground definition: >= 3 campsites (The individual-owner camping exception and other statutory exclusions apply.) · temporary campground permit duration: <= 14 days (In a 60-day period, consecutively or nonconsecutively.) · temporary campground permit period: 60 days · portable toilets: per 1 per 75 campers (Temporary campgrounds.)

    “"Campground" means any area, place, parcel, or tract of land, by whatever name called, on which three or more campsites are occupied or intended for occupancy, or facilities are established or maintained, wholly or in part, for the accommodation of camping units for periods of overnight or longer [...] "Camping unit" means any device or vehicular type structure for use as temporary living quarters or shelter during periods of recreation, vacation, leisure time, or travel, including any tent, tent trailer, travel trailer, camping trailer, pickup camper, or motor home.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Virginia counties adopting and administering zoning ordinances over unincorporated territory statewide.

    • The zoning power is exercised by county governing bodies through ordinance.
    • County zoning jurisdiction covers unincorporated territory; incorporated areas are under municipal jurisdiction.
    • The statute permits regulation of land uses, structures, dimensional standards, open spaces, and excavation or mining, including residential and flood-plain uses.
    “For the purpose of zoning, the governing body of a county shall have jurisdiction over all the unincorporated territory in the county, and the governing body of a municipality shall have jurisdiction over the incorporated area of the municipality.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Virginia counties administering and enforcing the Uniform Statewide Building Code and issuing building permits for construction, including residential construction, in county jurisdiction.

    • Virginia's building code is a Uniform Statewide Building Code adopted by the State Board; it supersedes county building codes and regulations.
    • The county's role is local administration and enforcement through a local building department, not independent adoption of a conflicting county building code.
    • A county without a building department or local board of Building Code appeals must enter an agreement with another county, municipality, agency, or approved state agency for enforcement and appeals.
    • A town with a population of less than 3,500 may elect to administer and enforce the Building Code; if it does not, the county administers and enforces the Code for that town.
    • Buildings may be inspected before completion and are not deemed compliant until approved by the inspecting authority; inspections under $2,500 construction cost may be waived at the inspecting authority's discretion.
    • Building permit and enforcement fees may be levied by the local governing body.
    • Farm buildings and structures are exempt from the Building Code except for a farm building or portion operated as a licensed restaurant; farm buildings in flood plains or mudslide-prone areas remain subject to applicable flood-proofing or mudslide regulations.

    small-town population threshold: < 3500 people (The town may elect to administer and enforce the Building Code; otherwise the county administers it for the town.) · inspection-waiver construction cost threshold: < 2500 USD (The inspecting authority may waive inspection at its discretion.)

    “Enforcement of the provisions of the Building Code for construction and rehabilitation shall be the responsibility of the local building department. [...] Whenever a county or a municipality does not have such a building department or board of Building Code appeals, the local governing body shall enter into an agreement with the local governing body of another county or municipality or with some other agency, or a state agency approved by the Department for such enforcement and appeals resulting therefrom.”

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Arlington County, Virginia

Is Arlington County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Arlington County scores 36/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: little seclusion — roughly 3,710,164 people within a 30-minute drive and higher long-term carry cost.

How much does land cost in Arlington County, Virginia?

Land in Arlington County runs about $150,000 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Arlington County?

Arlington County gets about 44.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.7% of years.

How remote is Arlington County?

A representative private-land location has about 3,710,164 people within a 30-minute drive and 12,778,540 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Arlington compares in Virginia

Compare side-by-side →See all 133 Virginia counties ranked →