Bolthole Index

Henrico County, Virginia

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Henrico County, Virginia

46Index Score / 100
#95 of 133 in Virginia

Henrico County, Virginia requires a building permit for construction or demolition of a building or structure1. County zoning applies countywide, so what you can build and where depends on the parcel's zoning district23. Septic permits go through the Virginia Department of Health's Henrico Health Department, and a new-home building permit will be denied until the onsite sewage permit is approved and issued45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for construction, demolition and listed regulated work1
Zoning
County zoning applies countywide; rules vary by district and overlay23
Septic permit
Virginia Department of Health (Henrico Health Department), not the county4
RV living
Prohibited on residential lots, except the rule excludes the RTH district6
Owner-builder exemption
Available for one primary residence owned for your own use per 24 months7
Certificate of occupancy
A new certificate is required for qualifying changes of occupancy8
Building code
2021 Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, effective Jan. 18, 20249
Manufactured homes
Permitted in agricultural-type zoning districts; conditions apply elsewhere10

Who to call

Building permits

Henrico County Permit Center (Department of Building Construction and Inspections)

Building permits for construction, demolition, additions and most alterations in Henrico County; the Department of Building Construction and Inspections is reachable directly at (804) 501-4360

(804) 501-7280

[email protected]

4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228

Planning & zoning

Henrico County Planning Department

Zoning ordinance administration, rezoning, variances, conditional use permits, and zoning confirmation letters for specific parcels in unincorporated Henrico County

(804) 501-4602

[email protected]

4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228

Septic permits

Henrico Health Department Environmental Health (Virginia Department of Health)

Onsite sewage disposal (septic) construction and repair permits, and private well permits, for Henrico County

804-205-3500

8600 Dixon Powers Dr., Henrico, VA 23228

Floodplain permits

Henrico County Department of Public Works, Floodplain Management

Floodplain permits and development review for Henrico's mapped flood-prone areas

(804) 501-4393

4305 E. Parham Rd., Henrico, VA 23228

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 29, 2026.

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

Yes. Henrico County requires a permit for construction or demolition of a building or structure and for listed regulated installations, although the county's published list is not comprehensive1. Typical home projects that need a permit include detached sheds over 256 square feet and swimming pools over 150 square feet and deeper than 24 inches11. Work is governed by the 2021 Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, effective January 18, 2024 statewide, which the county's building department enforces locally912. A change-of-occupancy permit and new certificate of occupancy are required when the new use needs greater structural strength, fire protection, means of egress, ventilation or sanitation8. Farm buildings not used for residential purposes and located where farming operations take place are exempt from the Building Code, with exceptions for licensed restaurants and flood-prone or mudslide-prone sites13.

Who is the Henrico County building department, and how do you reach them?

The Henrico County Permit Center is the public-facing office for building, electrical, mechanical and plumbing permits, at 4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228, phone (804) 501-7280, email [email protected]11. It operates under the Department of Building Construction and Inspections, which can also be reached directly at (804) 501-4360 for questions on what a specific project requires11. Applications can be submitted by mail, and a jurisdiction cannot require an applicant to appear in person if it offers other processing options14. An unpursued application is considered abandoned six months after filing unless the building official grants an extension14. Permit fees are set locally by the Board of Supervisors under a fee schedule that can be based on square footage, cubic footage or estimated construction cost, plus a 2% code-academy levy in most localities15; call the Permit Center for Henrico's current fee schedule before budgeting a project.

Does Henrico County have zoning?

Yes. Henrico County administers zoning countywide, with rules that vary by zoning district and overlay district216. The county's zoning-district page is only a summary, so use the parcel's district and Chapter 24 of the Henrico County Code for the controlling rules3. The Board of Supervisors amended the county's Subdivision and Zoning Ordinances on July 28, 2026 to implement the HenricoNEXT 2045 Comprehensive Plan17. Zoning controls what you can build and how land may be used, including manufactured homes: Virginia law requires manufactured housing to be permitted in agricultural or similarly classified districts where site-built housing is allowed, while other districts impose additional conditions10. Henrico County's numeric minimum dwelling size and general tiny-home occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask the Planning Department to check the exact parcel and proposed design before buying.

How do septic permits work in Henrico County?

Septic permits in Henrico County go through the Henrico Health Department, a local office of the Virginia Department of Health, at 8600 Dixon Powers Dr., Henrico, VA 23228, contact center 804-205-3500418. A construction permit authorizes installation of a specific onsite sewage system design, expires 18 months after issuance and does not transfer to a later owner5. Every application must include an OSE or PE design5. For a new single-family home, secure the onsite sewage permit first because Henrico will deny the building permit until the sewage permit is approved and issued5. Only 14.8% of Henrico County soils rate free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so test the site before buying and budget for the design the evaluation supports19. Henrico-specific septic inspection requirements could not be confirmed; ask Environmental Health what inspections the approved design will require.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Henrico County?

Henrico County prohibits occupying an RV or travel trailer for living or business purposes on a residential lot in any district used for residential purposes, except the RTH district6. On those residential lots, no more than two RVs, boat trailers, travel trailers or utility trailers may be stored, and an RV or travel trailer may not be connected to utilities, the ground or another structure in a way that prevents ready removal6. Tiny homes are not the same legal category as RVs, and Henrico County's general tiny-home occupancy rules and minimum dwelling size could not be confirmed; ask the Planning Department whether the proposed unit qualifies as a dwelling and what the parcel's district allows. Manufactured homes are separately regulated: Virginia law requires them to be allowed in agricultural-type districts where site-built housing is allowed and imposes additional conditions in other residential districts10.

Building a home in Henrico County: the steps, in order

  1. Confirm the parcel's zoning district and allowed use with the Henrico County Planning Department317.
  2. If the site needs septic, submit the required OSE or PE design and obtain the onsite sewage construction permit through the Henrico Health Department before seeking the home building permit5.
  3. Check whether the work is in or adjacent to a Special Flood Hazard Area; Henrico requires a Floodplain Development Permit for development there20.
  4. Resolve access: obtain the Construction Engineer's permission letter before cutting a County curb, or a VDOT land-use permit for an entrance on VDOT right-of-way2122.
  5. Apply for the building permit at the Henrico County Permit Center before covered work begins114.
  6. Complete the inspections required for the approved project and obtain the certificate of occupancy required for the home before moving in23.

What to check before you buy land in Henrico County

Confirm the parcel's zoning district and permitted use before closing because Henrico's rules vary by district and overlay23. If the parcel is not on public sewer, test the soil early: only 14.8% of Henrico County soils rate free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, and the approved system needs an OSE or PE design195. Check flood mapping before planning the house or driveway because all development in and adjacent to a Special Flood Hazard Area requires a Henrico Floodplain Development Permit, and new roads, driveways and parking areas there may not be designed to be overtopped by more than six inches during the 100-year flood2024. For access, get written permission from the Construction Engineer before cutting a County curb; an entrance connecting to VDOT right-of-way instead requires a VDOT land-use permit2522.

Watch-outs

  • An owner-builder may use Virginia's contractor-licensing exemption for no more than one primary residence owned for personal use during any 24-month period, but the building permit still applies71.
  • Driveway authority depends on the access point: a County-curb cut needs the Construction Engineer's permission, while work in VDOT right-of-way needs a VDOT land-use permit2122.
  • Henrico County prohibits living in an RV or travel trailer on residential lots covered by its rule; do not treat permission to store one as permission to occupy it6.

Sources

  1. When a Building Permit is Required, quoted and re-checked
  2. Zoning Districts and Uses, quoted and re-checked
  3. Zoning Districts and Uses, quoted and re-checked
  4. Virginia Department of Health Division of Onsite Water and Wastewater Services (2026 county census)
  5. Sewage Disposal and/or Water Supply Permit, quoted and re-checked
  6. Community Maintenance, quoted and re-checked
  7. Code of Virginia § 54.1-1101, quoted and re-checked
  8. When a Building Permit is Required, quoted and re-checked
  9. Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. § 15.2-2290. Uniform regulations for manufactured housing (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Henrico County Permit Center (Department of Building Construction and Inspections) (henrico.gov)
  12. § 36-98. Board to promulgate Statewide Code; other codes and regulations superseded; exceptions (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Code of Virginia § 36-99. Provisions of Code; modifications (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. 13VAC5-63-70. Section 107 Fees (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Zoning Districts and Uses, quoted and re-checked
  17. Henrico County Planning Department (henrico.gov)
  18. Henrico Health Department Environmental Health (Virginia Department of Health) (henrico.gov)
  19. Share of soils without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field (USDA SSURGO): Bolthole Index county data
  20. Floodplain Permits, quoted and re-checked
  21. Construction, quoted and re-checked
  22. Land use permits (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. 13VAC5-63-160. Section 116 Certificates of occupancy (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  24. Code of Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  25. Construction, quoted and re-checked

Written September 29, 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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County locator

Henrico County in Virginia

46
County map
Henrico County highlighted among the Virginia counties · colored by Index score

How Henrico County scores

Seclusion14100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency65100% ev.
Admin Boringness43100% ev.
Durability82100% ev.
Property Autonomy66100% ev.
Carry Cost66100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$406kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$7,750Land / acre
46.5"Annual rain
1.2% of yrsSevere drought
7.7 / yr (+7.1)Mid-century 100°F days
14.5 daysMid-century dry spell
2.56" (+7.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.44×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,222Home insurance / yr
2.2% / yrInsurance growth
1.88%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
1,002,632People within 30 min
9,225,273People within 2 hr
737,846Radius comparison (15 mi)
1,432.6People / sq mi
1.4%Federal land
95.7%Land at 15% slope or less
14.8%Septic soil without severe limits
18,947 acWorkable land screen
51.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.5°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Henrico County

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

Henrico County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction or demolition of buildings or structures and listed regulated installations in Henrico County.

    • The page also lists exceptions and permit-not-required improvements; the list is not comprehensive.
    • A change-of-occupancy permit is required when a new certificate of occupancy is required.
    • A new certificate of occupancy is required when the change requires a greater degree of structural strength, fire protection, means of egress, ventilation, or sanitation.
    “Construction or demolition of a building or structure.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Changes of occupancy requiring a new certificate of occupancy in Henrico County.

    • A new certificate is required when the change of occupancy requires a greater degree of structural strength, fire protection, means of egress, ventilation, or sanitation.
    “For change of occupancy, application for a permit shall be made when a new certificate of occupancy is required. A new certificate of occupancy is required when the change of occupancy requires a greater degree of structural strength, fire protection, means of egress, ventilation or sanitation.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Henrico County zoning ordinance.

    • Specific regulations vary by zoning district and overlay district.
    “The following is intended only as a summary of zoning districts and permitted uses as set forth in the Henrico County Zoning Ordinance.”
  • Local zoningPresent

    County-administered zoning in Henrico County.

    • Rules vary by county zoning district and overlay district.
    “ZONING DISTRICTS AND USES Chapter 24 of the Henrico County Code”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Henrico County zoning districts and permitted uses.

    • The county page is expressly a summary; specific regulations are in Chapter 24.
    “The following is intended only as a summary of zoning districts and permitted uses as set forth in the Henrico County Zoning Ordinance.”
  • Living in an RVProhibited

    Occupancy of an RV or travel trailer on a residential lot in any Henrico County district used for residential purposes, except the RTH district.

    • The rule applies to districts used for residential purposes, except RTH.
    • No more than two RVs, boat trailers, travel trailers, or utility trailers may be stored on any residential lot.
    • Boat, travel, cargo, or utility trailers must not be stored in the front yard, street-side yard, or any public right-of-way.
    • RVs must not be parked in the right-of-way.
    • Any RV or travel trailer on a residential lot must not be connected to utility service, the ground, or another structure in a manner preventing ready removal.

    maximum combined number of RVs, boat trailers, travel trailers, or utility trailers stored on a residential lot: <= 2 vehicles

    “In any district used for residential purposes, except RTH, a limited combination of trailer types and quantities may be parked or stored on the same lot with the principal use, provided it shall not be occupied for living or business purposes. [...] Any RV or travel trailer on a residential lot must not be occupied and must not be connected to any utility service, the ground, or other structure in any manner that would prevent its ready removal.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of an onsite sewage disposal system and construction of a new single-family dwelling in Henrico County, Virginia.

    • An onsite sewage construction permit authorizes installation only for a specific design and location.
    • The construction permit expires 18 months after issuance.
    • The construction permit is not transferable to subsequent owners.
    • For a new single-family dwelling, the onsite sewage disposal permit should be approved before applying for the building permit; building permit applications received before the onsite sewage disposal permit has been issued will be denied until it has been approved and issued.
    • All applications must be supported by an OSE/PE design.
    • The page states fees effective July 1, 2019. The listed application fees include: certification letter <=1000 gpd with OSE/PE design $370; certification letter >1000 gpd with OSE/PE design $1450; construction permit <=1000 gpd with OSE/PE design $275; construction permit >1000 gpd with OSE/PE design $1450; repair permit <=1000 gpd with OSE/PE design $275; repair permit >1000 gpd with OSE/PE design $1450; voluntary upgrade <=1000 gpd with OSE/PE design $275; voluntary upgrade >1000 gpd with OSE/PE design $1450; minor modification $150; and safe, adequate, proper evaluation $100.
    • Beginning July 1, 2019, applicants seeking evaluation and design services from VDH must submit a petition for VDH services and meet means testing criteria or the VDH Hardship Guidelines.
    • In some cases, the VDH-services application fee may be waived if the household meets federal poverty guidelines.
    • Generally, VDH services are available only to Henrico County citizens requesting services for their primary place of residence.
    • The page separately lists VDH-provided service fees of $475 for an onsite sewage construction permit <=1000 gpd, $475 for a conventional-only repair permit, $150 for a minor modification, and $150 for a safe, adequate, and proper evaluation.

    construction permit expiration: 18 months after issuance · construction permit fee <=1000 gpd with OSE/PE design: 275 USD · construction permit fee >1000 gpd with OSE/PE design: 1450 USD · VDH-provided construction permit fee <=1000 gpd: 475 USD

    “A construction permit authorizes the installation of an Onsite Sewage Disposal System of a specific design and location, expires 18 months after issuance, and is not transferable to subsequent owner(s). If the applicant plans to build a new single family dwelling it is preferable to have the Onsite Sewage Disposal Permit approved before applying for the building permit. Building permits received for review before the Onsite Sewage Disposal Permit has been issued will be denied until the Onsite Sewage Disposal Permit has been approved and issued.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Adding a driveway to property when the work requires cutting a Henrico County curb.

    • A permission letter from the Construction Engineer must be obtained before making cuts in a County curb.
    • The official page directs applicants to call Joe Madison at (804) 727-8238.
    • The page does not establish that this county process governs driveways connecting to every road, including roads maintained by VDOT.
    “How do I add a driveway to my property? A letter from the Construction Engineer, giving permission to make cuts in County curb must be obtained by calling Joe Madison (804) 727-8238.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — New roads, driveways, and parking areas located in Henrico County's Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
      “New roads, driveways, and parking areas located in the SFHA must be designed and constructed so that they will not be overtopped by more than six inches of water during the 100-year flood.”
    • Required — Driveway installations requiring cuts in a County curb.
      “How do I add a driveway to my property? A letter from the Construction Engineer, giving permission to make cuts in County curb must be obtained by calling Joe Madison (804) 727-8238.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in or adjacent to a Special Flood Hazard Area.

    • All development in the SFHA must be permitted.
    • Some development adjacent to the SFHA is also regulated.
    • Minor qualifying activities may use a General Permit; all other development requires an Individual Floodplain Development Permit.
    • Other Planning, Building Inspections, Public Works, or agency permits may also apply.
    “A Floodplain Development Permit is required for all development in and adjacent to the SFHA, as outlined in Chapter 10, Article 1 of the Henrico County Code.”

Virginia rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Virginia contractor-licensing exemption for owner-builders, including Henrico County.

    • The exemption is limited to no more than one primary residence owned by and for the person's own use during any 24-month period.

    primary residences: <= 1 residence per 24 months

    “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;”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction of new buildings, structures, and additions; maintenance, repair, renovation, and changes in use of existing buildings and structures throughout Virginia.

    • The Board of Housing and Community Development adopts and amends the USBC.
    • Enforcement is the responsibility of the local government's building inspections department.
    • The Uniform Statewide Building Code does not supersede other state-agency regulations governing building-related activities not covered by the USBC, including public water supply systems, wastewater treatment and disposal systems, and solid waste facilities.
    • The Code does not supersede specified proffered conditions, special exceptions, special or conditional use permits, variances, clustering and open-space development conditions, airport or highway overlay-district requirements, historic-district requirements, or local floodplain regulations adopted for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.

    current adopted code edition: 2021 Uniform Statewide Building Code · effective date: 2024-01-18 · adopted referenced electrical code: 2020 National Electrical Code

    “The effective date of the 2021 Uniform Statewide Building Code, 2021 Statewide Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Industrialized Building Safety Regulations and the 2021 Amusement Device Regulations is Jan. 18, 2024.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction or permits subject to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, with inspections administered by the applicable local building official or approved inspection agency.

    • The building official must conduct the listed minimum inspections when applicable to the construction or permit.
    • The minimum inspections include footings, foundations, preparatory concrete work, structural members and fasteners before concealment, electrical/mechanical/plumbing systems before concealment, energy-conservation materials before concealment, and final inspection.
    • Where construction cost is less than $2,500, an inspection may be waived at the inspecting authority's discretion.
    • The permit holder must provide ladders, scaffolding, or test equipment necessary for a requested inspection and must notify the building official when an inspection stage is reached.
    • Approved third-party inspection reports may be accepted under the building official's written policy.
    • A final inspection is required upon completion of construction for which a permit was issued.

    construction cost threshold for discretionary inspection waiver: < 2500 USD (inspection may be waived at the discretion of the inspecting authority)

    “The following minimum inspections shall be conducted by the building official when applicable to the construction or permit:”
  • 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”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Residential dwelling use as a short-term rental in Virginia.

    • Existing local authority to regulate short-term rentals through general land-use and zoning authority is preserved.
    • A locality may adopt a registration ordinance, and a registration ordinance may impose a penalty up to $500 per violation for an operator required to register.
    • A locality may limit a lessee or sublessee to one short-term rental within the locality.
    • For a residential dwelling also legally occupied by the property owner as the primary residence, a local ordinance enacted after December 31, 2023, or a later amendment, may not require a special exception, special use, or conditional use permit for short-term rental use.
    • Private contracts, condominium instruments, common-interest-community declarations, cooperative instruments, and property-owners-association declarations are not superseded.

    registration penalty: <= 500 USD per violation (Only where a locality adopts a registry ordinance and the operator is required to register.) · owner-occupied primary residence special-use permit prohibition date: > 2023-12-31 (Applies to local ordinances enacted after this date or subsequent amendments.)

    “Except as provided in this section, nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit, limit, or otherwise supersede existing local authority to regulate the short-term rental of property through general land use and zoning authority.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code permit fees administered through local building departments statewide.

    • The local governing body establishes the fee schedule.
    • Unit rates may be based on square footage, cubic footage, estimated cost of construction, or other appropriate criteria.
    • A permit or amendment generally may not be issued until designated fees are paid, but the building official may authorize delayed payment.
    • A local building department collects a 2.0% code-academy levy on permit fees, subject to the stated statutory exception for localities with qualifying individual or regional training academies.

    code academy levy: 2 percent (Localities that maintain individual or regional training academies accredited by DHCD may retain the levy.)

    “The local governing body shall establish a fee schedule incorporating unit rates, which may be based on square footage, cubic footage, estimated cost of construction, or other appropriate criteria.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Construction, demolition, regulated installations, and related permit applications under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

    • A permit application must be made to the building official and a permit obtained before covered work begins.
    • Emergency construction, alterations, or equipment replacement applications are due by the end of the first working day after work begins.
    • The building official may authorize work to begin while an application or permit is pending.
    • Applications may be submitted by mail and processed by mail unless the jurisdiction offers online processing or the applicant voluntarily chooses otherwise; an applicant may not be required to appear in person.
    • The application form is supplied by the local building department and must include a general description and location of the proposed work and other information required by the building official.
    • An application is abandoned six months after filing unless pursued in good faith or a permit is issued; the building official may grant extensions for justifiable cause.
    “Application for a permit shall be made to the building official and a permit shall be obtained prior to the commencement of any of the following activities, except that applications for emergency construction, alterations, or equipment replacement shall be submitted by the end of the first working day that follows the day such work commences.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Temporary camping in a Virginia campground regulated under 12VAC5-450.

    • Campground construction, renovation, or addition requires plan submission and written approval by the Health Commissioner before construction begins, except that temporary campground owners or operators submit the plans as part of the permit application and do not need separate written plan approval.
    • A valid campground permit is required before operation.
    • Local plumbing, building, electrical, and zoning ordinances also apply.
    • Temporary permits are limited to temporary camping of 14 days duration or less; a temporary permit may be valid for 60 days or less, but total operation may not exceed 14 days during any 60-day period.

    temporary camping permit duration: <= 14 days (temporary permit may be valid for 60 days or less, but total days of operation may not exceed 14 days during any 60-day period) · campsite minimum area: >= 1600 square feet · campsite minimum narrowest width: >= 25 feet

    “to allow temporary camping of 14 days duration or less.”
  • 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.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Henrico County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in Henrico County.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping in Henrico County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy in Henrico County.
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling units in Henrico County.
3 more unanswered
  • Off-grid sanitation
  • Well permit
  • Mandatory utility hookup

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.

Water rights & wells in Henrico County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Virginia’s water agency.

Over-appropriated / declining

The aquifer here is over-appropriated and declining. A domestic well is usually still permit-exempt, but long-term supply is a genuine risk.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Household wells are exempt from the groundwater withdrawal permit even inside a Groundwater Management Area, but a private well in a GWMA must be registered with DEQ within 30 days (Va. Code 62.1-258); a permit is triggered only at 300,000 gal/month.

Limit: < 300,000 gal/month (no withdrawal permit)

Virginia DEQ — Ground Water Withdrawal Permitting ↗
  • Eastern Virginia Groundwater Management Areapartial of county

    DEQ has imposed mandatory withdrawal reductions on large Coastal Plain permittees because permitted demand exceeds sustainable aquifer yield (declining heads, land subsidence, saltwater-intrusion risk). Household wells (<300,000 gal/mo) are exempt but must be registered. The I-95-west counties (Fairfax, Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Caroline) are included only east of I-95.

    Virginia DEQ / 9VAC25-600-20 ↗

Regulated-riparian state (large uses permitted). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Virginia state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Henrico County, Virginia

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

Henrico County scores 46/100 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 1,002,632 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Henrico County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Virginia Department of Health (Henrico Health District). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Henrico County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Henrico County is prohibited: Occupancy of an RV or travel trailer on a residential lot in any Henrico County district used for residential purposes, except the RTH district. The rule applies to districts used for residential purposes, except RTH. No more than two RVs, boat trailers, travel trailers, or utility trailers may be stored on any residential lot. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Henrico County, Virginia?

Land in Henrico County runs about $7,750 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Henrico County?

Henrico County gets about 46.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.2% of years. On water rights, Henrico County lies in the Eastern Virginia Groundwater Management Area — DEQ has imposed mandatory withdrawal reductions on large Coastal Plain permittees because permitted demand exceeds sustainable aquifer yield (declining heads, land subsidence, saltwater-intrusion risk). Household wells (<300,000 gal/mo) are exempt but must be registered. The I-95-west counties (Fairfax, Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Caroline) are included only east of I-95..

How remote is Henrico County?

A representative private-land location has about 1,002,632 people within a 30-minute drive and 9,225,273 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.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Henrico County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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How Henrico compares in Virginia

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