Bolthole Index

Nottoway County, Virginia

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

72Index Score / 100
#28 of 133 in Virginia

Unincorporated Nottoway County, Virginia requires a building permit for a new dwelling, with zoning and Health Department approval required before issuance1. Nottoway County handles building permits and inspections; Blackstone, Burkeville and Crewe provide zoning approval inside their limits1. Septic and private-well permitting goes through the Virginia Department of Health’s Piedmont Health District, with the Nottoway County Health Department as the local contact2,3.

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

A new dwelling in unincorporated Nottoway County requires zoning and Health Department approval before the county issues a building permit.

A new dwelling in unincorporated Nottoway County requires zoning and Health Department approval before the county issues a building permit1. Nottoway County also requires county zoning approval and Health Department review for later additions, garages, decks, sheds and pools before issuing a building permit1. County zoning approval is not required for the listed renovation, electrical, gas, HVAC, generator, demolition, plumbing, asbestos-remediation or tank-removal permits; that exception does not waive building permits1.

Nottoway County enforces the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and handles required building inspections, including work in Blackstone, Burkeville and Crewe1,6. Every building permit requires a final inspection, and the county checklist includes final Health Department approval and a certificate of occupancy1. Qualifying farm buildings may be exempt from the Building Code; ask Building whether the proposed structure qualifies before treating a dwelling as exempt7.

Who issues building permits in Nottoway County?

The Nottoway County Building Department issues building permits and handles code enforcement and inspections at the County Administration office in Crewe.

The Nottoway County Building Department issues building permits and handles code enforcement and inspections at the County Administration office in Crewe8. The Nottoway County Planning Department handles county zoning questions and assists with land divisions and subdivisions at the same office9. Start with Planning to confirm the parcel’s zoning authority and district, then assemble the approvals required by Building1.

For a new dwelling in unincorporated Nottoway County, the published building-permit package includes an approved county zoning permit, an approved septic permit, a completed building-permit application and two sets of structural plans1. Inside Blackstone, Burkeville or Crewe, obtain the town's zoning approval and submit it to the county for the building permit; the county still handles building inspections, while septic permits remain with the Piedmont Health District and Nottoway County Health Department1,2,10,11. The county checklist lists a $30 county “Septic/Zoning Permit”; building-permit fees depend on project type and size1. Ask Building for the project total and the Health Department for its separate septic or well application fees1,2.

Does Nottoway County have zoning?

Yes, but the zoning authority depends on the parcel.

Yes, but the zoning authority depends on the parcel. Nottoway County administers zoning for unincorporated parcels; Blackstone administers its own zoning, Crewe administers its own zoning, and the county checklist requires Burkeville zoning approval inside that town1,10,11. Septic and private-well permitting remains with the Piedmont Health District; Blackstone also requires town approval for private wastewater disposal, and Crewe generally requires written town-manager permission for wastewater-disposal facilities2,12,13. In Nottoway County’s Agricultural and Conservation districts, minimum setbacks are 100 feet front, 50 feet side and 70 feet rear; Rural Residential requires 75 feet front, 15 feet side and 35 feet rear1. Confirm the mapped district with Planning before laying out the site9.

Nottoway County regulates subdivisions and land divisions, but we could not confirm the detailed lot-size, access, exemption or review rules; ask County Planning4. We also could not confirm county standards for long-term RV living, tiny-home occupancy, minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size or accessory dwellings. Ask Planning for a written interpretation tied to the parcel and proposed use9.

How do septic and well permits work in Nottoway County?

The Virginia Department of Health administers private-well and septic permitting for Nottoway County through the Piedmont Health District and Nottoway County Health Department.

The Virginia Department of Health administers private-well and septic permitting for Nottoway County through the Piedmont Health District and Nottoway County Health Department2. A new, modified, repaired or expanded onsite sewage system needs a septic permit, and a new dwelling served by onsite sewage needs that approval before the county issues its building permit1,2. Private-well construction also requires an application through the district or local health department2.

Septic and well applications require supporting work from a properly licensed private-sector consultant, subject to the Health Department's stated eligibility exceptions for repair-system evaluation and design services2. Soil suitability deserves early attention: about 51.3% of county soils are rated “not limited” for a conventional drain field, but that countywide rating cannot replace a parcel evaluation14. Replacing a home or expanding living space served by an existing septic system requires a Safe, Adequate, Proper review; exceeding the system’s designed bedroom capacity requires a construction permit to expand the system2.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Nottoway County?

We could not confirm a Nottoway County rule that generally authorizes long-term RV occupancy on private land or a county standard that generally authorizes tiny-home occupancy.

We could not confirm a Nottoway County rule that generally authorizes long-term RV occupancy on private land or a county standard that generally authorizes tiny-home occupancy. For unincorporated Nottoway County land, ask the Nottoway County Planning Department whether the proposed dwelling type and temporary occupancy are allowed in the parcel's district1. Inside Blackstone, Burkeville or Crewe, ask the town zoning office instead; septic questions still go to the Nottoway County Health Department1,2.

A small home is not automatically exempt from the normal approval sequence: a new dwelling in unincorporated Nottoway County requires zoning approval, a septic permit and a building permit1. Manufactured homes receive conditional protection under Virginia law in districts where site-built housing is allowed, but placement, conversion, age and local standards can still matter15. Get a parcel-specific answer in writing before buying an RV, tiny home or manufactured home for the site.

Building a home in Nottoway County: what are the steps?

Confirm whether county or town zoning controls the parcel, then ask that authority to identify the district and review the proposed use and setbacks.

  1. Confirm whether county or town zoning controls the parcel, then ask that authority to identify the district and review the proposed use and setbacks1.
  2. Arrange licensed private-sector consultant work for septic and well applications, or ask the Health Department whether you qualify for its repair-system evaluation/design services; apply through the Nottoway County Health Department2.
  3. Obtain zoning approval and assemble the completed building-permit application with two sets of structural plans and the approved septic permit1.
  4. Apply to the Nottoway County Building Department before covered work begins and pay the project-specific building-permit fee1,8.
  5. If the entrance touches VDOT right-of-way, obtain the required land-use permit for the private entrance16.
  6. Schedule county building inspections through County Administration, obtain final Health Department and building approval, and secure the certificate of occupancy before moving in1.

What should you check before buying land in Nottoway County?

Confirm jurisdiction first: a mailing address does not tell you whether Nottoway County or Blackstone, Burkeville or Crewe controls zoning for the parcel.

Confirm jurisdiction first: a mailing address does not tell you whether Nottoway County or Blackstone, Burkeville or Crewe controls zoning for the parcel1. Before treating a house site as buildable, ask Planning about setbacks and land division, and the Health Department about septic and well siting1,2,9. Nottoway County regulates subdivisions, but detailed review requirements should be confirmed with Planning4. A private entrance involving VDOT right-of-way requires a land-use permit16.

Order soil work early: about 51.3% of county soils rate “not limited” for a conventional septic drain field, but the proposed site still needs evaluation14. Check the flood map as well: the building official may require a permit even for otherwise exempt work in a special flood hazard area17. For budgeting context, the median property-tax bill is about $756 per year and the effective property-tax rate is about 0.4%, but verify the actual parcel assessment and tax status with the county14.

Watch-outs

  • Do not rely on a Nottoway mailing address to identify the zoning authority; Blackstone, Burkeville and Crewe issue their own zoning approvals, while the county still handles building permits and inspections and the Health Department handles septic permits1,2.
  • An owner-builder exemption can excuse qualifying contractor licensing, but it does not waive building, zoning, septic, inspection or occupancy approvals5.
  • Nottoway County closes a building permit after 6 months without an inspection; another building permit is then required to finish the project1.
  • Long-term RV occupancy and tiny-home rules need a parcel-specific answer from County Planning or the applicable town zoning office1.

Sources

17 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 12, 2026

  1. Building Permit Checklist
  2. Onsite Sewage & Water Program — Piedmont Health District
  3. Nottoway County Health Department (vdh.virginia.gov)
  4. Nottoway County Comprehensive Plan, 2023–2028
  5. § 54.1-1101. Exemptions; failure to obtain certificate of occupancy; penalties
  6. Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code
  7. Code of Virginia § 36-99. Provisions of Code; modifications (Virginia statewide rule)
  8. Nottoway County Building Department (nottoway.org)
  9. Nottoway County Planning Department (nottoway.org)
  10. Town of Blackstone: Planning & Zoning (Nottoway County)
  11. Town of Crewe: Crewe Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Article 15—Definitions (Nottoway County)
  12. Town of Blackstone: Sec. 62-198. Construction permit required (Nottoway County)
  13. Town of Crewe: Crewe Code of Ordinances § 74-140—Wastewater disposal (Nottoway County)
  14. 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
  15. § 15.2-2290. Uniform regulations for manufactured housing (Virginia statewide rule)
  16. Land use permits
  17. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit (Virginia statewide rule)

Written October 12, 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, Nottoway County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleNottoway CountyAmelia CountyLunenburg CountyPrince Edward CountyDinwiddie CountyBrunswick CountyPowhatan County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVDHVDHVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of Health

County locator

Nottoway County in Virginia

72
County map
Nottoway County highlighted among the Virginia counties · colored by Index score

How Nottoway County scores

72 / 100 · #28 of 133 in Virginia · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion49100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency78100% ev.
Admin Boringness3990% ev.
Durability72100% ev.
Property Autonomy66100% ev.
Carry Cost81100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$203kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$4,440Land / acre
45.7"Annual rain
0.1% of yrsSevere drought
7.5 / yr (+6.8)Mid-century 100°F days
13.7 daysMid-century dry spell
2.28" (+10.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.39×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,245Home insurance / yr
4.2% / yrInsurance growth
1.89%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
26,503People within 30 min
3,284,322People within 2 hr
28,356Radius comparison (15 mi)
49.5People / sq mi
0%Federal land
87%Land at 15% slope or less
51.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
100,726 acWorkable land screen
76.2%Wooded land
54.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
57.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Nottoway County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Answers from the rulebook for Nottoway County

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

Nottoway County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New dwellings and other listed construction requiring a building permit on county parcels.

    • Approved zoning and septic permits are required before issuance for new dwellings.
    • Zoning permits are not required on county parcels for renovation, electrical, gas, HVAC, generator, demolition, plumbing, asbestos remediation, or tank-removal permits.
    • Permit duration is generally 36 months, with manufactured homes limited to 18 months.

    county septic/zoning permit fee: 30 USD · permit validity: 6 months (An inspection extends the permit for another six months.)

    “Health Department approval is required prior to a Building Permit being issued. Later Additions, Garages, Decks, Sheds, Pools, etc. require Zoning Permits from the County and will be submitted to the Health Department for approval prior to receiving a Building Permit. Zoning Permits are not required on county parcels for Renovation, Electrical, Gas, HVAC, Generator, Demolition, Plumbing, Asbestos Remediation, or Tank Removal Permits.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New dwellings and covered construction projects on county parcels.
      “Items Needed for Building Permit: 2 Sets of structural plans to include but not limited to footing/foundation design, exterior wall design, electrical with lighting fixtures and receptacles ; HVAC design (HVAC design does not apply to manufactured or modular homes). These can be dropped off when you apply for the Zoning Permit. Approved Zoning Permit (County Administration Office) Approved Septic Permit (Nottoway County Health Department) Completed Building Permit Application”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building-permit work administered through the Nottoway County Building Inspector’s Office, including county parcels and the Towns of Blackstone, Burkeville, and Crewe.

    • The page lists required inspections including erosion and sediment, footer, projection, foundation, floor joist, manufactured-home block/anchor/strap, framing, veneer, manufactured-home marriage wall, rough electrical and plumbing, HVAC where applicable, permanent electric, insulation, final erosion and sediment, final health-department approval, final inspection, and certificate of occupancy.
    • HVAC inspection includes a third-party duct leak check if required.
    • The final inspection includes a third-party blower-door test if required.
    • Inspections are scheduled through the County Administration Office at 434-645-8696.
    • All permits require a final inspection; permits without inspections for six months are closed and another permit is required to finish the project.

    permit initial duration: 6 months · permit extension after inspection: 6 months · general permit maximum duration: 36 months (manufactured homes are limited to 18 months)

    “All permits require a Final Inspection. Permits that have not had inspections in six (6) months will be closed and another permit will be required to finish the project. Permits are generally limited to a total of 36 months, other than manufactured homes, which are limited to 18 months.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Building work inspected through the Nottoway County Building Inspector’s Office.
      “All permits require a Final Inspection. Permits that have not had inspections in six (6) months will be closed and another permit will be required to finish the project.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    County-administered permitted building projects where the checklist applies.

    • The certificate is listed among the required inspection and approval sequence.
    • The checklist also requires final health-department approval and a final inspection.
    “Final Erosion & Sediment (grading, seeding & mulching) Final Approval from the Health Department Final -including 3rd party blower door test, if required Certificate of Occupancy Inspections are scheduled through the County Administration Office (434-645-8696)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — County building-permit projects listed on the Building Permit Checklist.
      “Final Erosion & Sediment (grading, seeding & mulching) Final Approval from the Health Department Final -including 3rd party blower door test, if required Certificate of Occupancy Inspections are scheduled through the County Administration Office (434-645-8696)”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning for parcels outside the incorporated towns.

    • New dwelling construction on a county parcel requires a County zoning permit.
    • If the project is in Blackstone, Burkeville, or Crewe, the permit must instead be obtained from that locality and submitted to the county for building-permit purposes.
    “If your project is in the town limits of Blackstone, Burkeville or Crewe, you must obtain a Zoning Permit from that locality and submit the approval to the county to apply for a building permit. (This applies to ALL jobs that need a Building Permit.) New Dwelling Construction (stick built, modular, doublewide, or singlewide) on a county parcel requires a Zoning Permit from the County and Health Department approval.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Nottoway County, including unincorporated county parcels and the incorporated Towns of Blackstone, Burkeville, and Crewe.

    • The county administers zoning for county parcels.
    • Projects within Blackstone, Burkeville, or Crewe must obtain a zoning permit from the respective locality and submit its approval to the county for a building permit.
    • The aggregate conclusion reflects county and municipal zoning authorities; it does not imply that the county administers each town ordinance.
    “If your project is in the town limits of Blackstone, Burkeville or Crewe, you must obtain a Zoning Permit from that locality and submit the approval to the county to apply for a building permit. (This applies to ALL jobs that need a Building Permit.) New Dwelling Construction (stick built, modular, doublewide, or singlewide) on a county parcel requires a Zoning Permit from the County and Health Department approval.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of county-parcel zoning and incorporated-town zoning in Nottoway County; the county does not administer each incorporated locality's ordinance.
      “If your project is in the town limits of Blackstone, Burkeville or Crewe, you must obtain a Zoning Permit from that locality and submit the approval to the county to apply for a building permit. (This applies to ALL jobs that need a Building Permit.) New Dwelling Construction (stick built, modular, doublewide, or singlewide) on a county parcel requires a Zoning Permit from the County and Health Department approval.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — The county aggregate of zoning administered by Nottoway County for county parcels and by the incorporated towns of Blackstone, Burkeville, and Crewe within their town limits.
      “each of the three towns has its own zoning”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Agricultural District (A-1), unincorporated Nottoway County

    • Lot width of 200 feet and public road frontage of 200 feet required.
    • Maximum lot coverage 15 percent.
    • All lots must meet health department requirements for individual wastewater disposal, and drain fields must be on the lot served.
    • A-1 lots shall not be served by public or community water or sewer service.

    minimum lot area: >= 5 acres

    “minimum lot area. 1) all permitted uses except intensive livestock operations: five (5) acres.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    County zoning setback categories labeled Agricultural, Conservation, Urban Residential (Town Water & Sewer), and Rural Residential.

    • The source presents the following as zoning setbacks.

    Agricultural and Conservation front setback: 100 feet · Agricultural and Conservation side setback: 50 feet (Each side lot line.) · Agricultural and Conservation rear setback: 70 feet · Urban Residential front setback: 35 feet (Town Water & Sewer.) · Urban Residential side setback: 15 feet (Town Water & Sewer.) · Urban Residential rear setback: 25 feet (Town Water & Sewer.) · Rural Residential front setback: 75 feet · Rural Residential side setback: 15 feet · Rural Residential rear setback: 35 feet

    “Agricultural: Minimum setbacks 100 Feet from the front lot line 50 Feet to each side lot line 70 Feet to the rear lot line”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — County Agricultural, Conservation, Urban Residential, and Rural Residential zoning districts.
      “Agricultural: Minimum setbacks 100 Feet from the front lot line 50 Feet to each side lot line 70 Feet to the rear lot line | Conservation: Minimum setbacks 100 Feet from the front lot line 50 Feet to each side lot line 70 Feet to the rear lot line | Urban Residential (Town Water & Sewer) Minimum setbacks 35 Feet from the front lot line 15 Feet from the side lot lines 25 Feet from rear lot line | Rural Residential Minimum setbacks 75 Feet from the front lot line 15 Feet from the side lot lines 35 Feet from the rear lot line”
  • Living in an RVProhibited

    Recreational vehicles parked or stored on a residential lot in unincorporated Nottoway County

    • Applies to residential lots; the sec. 4-10-7 excerpt does not address non-residential lots.
    • Parking rule: in all residential districts, camping trailers, vacation trailers and recreational vehicles must be parked behind the front line of the main building or in a completely enclosed garage or carport.
    • Mobile home parks and campgrounds are separately defined uses, and this claim does not cover them.
    • The text does not address temporary or short-term exceptions.
    “no recreational or commercial vehicles as defined herein shall be used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes when parked or stored on a residential lot.”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage and private-well permitting for Nottoway County within the Piedmont Health District.

    • Applications require supporting work from a properly licensed private-sector consultant, subject to the stated VDH eligibility exceptions for repair-system evaluation and design services.
    • A professional engineer may be necessary for certain alternative designs, systems receiving greater than 1,000 gallons per day, and non-residential wastewater characterization.

    wastewater threshold: > 1000 gallons per day (Professional Engineer may be necessary for certain systems.)

    “Permitting of private wells and sewage disposal systems”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite sewage and private-well permitting serving Nottoway County through the Piedmont Health District.
      “Permitting of private wells and sewage disposal systems”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction or expansion of onsite sewage systems in Nottoway County.

    • Applications must include supporting work from a properly licensed DPOR consultant.
    • For a residence served by an existing onsite system, a Safe, Adequate, Proper review is required when replacing the home or expanding living space.
    • If proposed residential development exceeds the system’s designed bedroom capacity, a construction permit is necessary to expand the system.
    • Fees vary by application type and flow threshold.
    “Application for a Sewage Disposal System and/or Private Well Construction Permit”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Well permitRequired

    Private well construction in Nottoway County.

    • The Piedmont Health District program permits private wells.
    • A private-sector consultant's supporting work is required for the application.

    private well only application fee: 300 USD

    “Private well only, with or without OSE/PE documentation | $300”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and land-division regulation in Nottoway County.

    • The current subdivision ordinance PDF could not be opened from the county site during this run, so lot-size, exemption, access, and review details remain unresolved.
    “current zoning and subdivision ordinances”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    County zoning, septic, and building-permit fees.

    • The county states building-permit cost depends on the type and size of the project.
    • The county checklist states the septic/zoning permit from the county is $30.00.

    septic/zoning permit fee: 30 USD

    “The Septic/Zoning Permit from the County is $30.00. [...] Cost of permits depends upon the type and size of project you have planned.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — Nottoway County building permits.
      “Permits are generally limited to a total of 36 months, other than manufactured homes, which are limited to 18 months. Cost of permits depends upon the type and size of project you have planned.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building-permit applications and inspections.

    • Applicants need approved zoning, approved septic/Health Department documentation, structural plans, and a completed building-permit application.
    • Inspections are scheduled through County Administration at 434-645-8696.
    • All permits require final inspection.
    “Items Needed for Building Permit: 2 Sets of structural plans to include but not limited to footing/foundation design, exterior wall design, electrical with lighting fixtures and receptacles ; HVAC design (HVAC design does not apply to manufactured or modular homes). These can be dropped off when you apply for the Zoning Permit. Approved Zoning Permit (County Administration Office) Approved Septic Permit (Nottoway County Health Department) Completed Building Permit Application [...] Inspections are scheduled through the County Administration Office (434-645-8696)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County building-permit application process for new dwellings and listed additions and accessory construction.
      “Items Needed for Building Permit: 2 Sets of structural plans to include but not limited to footing/foundation design, exterior wall design, electrical with lighting fixtures and receptacles ; HVAC design (HVAC design does not apply to manufactured or modular homes). These can be dropped off when you apply for the Zoning Permit. Approved Zoning Permit (County Administration Office) Approved Septic Permit (Nottoway County Health Department) Completed Building Permit Application Inspections Required:”

Virginia rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    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.

    • 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.
    • The exemption from contractor licensing does not exempt the work from the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.
    • If the person is exempt under subdivision A 7 and conveys the property to a third-party purchaser, the person must obtain a certificate of occupancy before conveyance unless the purchaser acknowledges in writing that no certificate of occupancy has been issued and consents to acquire the property without one.
    • The exemption concerns Chapter 11 contractor licensing; applicable building permits and inspections remain governed by the Uniform Statewide Building Code.

    primary residences per 24-month period: <= 1 residence (residence must be owned by the person and for the person's own use)

    “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;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Contractor-licensing requirements for an owner performing or supervising work on the owner's primary residence in Virginia, including Nottoway County.
      “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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building construction, additions, maintenance, repairs, renovations, and changes of use in Virginia, including Nottoway County.
      “The Board of Housing and Community Development adopts and amends the USBC.”
  • 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.”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lot coverage requirements in the small lot residential zoning district that localities with a population of 50,000 or more must maintain

    • Applies only to localities with a population of 50,000 or more.
    • Does not apply to areas within a historic district established under § 15.2-2306.
    • The statute sets no numeric lot coverage cap. Lot coverage is otherwise set by each locality's zoning ordinance.
    “such zoning district classifications shall not impose minimum lot widths exceeding 30 feet or setback, lot coverage, or density requirements that would preclude construction of eligible dwellings on conforming lots.”
  • 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”
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    A dwelling of 400 square feet or less in floor area constructed under the Virginia Construction Code.

    • Appendix AQ may be used as an alternative to the Virginia Construction Code requirements for a dwelling of 400 square feet or less.
    • The USBC applies when constructing a new building, structure, or addition, and when maintaining, repairing, renovating, or changing the use of a building or structure.
    • USBC enforcement is the responsibility of the local government's building inspections department.
    • State law leaves zoning and site-specific residential-use regulation to localities: a locality may regulate, restrict, permit, or prohibit land, building, structure, and premises uses through zoning districts.

    maximum dwelling floor area for Appendix AQ alternative: <= 400 square feet (Appendix AQ may be used as an alternative to the requirements of the Virginia Construction Code.)

    “Appendix AQ may be used as an alternative [...] where a dwelling is 400 square feet [...] or less in floor area.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction or modification of a private or commercial entrance involving right-of-way under Virginia Department of Transportation jurisdiction, including applicable locations in Nottoway County.
      “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.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Work otherwise exempt from a Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code permit when located in a special flood hazard area.

    • The building official may require a permit for items that are otherwise exempt under the permit-application section when they are located in a special flood hazard area.
    • The rule does not establish that every floodplain development project is exempt from other local floodplain, building, zoning, or federal requirements.
    “Application for a permit may be required by the building official for any items exempted in this section that are located in a special flood hazard area.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Nottoway County zoning districts and district schedule.
  • Building height — Building-height limits in Nottoway County.

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 Nottoway County, Virginia

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

Nottoway County scores 72/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 45.7″/yr rainfall plus 76.2% wooded land. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

How much does land cost in Nottoway County, Virginia?

Land in Nottoway County runs about $4,440 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Nottoway County?

Nottoway County gets about 45.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 0.1% of years.

How remote is Nottoway County?

A representative private-land location has about 26,503 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,284,322 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 Nottoway compares in Virginia

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