Published 2026-08-22 · Last reviewed 2026-08-22 · Virginia Roofing Services editorial team
One code, many permit offices
Virginia construction is governed by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, maintained through the Department of Housing and Community Development. Local governments - counties, independent cities and some incorporated towns - enforce it and issue permits.
That is why the rules are consistent statewide but the process, fees and turnaround differ between, say, the City of Fredericksburg and Stafford County.
Independent cities are their own permit authority
Virginia has a large number of independent cities that are not part of any county. A property in Fredericksburg, Richmond, Alexandria, Roanoke, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg or Winchester is permitted by that city, not by the surrounding county.
Who pulls the permit
The contractor normally obtains the permit. If a contractor asks you to pull an owner permit for work they are performing, ask why - it can shift responsibility onto you.
Historic districts and HOAs add a separate step
Architectural review in historic districts and covenant approval in HOA communities are separate from the building permit and often take longer. Confirm both before materials are ordered.