Bolthole Index

Accomack County, Virginia

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

70Index Score / 100
#34 of 133 in Virginia

Accomack County, Virginia requires a building permit for construction, repair, relocation, removal or demolition, with limited exemptions and separate permits for electrical, plumbing and mechanical work12. County zoning controls land use in unincorporated Accomack County, while incorporated towns, Captain's Cove and Trail's End handle their own approvals first34. Septic and private-well permits for every address, town or not, go through the Virginia Department of Health's Eastern Shore Health District56.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for covered construction; separate trade permits apply12
Zoning
Yes; every parcel is assigned a zoning district, with incorporated-town approvals handled separately where applicable37
Septic permit
A state permit is required through the Virginia Department of Health's Eastern Shore Health District8910
Agricultural lots
A house permitted by right in an Agricultural District needs at least 5 acres11
Manufactured homes
Not allowed by right in the Residential District; a special-use permit is required12
RV living
No countywide private-parcel occupancy rule was confirmed; ask Building and Zoning before relying on an RV13
Owner-builder
A limited contractor-licensing exemption applies to an owner building one primary residence for personal use, but permits and code still apply14
Farm structures
A qualifying active farm may claim a farm-structure exemption by affidavit, but floodplain and other rules still apply15
Well
A Virginia Department of Health permit is required before a private well is built, altered or abandoned6

Who to call

Building permits

Accomack County Building, Planning & Economic Development

Building permits and inspections, with planning and zoning available through the same department

757-787-5721

building@accomack.gov

23296 Courthouse Ave. Suite 105 Accomac, VA 23301

Septic permits

Virginia Department of Health, Eastern Shore Health District — Accomack County Health Department

Local contact for state-administered onsite sewage and private-well applications in Accomack County

(757) 787-5880

23191 Front Street P.O. Box 177 Accomac, VA 23301-0177

Floodplain permits

Accomack County Floodplain Administration

Flood-map determinations for properties in unincorporated Accomack County

757-787-5797

23282 Courthouse Avenue in Accomac

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

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

Yes. Accomack County requires a building permit for construction, repair, relocation, removal or demolition of a building or structure, and electrical, plumbing and mechanical work each requires its own trade permit1. The county lists limited exemptions from the permit application and related inspections, but exempt work remains subject to applicable code requirements; if an owner requests a permit for exempt work, the permit and inspections become required2. Work cannot legally begin until the permit has been obtained and is on the job site1. A qualifying farm structure for an active crop or livestock-for-sale operation may receive an exemption after the applicant signs an affidavit, but floodplain and other regulations still apply15.

Who handles Accomack County building permits, and how do you reach the office?

Accomack County Building, Planning & Economic Development handles building and zoning questions from 23296 Courthouse Ave., Suite 105, Accomac, VA 23301; call 757-787-5721 for Building or email building@accomack.gov13. Planning is available through the same department at 757-824-5223 or planning@accomack.gov13. Most applications pass through Environmental, Zoning, Health, the Treasurer's Office and the Building Department; applicants generally need not act during review unless contacted for more information16. Applicants in Captain's Cove, Trail's End or an incorporated town should first obtain approval from that entity16. Building-permit prices depend on construction cost, and electrical, plumbing and mechanical work requires separate trade permits17.

Does Accomack County have zoning?

Yes. Accomack County's zoning ordinance governs land use in the unincorporated county, while incorporated towns may administer their own approvals3. The ordinance places land into districts such as Agricultural and Residential, each with its own permitted uses and regulations7. For a house permitted by right in an Agricultural District, the minimum lot size is 5 acres; the stated setbacks are 50 feet from the road right-of-way or front property line, 15 feet at the sides and 35 feet at the rear1118. An approved subdivision's plat or covenants may instead supply the frontage and setback standards used in zoning review19. In an Agricultural District, a principal structure may not exceed 35 feet; accessory structures have separate eave-height and property-line rules20.

How do septic permits work in Accomack County?

Virginia supervises and controls onsite sewage systems and alternative discharging sewage systems in Accomack County, while the Virginia Department of Health's Eastern Shore Health District handles local applications, inspections and permits8219. Start with the Accomack County Health Department at 23191 Front Street, P.O. Box 177, Accomac, VA 23301-0177, phone (757) 787-588022. A written state permit is required before constructing, operating, expanding or modifying a sewage disposal system, and the construction permit is issued after the health department finds a suitable location105. After installation, inspections and an installer completion statement are required before the health department issues an Operations Permit23. A private well also needs a Virginia Department of Health permit before construction, alteration or abandonment; a site evaluation is generally required and a licensed well driller must install it6. Site feasibility deserves attention: 0% of mapped county soils rate as free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so do not assume a standard system will work without an evaluation24. A professionally certified design follows a different inspection path, while other installations must be inspected and approved before any part is covered25.

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

In Accomack County's Agricultural and Residential districts, a travel trailer located outside a travel trailer park and occupied for habitation needs a special use permit from the Board of Zoning Appeals, and the use stays subject to the rest of the zoning chapter2627. We could not confirm a county rule for RVs in other districts, so ask Building and Zoning at 757-787-5721 which district the parcel is in before planning to live in one13. In flood-hazard areas, an RV must be on site fewer than 180 consecutive days, licensed and ready for highway use, or else meet all the requirements for manufactured homes28. Virginia regulates campgrounds, but that framework does not establish a general right to occupy an RV as a residence outside a campground29. We also could not confirm a county tiny-home rule or minimum dwelling size; a permanently built small house still faces zoning and building-permit review303. A manufactured home is not permitted by right in the Residential District and requires a Board of Zoning Appeals special-use permit there12. Confirm septic feasibility and sanitation approval separately with the Eastern Shore Health District before treating any mobile or small dwelling as habitable922.

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

  1. Call Planning at 757-824-5223 to confirm jurisdiction, identify the zoning district and check the parcel's setbacks; applicants in Captain's Cove, Trail's End or an incorporated town should seek that entity's approval first1316.
  2. Ask the Eastern Shore Health District at (757) 787-5880 for the required site evaluation and written septic construction permit before fixing the house location229.
  3. If the parcel may flood, request a county flood-map determination; a new building in a special flood hazard district needs a Flood Elevation Certificate before permit issuance3132.
  4. Submit the building application and separate trade-permit applications before work begins131.
  5. Notify the Building Department when each required inspection stage is reached, keep the permit card posted and do not conceal work before inspection33.
  6. Pass final building and trade inspections before the certificate of occupancy or completion is issued34.
  7. Obtain a VDOT land-use permit if the driveway connects to a VDOT-maintained highway35.

What should you check before buying land in Accomack County?

Check zoning first because Accomack County assigns every parcel to a district, and a recorded subdivision plat or covenant may control frontage and setbacks used in review3619. Check septic feasibility early because 0% of mapped soils rate as free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field24. Plan the water supply too, since a private well needs a health department permit6. Check flood status with Accomack County Floodplain Administration at 757-787-5797; the county provides map determinations for unincorporated parcels, while town properties go to the relevant town office31. Confirm road access because a new or modified entrance on a VDOT-maintained highway needs a state land-use permit35. Finally, budget around an effective property-tax rate of about 0.5% and a median annual bill near $962, while recent farmland value averages about $5,045 per acre373839.

Watch-outs

  • Accomack County's Agricultural District figures are not universal standards; confirm the parcel's district and any recorded subdivision plat before applying the 5-acre minimum, listed setbacks or 35-foot height cap111920.
  • A special flood hazard location can trigger permit review even for work otherwise listed as exempt, and new buildings there require a Flood Elevation Certificate before the permit is issued4032.
  • Living in an RV on a parcel in Accomack County's Agricultural or Residential district requires a Board of Zoning Appeals special use permit, and RVs in flood-hazard areas are limited to fewer than 180 consecutive days unless they meet manufactured-home requirements262728.
  • Virginia's owner-builder provision is only a contractor-licensing exemption for one owner-occupied primary residence in a 24-month period; it does not waive building permits, inspections or code compliance14.
  • The permit holder must request each required inspection; concealing work first can require removal of the covering material3433.

Sources

  1. accomack.gov, quoted and re-checked
  2. Permit Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  3. Things You Need to Know About Building in Accomack County, quoted and re-checked
  4. Things You Need to Know About Building in Accomack County, quoted and re-checked
  5. Environmental Health, quoted and re-checked
  6. vdh.virginia.gov, quoted and re-checked
  7. Rezoning, quoted and re-checked
  8. Onsite Sewage System Pump Out Reports, quoted and re-checked
  9. Virginia Department of Health - Onsite Sewage and Water Services (2026 county census)
  10. 12VAC5-610-240. Permits; general (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Things You Need to Know About Building in Accomack County, quoted and re-checked
  12. Things You Need to Know About Building in Accomack County, quoted and re-checked
  13. Accomack County Building, Planning & Economic Development (accomack.gov)
  14. § 54.1-1101. Exemptions; failure to obtain certificate of occupancy; penalties (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Things You Need to Know About Building in Accomack County, quoted and re-checked
  16. Things You Need to Know About Building in Accomack County, quoted and re-checked
  17. Example FAQs (for Training), quoted and re-checked
  18. Things You Need to Know About Building in Accomack County, quoted and re-checked
  19. Septic, Sewage, and Well Applications, quoted and re-checked
  20. Things You Need to Know About Building in Accomack County, quoted and re-checked
  21. § 32.1-164. Powers and duties of Board; regulations; fees; onsite soil evaluators; letters in lieu of permits; inspections; civil penalty (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. Virginia Department of Health, Eastern Shore Health District — Accomack County Health Department (vdh.virginia.gov)
  23. Combined Environmental Health Onsite Application Package, quoted and re-checked
  24. 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
  25. 12VAC5-610-320. Inspection and correction (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. Accomack County Code, § 106-53, quoted and re-checked
  27. Accomack County Code, § 106-78, quoted and re-checked
  28. Accomack County Code, § 106-367, quoted and re-checked
  29. Code of Virginia, Title 35.1 — Hotels, Restaurants, Summer Camps, and Campgrounds (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Accomack County - Permit Requirements (2026 county census)
  31. Accomack County Floodplain Administration (accomack.gov)
  32. Construction in Flood Hazard Zones, quoted and re-checked
  33. Permit Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  34. Required Minimum Inspections | Accomack County, VA, quoted and re-checked
  35. Land use permits (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  36. accomack.gov, quoted and re-checked
  37. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  38. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  39. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data
  40. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 10, 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, Accomack County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleAccomack CountyNorthampton CountyNorthumberland CountyMathews CountyLancaster CountyMiddlesex CountyGloucester County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVDHVA Dept. of Health

County locator

Accomack County in Virginia

70
County map
Accomack County highlighted among the Virginia counties · colored by Index score

How Accomack County scores

Seclusion68100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency64100% ev.
Admin Boringness3990% ev.
Durability56100% ev.
Property Autonomy66100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% 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 →

$252kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$5,045Land / acre
45.7"Annual rain
2.4% of yrsSevere drought
1 / yr (+1)Mid-century 100°F days
12.7 daysMid-century dry spell
2.33" (+5.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.34×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,495Home insurance / yr
-1.8% / yrInsurance growth
1.06%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
15,382People within 30 min
1,822,816People within 2 hr
18,910Radius comparison (15 mi)
74People / sq mi
10.7%Federal land
97.1%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
30.8%Wooded land
80.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Accomack 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.

Not yet researched: Town of Accomac · Town of Belle Haven · Town of Bloxom · Town of Chincoteague · Town of Hallwood · Town of Keller · Town of Melfa · Town of Onley · Town of Painter · Town of Parksley · Town of Saxis · Town of Tangier · Town of Wachapreague

Answers from the rulebook for Accomack County

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

Accomack County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, repair, movement, removal, or demolition of buildings or structures in Accomack County.

    • Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work requires a separate permit for each trade.
    • Work may not legally begin before the permit is obtained and on the work site.
    • Specific exemptions exist, including certain small sheds, tents, fences, ordinary repairs, and other listed items.
    • The building official may require permits for otherwise exempt items in historic districts or special flood hazard areas.
    “You need a building permit for all construction that involves the construction, repair, movement to another site, removal, or demolition of any building or structure. All electrical, plumbing and mechanical work needs a separate permit for each trade.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Building-permit applications and related inspections under Accomack County's adopted permit provisions.
      “application for a permit and any related inspections shall not be required for the following”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code enforcement by Accomack County in AE flood hazard zones.

    • The cited county page specifically describes AE flood hazard zones, except AE zones that are also Coastal A Zones.
    • The page also states that VAUSBC changes in January 2024 apply to VE and Coastal A Zones.
    “In accordance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, the following flood-resistant construction practices are strictly enforced by this Department in AE flood hazard zones (except AE zones that are also Coastal A Zones), regardless of the building's site elevation.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building-permit construction and structures subject to Accomack County's minimum inspection requirements.

    • The permit holder or representative must notify the building department when inspection stages are reached.
    • At least 24 hours' notice is required for inspection requests; inspections are performed within two working days.
    • Inspections will not be conducted unless the building permit card is posted conspicuously on site.
    • Failure to request an inspection may require removal of concealing materials and may lead to contractor sanctions.
    • Required stages include footings, foundation, exterior sheathing, framing and rough trades, energy-code compliance, and final building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical inspections.
    • Flood-zone structures require three flood elevation certificates.
    • Third-party testing may include flood certificates, duct blast testing, blower-door testing, and any testing deemed necessary by the Building Official.

    inspection notice: >= 24 hours · inspection performance: <= 2 working days

    “It shall be the responsibility of the permit holder or the permit holder's representative to notify the building department when the stages of construction requiring inspection are reached.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Building-related inspections associated with permits in Accomack County.
      “Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 108.1, application for a permit and any related inspections shall not be required for the following; however, this section shall not be construed to exempt such activities from other applicable requirements of this code. In addition, when an owner or an owner's agent requests that a permit be issued for any of the following, then a permit shall be issued, and any related inspections shall be required.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    New structures in AE flood hazard zones and other flood-hazard contexts administered by Accomack County.

    • An elevation certificate is required before commencing construction and again based on finished construction before issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • An interim elevation certificate may be required after foundation completion.
    • The cited requirement is specifically for flood-hazard construction, not a countywide statement for every occupancy.
    “All new structures are required to provide an elevation certificate prior to commencing construction, as well as based on finished construction prior to issuing a Certificate of Occupancy. In many instances, an interim elevation certificate is required after the foundation has been completed.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Completed buildings or structures for which Accomack County issues a Certificate of Occupancy.
      “Upon completion of the building or structure, prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Land use and development in Accomack County under the county zoning ordinance.

    • The ordinance distinguishes uses permitted by right from uses requiring Board of Zoning Appeals approval.
    “The Zoning Ordinance is the municipal statute that governs the way that land can be used in Accomack County. The ordinance addresses almost every type of functional use for a structure and the zoning districts in which that use is permitted. The two primary uses that are considered in zoning for most uses are:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use zoning under Accomack County's zoning ordinance.
      “The Zoning Ordinance is the municipal statute that governs the way that land can be used in Accomack County. The ordinance addresses almost every type of functional use for a structure and the zoning districts in which that use is permitted.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land-use regulation through Accomack County's zoning ordinance.

    • The ordinance places land into zoning districts, each with permitted uses and regulations.
    • Uses may be permitted by right or require a special use approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals.
    • The county page states that residents of incorporated towns should apply to the incorporated town for approval to build.
    “Accomack County's zoning ordinance places all land into a zoning district, such as Agricultural or Residential.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning in unincorporated Accomack County.
      “The Zoning Ordinance is the municipal statute that governs the way that land can be used in Accomack County. The ordinance addresses almost every type of functional use for a structure and the zoning districts in which that use is permitted.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Accomack County zoning districts and their permitted uses and regulations.

    • The county identifies Agricultural and Residential districts as examples.
    • Each district has its own permitted uses and regulations.
    • A rezoning application is available when a proposed use is not permitted by right.

    rezoning application fee: 980 USD

    “Each district has its own set of permitted uses and regulations.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — County zoning districts and their permitted uses in unincorporated Accomack County.
      “Accomack County's zoning ordinance places all land into a zoning district, such as Agricultural or Residential. Each district has its own set of permitted uses and regulations.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Houses in Accomack County Agricultural Districts.

    • The cited minimum is district-specific, not countywide.
    • Road frontage and setbacks also apply.

    minimum lot size: >= 5 acres

    “Houses are permitted "by right" in Agricultural Districts, but they must meet the following criteria: Lot size (5-acre minimum)”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Houses and accessory structures in Accomack County Agricultural Districts.

    • 50 feet from the road right-of-way or front property line.
    • 15 feet from side property lines, or 5 feet for accessory structures.
    • 35 feet from the rear property line, or 5 feet for accessory structures.
    • No accessory structures are permitted in the front setback area.
    • For an approved subdivision on record with the County, the plat or covenants may supply the standards considered during zoning review.

    front setback: 50 feet (road right-of-way or front property line) · side setback: 15 feet (5 feet for accessory structures) · rear setback: 35 feet (5 feet for accessory structures)

    “Setbacks 50 feet from road right-of-way or front property line 15 feet from side property lines (5 feet for accessory structures) 35 feet from rear property line (5 feet for accessory structures) No accessory structures are permitted in the front setback area”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Houses and accessory structures in Accomack County Agricultural Districts.
      “Setbacks 50 feet from road right-of-way or front property line 15 feet from side property lines (5 feet for accessory structures) 35 feet from rear property line (5 feet for accessory structures) No accessory structures are permitted in the front setback area”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Houses and accessory structures in Accomack County Agricultural Districts.

    • Accessory structures may not exceed 12 feet at the eave line.
    • Accessory structures exceeding 12 feet at the eave line must be more than 10 feet from any property line.

    principal structure height: <= 35 feet · accessory structure eave height: <= 12 feet · property-line separation for accessory structures over 12-foot eave height: > 10 feet

    “Height Not to exceed 35 feet Accessory structures not to exceed 12 feet at the eave line as defined Accessory structures that exceed 12 feet at the eave line as defined must be more than 10 feet from any property line”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Houses and accessory structures in Accomack County Agricultural Districts.
      “Height Not to exceed 35 feet Accessory structures not to exceed 12 feet at the eave line as defined Accessory structures that exceed 12 feet at the eave line as defined must be more than 10 feet from any property line”
    • Specified — Houses and accessory structures in Accomack County Agricultural Districts.
      “Height Not to exceed 35 feet Accessory structures not to exceed 12 feet at the eave line as defined Accessory structures that exceed 12 feet at the eave line as defined must be more than 10 feet from any property line”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Recreational vehicles placed in Accomack County flood-hazard areas.

    • The recreational vehicle must be on site fewer than 180 consecutive days, fully licensed, and ready for highway use; or it must meet all requirements for manufactured homes.
    • Ready for highway use requires being on wheels or a jacking system, attached only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and having no permanently attached additions.

    maximum site duration: < 180 consecutive days (unless the recreational vehicle meets all manufactured-home requirements)

    “Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days [...] or 2. Meet all the requirements for manufactured homes in subsection (4)a.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Travel trailers outside travel-trailer parks in Accomack County agricultural district A when occupied for habitation or storage of chattels.
      “Travel trailers, located outside of travel trailer parks, which are to be occupied for habitation or storage of chattels;”
    • Limited — Travel trailers outside travel-trailer parks in Accomack County residential district R when occupied for habitation or storage of chattels.
      “Travel trailers, located outside of travel trailer parks, which are to be occupied for habitation or storage of chattels;”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Mobile or manufactured homes in the county Residential District.

    • Mobile homes are not permitted by right in the Residential District.
    • A Board of Zoning Appeals Special Use Permit is required before locating one there.
    • The zoning ordinance contains specific building-code standards for mobile homes.
    “Mobile homes are not permitted "by right" in the Residential District. If you would like to locate a mobile home in the Residential District, you will have to first apply to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a Special Use Permit.”
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage pump-out oversight and enforcement in Accomack County and its incorporated towns.

    • VDH responsibility for the cited CBPA pump-out requirements is effective July 1, 2023.
    • Licensed operators must report site-visit results using VDH's web-based reporting tool.
    • Chapter 486 states that violations are Class 3 misdemeanors.

    effective date: 2023-07-01

    “Pursuant to Chapter 486 of the 2022 Virginia Acts of Assembly, VDH is responsible for management and enforcement of OSS pump-outs required by the CBPA within the following localities effective July 1, 2023: Accomack, Essex, Gloucester, King and Queen, King William, Lancaster, Mathews, Middlesex, Northampton, Northumberland, Richmond, and Westmoreland counties and the incorporated towns within those counties.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Pole barns and similar farm structures in Accomack County.

    • A permit is generally required unless the owner has an active farming operation involving cultivation of crops or raising livestock for sale.
    • The applicant must sign an affidavit for the farm-structure exemption.
    • Other regulations, including the floodplain ordinance, still apply.
    “Yes, unless you have an active farming operation such as the cultivation of crops or the raising of livestock for sale. You will be required to sign an affidavit for a farm structure exemption. You still will be subject to other regulations such as the floodplain ordinance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Pole barns and farm structures in Accomack County.
      “Yes, unless you have an active farming operation such as the cultivation of crops or the raising of livestock for sale. You will be required to sign an affidavit for a farm structure exemption. You still will be subject to other regulations such as the floodplain ordinance.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision reviews and subdivision plats affecting zoning review in Accomack County.

    • The VDH page identifies subdivision reviews among applications requiring private-sector consultant support.
    • For an approved subdivision recorded with the County, the plat or covenants may establish the setback and frontage standards considered in zoning review.
    “In the case of an approved subdivision that is on record with the County, the set-back and frontage requirements should be stated on the plat or in the covenants and those would be the standards that are considered for the zoning review process.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    New construction and residential structures in Accomack County flood hazard areas.

    • In AE zones except Coastal A Zones, new structures require elevation certificates before construction and after finished construction; an interim certificate may also be required.
    • Three flood elevation certificates are required for flood-zone structures: application, post-foundation, and final.
    • New residential structures must elevate the lowest floor or horizontal member at least two feet above base flood level.
    • VE and Coastal A Zone designs must be certified by a Virginia-licensed registered design professional.
    • The page states enclosed areas beneath design flood elevation are no longer allowed in VE and Coastal A Zones after January 2024 VAUSBC changes.

    minimum elevation above base flood level: >= 2 feet (new residential structures in Flood Hazard Areas)

    “In addition, the lowest floor (AE Zones except Coastal A Zones) or lowest horizontal member (VE and Coastal A zones)of new residential structures located in Flood Hazard Areas in Accomack County's jurisdiction must be elevated to a minimum of two feet above the base flood level.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    County building permit pricing in Accomack County.

    • The county FAQ states that permit price is calculated using construction cost; it does not provide a numeric fee schedule in the opened source.

    permit price basis: cost of construction

    “You need a building permit for all construction that involves the construction, repair, movement to another site, removal, or demolition of any building or structure. All electrical, plumbing and mechanical work needs a separate permit for each trade. The price of the permit is calculated using the cost of the construction.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Most building permit applications in Accomack County.

    • Most applications proceed through Environmental, Zoning, Health, Treasurer's Office, and Building Department reviews.
    • Applicants generally need do nothing during review unless contacted for more information.
    • Applications for Captain's Cove, Trail's End, or incorporated towns should first be submitted to the applicable entity.
    “As soon as you are ready to build, it is important to submit your building application right away. As soon as you do, there are several reviews through which most applications must proceed. The following reviews are required for most applications: Environmental Department Zoning Department Health Department Treasurer's Office Building Department”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Most Accomack County building-permit applications.
      “The following reviews are required for most applications: Environmental Department Zoning Department Health Department Treasurer's Office Building Department”

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;”
  • 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 permitRequired

    Construction, operation, expansion, or modification of a sewage disposal or handling system in Virginia.

    • A written construction permit is required before construction, expansion, or modification.
    • A written operation permit is required for sewage disposal systems constructed after the effective date of the chapter.
    • Permit conditions may be imposed and must be followed.
    • The $75 statutory onsite sewage permit application fee may be waived for applicants below federal poverty guidelines or applications for a pit privy or repair of a failing onsite sewage system; the fee is refunded if the Department denies a permit for land on which the applicant seeks to construct a principal residence.

    onsite sewage permit application fee: 75 USD (Statutory fee; waiver and refund provisions apply as stated in § 32.1-164(C).)

    “No person or owner shall construct, operate, expand or modify a sewage disposal or handling system without a written permit from the commissioner.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Onsite sewage disposal systems in Accomack County.
      “All onsite sewage disposal systems require permitting by the Virginia Department of Health. Our environmental health specialists(EHS) are certified as Onsite Soil Evaluators (OSE) through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Permitted onsite sewage systems in Accomack County.
      “When the sewage disposal system is properly installed, inspections conducted, and completion statement from the installer received, the health department will approve the sewage disposal system for use and by issuing an Operations Permit.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, or abandonment of private wells in Accomack County.

    • A VDH permit is required before construction, alteration, or abandonment of a private well.
    • A site evaluation is generally required, and the well must be installed by a licensed well driller.
    • The opened official VDH page states a $300 fee for a new well permit, but it is a Virginia Beach local fee and is not used as an Accomack-specific fee.
    “A permit is required by the Virginia Department of Health before the construction, alteration, or abandonment of a private well. The Virginia Beach Health Department will conduct a site evaluation of the property to ensure the proposed well meets the required setbacks to sources of contamination.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding 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.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Accomack County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage standards in Accomack County.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in Accomack County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy in Accomack County.
  • Off-grid sanitation — Off-grid sanitation in Accomack County.
1 more unanswered
  • 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 Accomack County

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

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

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 Shore Groundwater Management Area

    Covers all of Accomack and Northampton on the EPA sole-source Columbia/Yorktown-Eastville aquifer; large withdrawals (>=300,000 gal/mo) are tightly managed against saltwater intrusion. Household wells are exempt but must be registered.

    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 Accomack County, Virginia

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

Accomack County scores 70/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 15,382 people within a 30-minute drive. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Accomack County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Virginia Department of Health, Eastern Shore 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.

How much does land cost in Accomack County, Virginia?

Land in Accomack County runs about $5,045 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Accomack County?

Accomack County gets about 45.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.4% of years. On water rights, Accomack County lies in the Eastern Shore Groundwater Management Area — Covers all of Accomack and Northampton on the EPA sole-source Columbia/Yorktown-Eastville aquifer; large withdrawals (>=300,000 gal/mo) are tightly managed against saltwater intrusion. Household wells are exempt but must be registered..

How remote is Accomack County?

A representative private-land location has about 15,382 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,822,816 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 Accomack compares in Virginia

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