Bolthole Index

Bland County, Virginia

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

67Index Score / 100
#48 of 133 in Virginia

Bland County, Virginia requires a building permit for a new home, and the county Building Official enforces Virginia's statewide building code12. Bland County also has county zoning, so a rural parcel's allowed use and dimensions need zoning review before design work begins3. Septic and private-well applications start with the Bland County Health Department45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for a new home; apply through the Bland County Building Official167
Zoning
Yes; Bland County has a county zoning ordinance83
Septic permits
Required; requests start with the Bland County Health Department4910
Private wells
A written permit application goes to the district or local health department5
Owner-builder
Allowed for an owner building or improving a home they own and occupy; the exemption is from contractor licensing, not permits1112
RV or tiny-home living
County rules were not confirmed; ask Building, Planning, and Zoning before relying on either use37
Driveway access
The building application requires a VDOT entrance permit or review letter13
Conventional septic soils
Only 6.9% of soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field14

Who to call

Building permits

Bland County Building, Planning, and Zoning

Building-code enforcement, building permits and inspections, planning, and zoning in Bland County

276-688-4622

jcagle@bland.org

P.O. Box 510 612 Main St. Suite 204 Bland, VA 24315

Septic permits

Bland County Health Department (Mount Rogers Health District)

Local starting point for onsite sewage and private-well permit requests in Bland County under Virginia Department of Health authority

(276) 688-3642

209 Jackson Street PO Box 176 Bland, VA 24315

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 Bland County, Virginia?

Yes. Bland County requires a permit before constructing or demolishing a building or structure, subject to the exemptions and exceptions in Virginia's statewide code6. The Bland County Building Official enforces that code locally and performs compliance inspections27. Permitted work receives inspections at applicable stages, including footing, foundation, concealed structural and utility work, energy-conservation work, and final completion15. A certificate of occupancy is generally required before a new building can be occupied, with exceptions for certain accessory structures and additions16. A person who builds or supervises no more than one primary residence in any 24-month period that the person owns and uses personally falls under a Virginia contractor-license exemption, but that exemption does not erase the building-permit requirement, and the owner must still follow the statewide building code1112. An exempt owner must also get a certificate of occupancy before selling the home, unless the buyer acknowledges in writing that none was issued12. Qualifying nonresidential farm buildings may be exempt from the building code, although floodplain protections can still apply17.

Who is the Bland County building department, and how do you reach it?

Bland County Building, Planning, and Zoning is the local permit office, and its Building Official enforces the statewide building code and inspects for compliance7. The office is at P.O. Box 510, 612 Main St., Suite 204, Bland, VA 24315; call 276-688-4622 or email jcagle@bland.org7. Contact this office before construction to confirm the application, plan, zoning, fee, and inspection requirements for the exact project67. Bland County's published fee for a residential or commercial structure is $0.16 per square foot, with a $30 miscellaneous minimum and an additional 2% surcharge on listed fees18. Virginia lets local governing bodies set their own building-permit fee schedules, so confirm the amount for the exact project with the office19. Bland County's application process calls for building plans and site plans for listed work such as houses, additions, porches, decks, garages, storage buildings, manufactured homes, and pools20. Applications involving private water and sewer also need health-department approval, while public utility connections go through the Public Service Authority2021.

Does Bland County have zoning?

Yes. Bland County adopted a zoning ordinance in 1995, and county zoning applies to land under the county's jurisdiction3. Virginia counties exercise zoning authority over unincorporated territory, while an incorporated municipality controls zoning inside its own boundaries22. For a rural parcel in unincorporated Bland County, ask Building, Planning, and Zoning to identify the zoning district and confirm the proposed dwelling, manufactured home, accessory structure, or other land use before buying or designing37. In the AG district, a residential lot served by both public water and public sewer must be at least 80 feet wide and 10,000 square feet, and a lot served by only one of them must be at least 100 feet wide and 15,000 square feet2324. In the MHP manufactured-home district, each lot or space needs at least 7,000 square feet, a home must sit at least 35 feet from an existing public street or highway right-of-way, and homes must be at least 30 feet apart or 15 feet from a lot line2526. We could not confirm minimum lot sizes for AG parcels on private well and septic, setbacks in other districts, lot coverage, building-height limits, minimum dwelling size, or accessory-dwelling rules. Separately, a Virginia law taking effect July 1, 2027 will treat accessory dwelling units as a permitted accessory use in single-family residential zoning districts, with an ADU permit from the locality capped at $500, though the law does not apply to a locality that adopted its own ADU ordinance before January 1, 202627. Short-term rentals remain subject to local land-use and zoning authority28. The lack of a confirmed dimensional standard is not permission to ignore one; the Building, Planning, and Zoning office is the right place to get a parcel-specific answer7. Land division is separately regulated because Virginia requires every locality to adopt a subdivision ordinance29.

How do septic and well permits work in Bland County?

Onsite sewage permit requests for Bland County start with the Bland County Health Department in the Mount Rogers Health District, even though permits are issued under state authority410. A written permit is required before constructing, expanding, or modifying an onsite sewage system30. Private-well construction also requires a written application directed to the district or local health department5. Call the Bland County Health Department at (276) 688-3642 or visit 209 Jackson Street, Bland, VA 24315, before fixing a house site on the survey10. Soil limitations make early evaluation especially valuable: only 6.9% of Bland County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field14. A difficult rating does not by itself make a parcel unbuildable, but it makes the approved system design and usable reserve area central to the buying decision149.

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

We could not confirm a Bland County rule that allows or prohibits living in an RV on an ordinary private parcel, so ask Building, Planning, and Zoning how the county classifies the use before buying land or moving an RV onto it37. Where an RV sits in Zone A or AE on the county's flood insurance rate map, it must be on the site fewer than 180 consecutive days, be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the county's permit, elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes31. Virginia's temporary-camping limits in the available statewide material govern permitted campgrounds, not private homestead occupancy, so they do not answer the private-land question32. We also could not confirm a separate Bland County tiny-home category or a county minimum dwelling size. A tiny home intended as a permanent residence still raises zoning, building-code, sanitation, and occupancy questions that the county and health department should resolve for the proposed parcel139. Manufactured homes have a clearer statewide route, but Bland County zoning still matters; Virginia law conditionally protects manufactured-home placement in zoning districts where site-built housing is allowed333.

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

  1. Ask Bland County Building, Planning, and Zoning to confirm the parcel's district, proposed residential use, and applicable dimensional standards37.
  1. Apply to the Bland County Health Department for onsite sewage and private-well approvals if the parcel will not use public utilities4510.
  1. Obtain a VDOT entrance permit or a letter showing that VDOT is reviewing the entrance application13.
  1. Submit the county building application with the required building and site plans, plus the applicable health-department, utility, and entrance documents2021.
  1. Build under Virginia's statewide code and notify the Building Official as each required inspection stage is reached215.
  1. Complete the final inspection and obtain the certificate of occupancy before moving into the new home16.

What should you check before buying land in Bland County?

Start with zoning and sanitation feasibility, not the house plan. Bland County has zoning, while only 6.9% of county soils rate without severe limits for a conventional drain field314. Terrain also deserves a parcel-level look because only 24.4% of the county's land has a slope of 15% or less, and 78.4% is wooded3435. Verify legal and practical road access because Bland County's building process requires VDOT entrance documentation13. Ask whether the building site lies in a special flood hazard area, where the Building Official may require a permit even for work otherwise exempt from the statewide building code36. For budgeting context, the effective property-tax rate is about 0.6%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $8683738. A private utility plan should also account for the required well and septic approvals before construction59.

Watch-outs

  • Bland County's setbacks in other districts, minimum home size and general RV-occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask Building, Planning, and Zoning for a parcel-specific zoning determination before closing37.
  • Only 6.9% of Bland County soils rate without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so obtain health-department and site-evaluation guidance early1410.
  • A Bland County building application needs VDOT entrance documentation, so road access can affect the permit sequence even when a parcel fronts a road13.

Sources

  1. Bland County - Building, Planning, and Zoning (2026 county census)
  2. Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), quoted and re-checked
  3. Planning Commission, quoted and re-checked
  4. Environmental Health - Mount Rogers Health District, quoted and re-checked
  5. 12VAC5-630-220. Permits and inspection statement; general, quoted and re-checked
  6. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit, quoted and re-checked
  7. Bland County Building, Planning, and Zoning (blandcountyva.gov)
  8. Bland County Comprehensive Plan (2026 county census)
  9. 12VAC5-610-250. Procedures for obtaining a construction permit for a sewage disposal system, quoted and re-checked
  10. Bland County Health Department (Mount Rogers Health District) (vdh.virginia.gov)
  11. Virginia Contractor Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  12. § 54.1-1101. Exemptions; failure to obtain certificate of occupancy; penalties, quoted and re-checked
  13. County of Bland Building Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  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. § 36-105. Enforcement of Code; inspections; issuance of permits, quoted and re-checked
  16. 13VAC5-63-160. Section 116 Certificates of occupancy, quoted and re-checked
  17. Code of Virginia § 36-99. Provisions of Code; modifications (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. Building Permit Fees, quoted and re-checked
  19. 13VAC5-63-70. Section 107 Fees (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  20. County of Bland Building Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  21. County of Bland Building Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  22. § 15.2-2280. Zoning ordinances generally (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. Sec. 62-224. Minimum lot sizes, quoted and re-checked
  24. Sec. 62-224. Minimum lot sizes, quoted and re-checked
  25. Sec. 62-274. Manufactured home lot or space, quoted and re-checked
  26. Sec. 62-274. Manufactured home lot or space, quoted and re-checked
  27. Code of Virginia § 15.2-2292.4 — Development and use of accessory dwelling units (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Code of Virginia, Chapter 9. General Powers of Local Governments (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Code of Virginia § 15.2-2240. Localities to adopt ordinances regulating subdivision and development of land (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. 12VAC5-610-240. Permits; general (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Sec. 30-82. Specific standards for areas of special flood hazard, quoted and re-checked
  32. 12VAC5-450 Rules and Regulations Governing Campgrounds (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. § 15.2-2290. Uniform regulations for manufactured housing (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  34. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  36. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  37. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  38. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

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, Bland County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleBland CountyWythe CountyPulaski CountyGiles CountyTazewell CountyRadford CitySmyth County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesNoYesYesNoYesYes
Septic permitsVDHVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVDH

County locator

Bland County in Virginia

67
County map
Bland County highlighted among the Virginia counties · colored by Index score

How Bland County scores

Seclusion57100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency53100% ev.
Admin Boringness43100% ev.
Durability60100% ev.
Property Autonomy66100% ev.
Carry Cost89100% ev.

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

$195kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$2,949Land / acre
43.2"Annual rain
0.6% of yrsSevere drought
0.1 / yr (+0.1)Mid-century 100°F days
11.5 daysMid-century dry spell
1.57" (+8.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.67×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$972Home insurance / yr
-0.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.61%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
1,295,774People within 2 hr
47,804Radius comparison (15 mi)
17.3People / sq mi
33.6%Federal land
24.4%Land at 15% slope or less
6.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
15,622 acWorkable land screen
78.4%Wooded land
71.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
51.8°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Bland County

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

Bland County rules

  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Bland County zoning ordinance.

    “The County adopted a zoning ordinance in 1995 that appears to be serving the County’s needs for the present.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County-administered land-use zoning in Bland County.

    • The county comprehensive plan states that the County adopted a zoning ordinance in 1995.
    • Specific permissions, restrictions, and district requirements must be determined from the applicable county zoning ordinance provisions.
    “The County adopted a zoning ordinance in 1995 that appears to be serving the County’s needs for the present.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — The county's own zoning ordinance; this claim does not determine whether any incorporated municipality has separate zoning rules.
      “Archived Minutes Bland County Zoning Ordinances Bland County Comprehensive Plan”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Residential lots in Bland County's AG district served by only one of public water or sewer, through the AG district's cross-reference to Chapter 46 subdivision provisions.

    • The AG district minimum lot size is the same as required in the county subdivision provisions.
    • These dimensions apply to residential lots served by only one public water or sewer system.

    minimum lot width: >= 100 feet · minimum lot area: >= 15000 square feet

    “Residential lots served by only one of public water or sewer system shall be 100 feet or more in width and 15,000 square feet or more in area.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Residential lots in Bland County's AG district served by both public water and public sewer, through the AG district's cross-reference to Chapter 46 subdivision provisions.
      “Residential lots served by both public water and public sewer systems shall be 80 feet or more in width and 10,000 square feet or more in area.”
    • Specified — Manufactured-home lots or spaces in Bland County's MHP zoning district.
      “Each manufactured home lot or space designed to accommodate one manufactured home shall have a minimum area of 7,000 square feet, one side of which shall front on an internal street, road or right-of-way.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Manufactured-home lots or spaces in Bland County's MHP zoning district.

    • Each lot or space must front on an internal street, road, or right-of-way.
    • Stands must provide at least 30 feet between individual manufactured homes or 15 feet from the property or manufactured-home lot line.
    • Each manufactured home must be placed at least 35 feet from the right-of-way of an existing public street or highway.

    minimum width at 35-foot setback line: >= 70 feet · distance between manufactured homes: >= 30 feet (Alternatively, 15 feet from the property or manufactured-home lot line.) · distance from existing public street or highway right-of-way: >= 35 feet

    “Each manufactured home lot or space shall have a minimum width of 70 feet at the 35 foot set back line. [...] Stands for manufactured homes shall be arranged so as to provide a distance of at least 30 feet or more between individual manufactured homes or 15 feet from the property or manufactured home lot line. [...] Each manufactured home shall be placed not less than 35 feet from the right-of-way of any existing public street or highway.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles placed on sites within Zone A and AE on Bland County's community Flood Insurance Rate Map.

    • The RV must be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, or be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the permit requirements of section 30-64 and the elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes in section 30-81(2).
    • A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use only when it is on its wheels or jacking system, attached only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions.

    site duration: < 180 days (Alternative compliance is available under the fully licensed/highway-ready or permit/elevation/anchoring alternatives.)

    “All recreational vehicles placed on sites within Zone A, and AE on the community's FIRM either: a. Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, b. Be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or c. Meet the permit requirements of [ section 30-64 ] of this chapter and the elevation and anchoring requirements for "manufactured homes" in section 30-81 (2) of this chapter.”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Bland County properties served by the Mount Rogers Health District environmental-health program.

    • The program covers private wells, on-site sewage systems, and sewage handlers.
    • The 2024 annual report separately identifies Bland septic and well applications, inspections, permits, and operation permits.
    “The Water and Wastewater program provides surveillance, inspection, and regulatory oversight of private wells, on-site sewage systems, and sewage handlers.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction of onsite sewage disposal systems in Bland County.

    • Type I systems serving a single residence normally begin with an application.
    • Type II systems require an application, a preliminary conference as necessary, and informal plans, specifications, design criteria, and other data as required; formal plans may be required depending on size and complexity.
    • For design flows less than 1,000 gallons per day that qualify for the professional-engineer exemption, formal plans and specifications are waived.

    design-flow threshold: < 1000 gallons per day (formal plans and specifications are waived only where the professional-engineer exemption applies)

    “Construction permits are issued by the commissioner but all requests for a sewage disposal construction permit shall be directed initially to the district or local health department.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Building permit applications for Bland County properties using private or public water and sewer.

    • Private water and sewer require a copy of a health-department permit.
    • A potable water sample must pass before issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
    • Public water, sewer, and/or garbage applicants must submit a Public Service Authority application.
    • Water and sewer connection fees must be paid in full before installation of service.
    • Public garbage collection is mandatory.
    “PRIVATE WATER AND SEWER: Provide a copy of permit issued by the Health Department; [...] Complete and submit a Public Service Authority application for service. Connection Fees for water and sewer service must be paid in full before installation of service.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Bland County building-permit applications involving an entrance or driveway connection to a public road.

    • The application requires a copy of a VDOT permit or a letter stating that the application is being reviewed.
    • The opened county form does not state the technical entrance-permit standards or exemptions.
    “ENTRANCE PERMITS:Provide a copy of permit, or letter stating that application is being reviewed, from Virginia Dept. of Transportation (VDOT); Telephone # (276) 393-5086.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Bland County building permit fees for residential and commercial structures and listed accessory, trade, demolition, tank, environmental, tower, and miscellaneous work.

    • All listed fees are subject to an additional 2% surcharge.
    • The residential or commercial structure fee is $0.16 per square foot; a miscellaneous/minimum fee of $30.00 is also published.

    residential or commercial structures: 0.16 USD per square foot (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · chimney: 30 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · HVAC/mechanical: 30 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · demolishing: 50 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · plumbing: 30 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · signs: 35 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · electrical: 50 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · moving buildings: 50 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · tanks installation or removal: 50 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · environmental: 50 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · miscellaneous/minimum: 30 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · communication tower: 1000 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · cell tower electrical hookup: 30 USD flat fee (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.) · cell tower equipment building: 0.12 USD per square foot (Subject to an additional 2% surcharge.)

    “All Structures- Residential or Commercial | $0.16 Sq Ft [...] Miscellaneous/Minimum fee | $30.00 Flat Fee [...] All above fees are subject to an additional 2% surcharge”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Bland County building-permit applications.

    • The application requests owner, property, contractor, project, plans, site-plan, water/sewer, health-department, and VDOT entrance-permit information.
    • A Virginia contractor license with required specialty classifications is required before issuance unless an owner-contractor affidavit or another applicable exemption applies.
    • The application states that connection fees must be paid before installation of water or sewer service.
    “BUILDING PLANS: Provide a sketch of structure or a set of building plans for review, to be retained by Building Official.”

Virginia rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction or demolition of buildings or structures, and the listed installations or alterations, throughout Virginia under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

    • A permit must be obtained before commencement of construction or demolition of a building or structure and specified installations or alterations.
    • For emergency construction, alterations, or equipment replacement, the application must be submitted by the end of the first working day after work commences; the building official may authorize work to commence pending receipt of the application or issuance of the permit.
    • Applications and related inspections are not required for the listed exemptions, including specified low-voltage or communications installations; one-story detached tool or storage sheds, playhouses, or similar structures not exceeding 256 square feet and not classified as Group F-1 or H; detached utility buildings not exceeding 150 square feet; tents or air-supported structures covering 900 square feet or less with occupant load of 50 or less; fences subject to stated exceptions; concrete or masonry walls not exceeding six feet; qualifying retaining walls supporting less than three feet of unbalanced fill; qualifying swimming pools not exceeding 150 square feet and less than 24 inches deep; qualifying signs; same-capacity replacement LP-gas containers; flagpoles 30 feet or less; qualifying temporary ramps; minor and ordinary construction work; listed ordinary repairs; qualifying crypts, mausoleums, and columbaria not exceeding 1,500 square feet; and billboard safety upgrades.
    • A permit may nevertheless be required for exempt replacement siding, roofing, and windows in a locality-designated historic district or for exempt items in a special flood hazard area.
    • A permit applicant must provide proof of contractor licensure or certification, or a written statement that the applicant is not subject to contractor or subcontractor licensure or certification; the applicant must also provide proof that required county, city, or town taxes or license fees have been paid.

    detached exempt structure area: <= 256 square feet (must be one story, detached, used as a tool or storage shed, playhouse, or similar use, and not Group F-1 or H) · detached utility building area: <= 150 square feet (must house publicly regulated utility equipment) · tent or air-supported structure area: <= 900 square feet (occupant load must be 50 or less) · concrete or masonry wall height: <= 6 feet (measured above finished grade) · retaining wall unbalanced fill: < 3 feet (must not impound Class I, II, or III-A liquids or support a surcharge other than ordinary unbalanced fill) · small swimming pool surface area: <= 150 square feet (must be less than 24 inches deep) · flagpole height: <= 30 feet · temporary dwelling ramp entrance height: <= 30 inches (serving Groups R-3 or R-5 dwelling units) · crypt, mausoleum, or columbarium area: <= 1500 square feet (must not be for occupancy, must be used solely for interment, and must not be subject to special inspections)

    “Application for a permit shall be made to the building official and a permit shall be obtained prior to the commencement of any of the following activities, except that applications for emergency construction, alterations, or equipment replacement shall be submitted by the end of the first working day that follows the day such work commences.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction or demolition of a building or structure and specified structural, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fuel-supply, and occupancy-change work in Bland County.
      “Application for a permit shall be made to the building official and a permit shall be obtained prior to the commencement of any of the following activities, except that applications for emergency construction, alterations, or equipment replacement shall be submitted by the end of the first working day that follows the day such work commences.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A person performing or supervising construction, removal, repair, or improvement of no more than one primary residence owned by that person and for that person's own use during any 24-month period, including in Bland County.

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

    primary residences per 24-month period: <= 1 residence

    “no more than one primary residence owned by him and for his own use during any 24-month period;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — A person constructing or supervising no more than one primary residence owned by that person and for that person's own use during a 24-month period.
      “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;”
    • Conditional — A person performing or supervising construction, removal, repair, or improvement of one primary residence owned by that person and for that person's own use, for contractor-licensing purposes.
      “Any person who performs or supervises the construction, removal, repair, or improvement of no more than one primary residence owned by him and for his own use during any 24-month period;”
  • 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) — Construction of new buildings, structures, additions, maintenance, repairs, renovations, and changes of use in Bland County.
      “The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) contains the building regulations that must be complied with when constructing a new building, structure, or an addition to an existing building.”
  • InspectionsRequired

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

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

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

    “The following minimum inspections shall be conducted by the building official when applicable to the construction or permit:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Buildings and structures regulated by the USBC in Bland County.
      “Any building or structure may be inspected at any time before completion, and shall not be deemed in compliance until approved by the inspecting authority. Where the construction cost is less than $2,500, however, the inspection may, in the discretion of the inspecting authority, be waived.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Occupancy or change of occupancy of buildings or structures regulated by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

    • A certificate of occupancy must be obtained before occupancy or change of occupancy.
    • The building official issues it within five working days after approval of the final inspection and determination of compliance with the code and pertinent laws or ordinances.
    • A certificate of occupancy is not required for an IRC accessory structure.
    • A new certificate of occupancy is not required for an addition to an existing Group R-5 building that already has a certificate of occupancy.
    • A temporary certificate may be issued before completion if the portion can be occupied safely without endangering life or public safety.
    • For certain contractor-license exemptions, a certificate of occupancy must still be obtained before conveying the property to a third-party purchaser unless the purchaser acknowledges in writing that none was issued and consents to acquire without one.

    certificate issuance deadline after final inspection approval: 5 working days (when the building or structure is determined to comply with the code and pertinent laws or ordinances)

    “Prior to occupancy or change of occupancy of a building or structure, a certificate of occupancy shall be obtained in accordance with this section.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Occupancy or change of occupancy of buildings or structures subject to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.
      “Prior to occupancy or change of occupancy of a building or structure, a certificate of occupancy shall be obtained in accordance with this section.”
  • 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.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Private wells constructed, altered, abandoned, or deepened in Bland County.

    • The written construction permit is from the commissioner.
    • The rule applies after November 6, 2024.
    • Replacement of a well pump, equivalent well seal or cap, or vertical casing extension above ground is not considered a well alteration.
    • A written inspection statement is required before placing a private well in operation, subject to stated exceptions.

    permit validity: 18 months (one 18-month renewal is available except as provided in 12VAC5-630-270, 290, and 300)

    “After November 6, 2024, no person shall construct, alter, abandon, or increase the depth of a private well or allow the construction, alteration, abandonment, or activity to increase the depth of a private well without a written construction permit from the commissioner.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

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

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

    Subdivision of land and its development in every Virginia locality.

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

    Development and construction in floodplain areas in Virginia, including Bland County, subject to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and applicable local floodplain regulations.

    • The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code does not supersede local floodplain regulations adopted as a condition of participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.
    • Farm buildings and structures lying within a flood plain or mudslide-prone area are subject to applicable flood-proofing or mudslide regulations.
    • The cited state rule does not establish Bland County's specific floodplain map, administrator, permit form, district boundaries, elevation requirements, or local ordinance text.
    “this code shall not supersede [...] local flood plain regulations adopted as a condition of participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Work otherwise exempt from a Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code permit when located in a special flood hazard area.
      “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.”
    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.

  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Bland County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum floor area or other minimum dwelling-size requirement for residential dwellings in Bland County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage standards in Bland County.
  • Building height — Building-height standards in Bland County.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in Bland County.
2 more unanswered
  • Tiny homes
  • Off-grid sanitation

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 Bland County, Virginia

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

Bland County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop.

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

Bland County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Virginia Department of Health (VDH), Office of Environmental Health Services / Onsite Sewage Program. 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 Bland County, Virginia?

Land in Bland County runs about $2,949 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Bland County?

Bland County gets about 43.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 0.6% of years.

How remote is Bland County?

A typical private-land location has about 47,804 people within 15 miles and 4,273,746 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Bland compares in Virginia

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