Bolthole Index

Prince George County, Virginia

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Prince George County, Virginia

60Index Score / 100
#80 of 133 in Virginia

Prince George County, Virginia requires a building permit for a new home, and Building Inspections reviews the plans under the statewide building code1. County Planning also checks the proposed dwelling against zoning and any applicable conditions2. Private septic systems and wells go through the Virginia Department of Health's Crater Health District3.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for all new construction1
Building code
The 2021 Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code applies4
Zoning
Yes; Planning checks the dwelling, buildable area and applicable conditions52
Septic and wells
State-administered through Crater Health District Environmental Health36
RV living
State campground law excepts some individual-owner camping, but county zoning approval remains unconfirmed78
Tiny homes
No separate countywide path was confirmed; zoning, building and sanitation reviews still matter153
Owner-builder
A limited contractor-licensing exemption applies to an owner building a primary residence for personal use9
Farm structures
Qualifying nonresidential farm buildings are conditionally exempt from the building code10

Who to call

Building permits

Prince George County Community Development — Building Inspections Division

Residential building applications, plan review and inspections

(804) 722-8659

inspections@princegeorgecountyva.gov

6602 Courts Drive, First Floor Post Office Box 68 Prince George, VA 23875

Planning & zoning

Prince George County Planning Division

Zoning review for residential building applications

(804) 722-8678

6602 Courts Drive

Septic permits

Virginia Department of Health — Prince George Health Department

Local Crater Health District contact for state-administered onsite sewage and private-well services

(804) 733-2630

6450 Administration Drive Prince George, VA 23875

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 1, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Prince George County, Virginia?

Yes. Prince George County Building Inspections issues permits for all new construction and enforces the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code1. Virginia's current adopted edition is the 2021 Uniform Statewide Building Code, effective in 20244. A permit application must reach the building official and the permit must be obtained before covered work begins11. The county's residential instructions call for a completed application, structural plans, plot plans and the building-permit fee2. A qualifying one-story detached tool shed, storage shed, playhouse or similar structure no larger than 256 square feet is exempt from the state permit requirement, although special flood-hazard or historic-district rules can override some exemptions12. Qualifying nonresidential farm buildings used for farming can also be exempt, but applicable flood rules still apply10.

Who handles Prince George County building permits and inspections?

Prince George County Community Development's Building Inspections Division handles residential permit applications, plan review and construction inspections at 6602 Courts Drive, First Floor, Prince George, VA 238752. Call (804) 722-8659 or email inspections@princegeorgecountyva.gov2. The county says Building Inspections checks plans against the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and inspects construction at critical stages2. Permit fees are set by the local governing body and may use square footage, volume, construction cost or another appropriate basis13. Virginia requires applicable inspections of foundations, concealed structural and trade work, energy-conservation materials and the completed project, although the exact sequence depends on the work14.

Does Prince George County have zoning?

Yes. Prince George County maintains a zoning ordinance with districts and district requirements5. For a residential application, the Planning Division determines whether the proposed dwelling meets zoning requirements and any applicable proffered conditions8. Planning also checks whether a single-family dwelling may occupy the lot and whether the proposed location sits inside the lot's buildable area8. Call Prince George County Planning at (804) 722-8678 before fixing the house site or assuming an accessory use is allowed8. Virginia county zoning jurisdiction covers unincorporated territory, while an incorporated municipality controls zoning inside its boundaries15. The available facts do not establish one countywide minimum house size or one setback for every district, so obtain the parcel's zoning determination from Planning.8

How do septic and well permits work in Prince George County?

The Virginia Department of Health administers onsite sewage and private-well work in Prince George County through Crater Health District Environmental Health3. Start with the Prince George Health Department at 6450 Administration Drive, Prince George, VA 23875, phone (804) 733-26306. A written permit is required before constructing, operating, expanding or modifying a sewage disposal system16. Soil feasibility is a practical concern: only about 10% of mapped county soils rate as free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so arrange the site evaluation before committing to a house location17. A professionally certified system design follows a different inspection route; other installations must be inspected and approved before they are covered or used18.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Prince George County?

Virginia's campground law excludes some camping by an individual owner who can provide sanitary facilities on the property and is not barred by covenants, restrictions or conditions, but that exception does not establish a right to live indefinitely in an RV7. We could not confirm how Prince George County zoning treats RV occupancy on a private parcel, so ask the Planning Division at (804) 722-8678 about the parcel and proposed duration before buying for that use8. We also could not confirm a separate countywide tiny-home approval path or minimum dwelling size. A site-built small dwelling still faces Prince George County building-permit and zoning review, while private septic and well arrangements go through Crater Health District153. Virginia exempts an owner who builds or supervises one primary residence for personal use within a 24-month period from contractor licensing, but the building code, permits and inspections still apply9.

Building a home in Prince George County: the steps, in order

  1. Call Planning at (804) 722-8678 to confirm jurisdiction, the parcel's zoning, allowed residential use and buildable area8.
  2. Contact the Prince George Health Department at (804) 733-2630 for private-well and septic evaluation before fixing the house location63.
  3. Obtain a VDOT land-use permit if a new or changed driveway will connect to state-maintained highway right-of-way19.
  4. Submit the residential application, structural plans, plot plans and fee to Building Inspections at 6602 Courts Drive2.
  5. Request the required inspections as work reaches each applicable stage, before covered work is concealed14.
  6. Pass final inspection and obtain the certificate of occupancy before moving into the regulated dwelling20.

What should you check before buying land in Prince George County?

Confirm zoning and the buildable area with Prince George County Planning before relying on a seller's description of what the parcel can support8. Test septic feasibility early because only about 10% of mapped soils rate as free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field17. Confirm legal access and ask VDOT about any entrance connecting to state-maintained highway right-of-way19. Ask Building Inspections whether the site lies in a special flood hazard area because Virginia allows permit review for otherwise-exempt work there212. For carrying costs, the effective property-tax rate is about 0.8%, the median annual property-tax bill is about $2,098, and USDA farmland value averages about $4,187 per acre222324.

Watch-outs

  • Prince George County's residential review involves Building Inspections, Planning, utilities and the Health Department, so a building permit is not the only approval to resolve2.
  • Only about 10% of mapped soils rate as free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field; obtain a site evaluation before treating a proposed house site as buildable17.
  • We could not confirm countywide rules for private-parcel RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy or minimum dwelling size; ask Planning about the exact parcel and proposed use8.

Sources

  1. Prince George County, VA - Building a Residential Structure (2026 county census)
  2. Prince George County Community Development — Building Inspections Division (princegeorgecountyva.gov)
  3. Virginia Department of Health - Crater Health District Environmental Health (2026 county census)
  4. Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  5. Prince George County, VA Code of Ordinances (Municode) (2026 county census)
  6. Virginia Department of Health — Prince George Health Department (vdh.virginia.gov)
  7. Code of Virginia, Title 35.1 — Hotels, Restaurants, Summer Camps, and Campgrounds (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  8. Prince George County Planning Division (princegeorgecountyva.gov)
  9. § 54.1-1101. Exemptions; failure to obtain certificate of occupancy; penalties (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Code of Virginia § 36-99. Provisions of Code; modifications (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. 13VAC5-63-70. Section 107 Fees (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. 13VAC5-63-130. Section 113 Inspections (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. § 15.2-2280. Zoning ordinances generally (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. 12VAC5-610-240. Permits; general (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. 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
  18. 12VAC5-610-320. Inspection and correction (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. Land use permits (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  20. 13VAC5-63-160. Section 116 Certificates of occupancy (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  23. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  24. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data

Written October 1, 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, Prince George County has countywide zoning.

RulePrince George CountyPetersburg CityHopewell CityColonial Heights CitySussex CountyCharles City CountySurry County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVDHVDHVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVDH

County locator

Prince George County in Virginia

60
County map
Prince George County highlighted among the Virginia counties · colored by Index score

How Prince George County scores

Seclusion28100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency69100% ev.
Admin Boringness3990% ev.
Durability80100% ev.
Property Autonomy66100% ev.
Carry Cost76100% 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 →

$363kTypical home
0.8%Property tax
$4,187Land / acre
48.1"Annual rain
1.1% of yrsSevere drought
9.5 / yr (+8.4)Mid-century 100°F days
12.6 daysMid-century dry spell
2.35" (+5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.41×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,386Home insurance / yr
3.2% / yrInsurance growth
1.94%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
89,246People within 30 min
4,517,566People within 2 hr
150,105Radius comparison (15 mi)
161.6People / sq mi
6.4%Federal land
93.9%Land at 15% slope or less
9.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
15,545 acWorkable land screen
71.2%Wooded land
54.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
59.4°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Prince George County

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

Prince George County rules

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.”
  • 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;”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    “The following minimum inspections shall be conducted by the building official when applicable to the construction or permit:”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • Who permits septicState

    Statewide supervision and control of onsite sewage systems, alternative discharging sewage systems, and treatment works affecting public health and welfare.

    • Local or district health departments administer application, inspection, and permit functions under the statewide framework.
    • Alternative discharging sewage systems are also subject to applicable State Water Control Board regulations and permits.
    “The Board shall have supervision and control over the safe and sanitary collection, conveyance, transportation, treatment, and disposal of sewage by onsite sewage systems and alternative discharging sewage systems, and treatment works as they affect the public health and welfare.”
  • Septic 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.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Installation of sewage disposal systems statewide.

    • For installations not pursuant to a design certified by a licensed professional engineer or onsite soil evaluator, no part may be covered or used until inspected, corrected if necessary, and approved by the district or local health department, unless expressly authorized.
    • Installations under a certified professional engineer or onsite soil evaluator design are exempt from the local-health-department inspection requirement in 12VAC5-610-320 and instead require the certifier's inspection report under 12VAC5-610-330.
    • The rule is inapplicable to a Type III septage disposal facility.
    “This section shall not apply to any sewage disposal system installation that is pursuant to a design certified by a licensed professional engineer or onsite soil evaluator.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

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

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

    Subdivision of land and its development in every Virginia locality.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    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.”

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 Prince George County

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

Over-appropriated / declining

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

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

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

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

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

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

    Virginia DEQ / 9VAC25-600-20 ↗

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

Living off-grid in Prince George County, Virginia

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

Prince George County scores 60/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: about 89,246 people within a 30-minute drive and more administrative friction around building and land use.

Do you need a building permit in Prince George County, Virginia?

Prince George County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Virginia Department of Health - Crater Health District (Environmental Health). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Prince George County, Virginia?

Land in Prince George County runs about $4,187 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Prince George County?

Prince George County gets about 48.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.1% of years. On water rights, Prince George County lies in the Eastern Virginia Groundwater Management Area — DEQ has imposed mandatory withdrawal reductions on large Coastal Plain permittees because permitted demand exceeds sustainable aquifer yield (declining heads, land subsidence, saltwater-intrusion risk). Household wells (<300,000 gal/mo) are exempt but must be registered. The I-95-west counties (Fairfax, Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Caroline) are included only east of I-95..

How remote is Prince George County?

A representative private-land location has about 89,246 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,517,566 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 Prince George compares in Virginia

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