Bolthole Index

Washington County, Virginia

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

70Index Score / 100
#35 of 133 in Virginia

Unincorporated Washington County, Virginia requires a building permit before constructing, enlarging, altering or changing the use of a structure1. County zoning applies outside Abingdon, Damascus, Glade Spring and the Washington County part of Saltville; the county ordinance excludes those towns2. The Virginia Department of Health handles septic approval where public sewer is unavailable and private-well approval where public water is unavailable345.

At a glance

Building permit
Required before construction, enlargement, alteration or change of use1
Zoning
County-administered outside the incorporated-town exclusions6
Septic permits
VDH approval required where public sewer is unavailable4
Private wells
VDH approval required where public water is unavailable5
Owner-builder
Conditional affidavit route for an unlicensed owner acting as contractor7
RV and tiny-home living
Permit forms exist, but occupancy and zoning conditions remain unconfirmed8
Manufactured home use
Zoning permit required; residential use only, not storage or a workshop9

Who to call

Building permits

Washington County Department of Building & Development Services

Building permits, zoning applications, plan review and inspections for Washington County and the Towns of Damascus and Glade Spring

(276) 525-1340

buildhelp@washcova.com

1 Government Center Place, Abingdon, VA 24210

Online permits →

Health department

Washington County Health Department (Virginia Department of Health, Mount Rogers Health District)

Septic and private-well applications for Washington County through the Mount Rogers Health District

(276) 676-5604

15068 Lee Highway, Suite 1000, Bristol, VA 24202

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Washington County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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

Washington County requires a written building-permit application before constructing, enlarging, altering or changing the use of a structure1. Building & Development Services reviews plans, inspects construction at applicable stages and enforces building, electrical and plumbing codes1011. Virginia exempts qualifying nonresidential farm buildings from the Building Code; the county agricultural electrical exemption excludes dwellings and restaurants and ends when the use changes1213. A new home needs a certificate of occupancy before move-in under Virginia law14. Certain owner-builders must also obtain a certificate before selling unless the purchaser acknowledges in writing that none was issued and agrees to buy without one15.

Who handles building permits in Washington County, Virginia?

The Washington County Department of Building & Development Services issues building permits, reviews plans and conducts inspections for Washington County and the Towns of Damascus and Glade Spring8. Call (276) 525-1340, email buildhelp@washcova.com or visit 1 Government Center Place, Abingdon, VA 242108. Submit a completed zoning and building application, construction and site plans, and applicable tax, utility, access, erosion-control and contractor documents16. County building-permit fees use project valuation, including labor and materials at fair-market rates for owner-performed work; starting work before obtaining required building permits adds a review fee equal to the normal permit fee17. The published schedule adds a 2% levy and permits a $50 reinspection fee beginning with the third inspection of the same work, at the Building Official’s discretion18. The schedule is labeled effective in 2016, so ask the department for the current project total18.

Does Washington County, Virginia have zoning?

Unincorporated Washington County has county zoning, and the county GIS supplies the official zoning map and parcel information219. The county ordinance excludes Abingdon, Damascus, Glade Spring and the Washington County portion of Saltville; confirm the applicable zoning office before applying6. Septic approval remains with VDH where public sewer is unavailable43. Minimum lot area depends on district and utilities: A-1 requires 2 acres, reduced to 1 acre with public water20. A-2 requires 1 acre without public water or sewer, 30,000 square feet with public water, or 15,000 square feet with both21. MHR requires 1 acre without public water or sewer, 30,000 square feet with public water only, or 20,000 square feet with both22. Ask Building & Development Services to confirm setbacks and the intended residential use for the parcel8.

How do septic permits work in Washington County, Virginia?

The Virginia Department of Health’s Mount Rogers Health District oversees onsite sewage systems and private wells in Washington County; contact the Washington County Health Department at (276) 676-56042324. New construction and additions need VDH septic approval where public sewer is unavailable, or proof of payment of the public-sewer connection fee where service exists425. The county also requires a VDH well approval number or the public-water connection receipt, as applicable26. About 24.1% of county soils are rated “not limited” for a conventional drain field; that countywide screening does not establish a particular lot’s suitability, so arrange a site evaluation before committing to a homesite27. VDH-approved alternative onsite sewage systems may serve properties where conventional systems are unsuitable28.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Washington County, Virginia?

Washington County publishes an RV Application and a Tiny Home Permit, but we could not confirm the zoning districts, occupancy duration or approval conditions for living in either on private land; ask Building & Development Services about the parcel and intended use8. County zoning excludes the named incorporated towns, so confirm jurisdiction before applying6. Virginia’s campground rules do not establish a general right to live in an RV on private land29. A manufactured home requires a zoning permit before placement and may serve only as a residence, not storage or an accessory workshop9. New construction and additions without public sewer need VDH septic approval before the county issues a building permit30.

What are the steps to build a home in Washington County, Virginia?

  1. Identify whether the parcel falls under county zoning or a town exclusion, then obtain the applicable zoning approval6.
  2. Obtain VDH septic approval and private-well approval where public service is unavailable, or gather public-utility connection receipts42625.
  3. For new construction served by a driveway connecting to a Virginia secondary highway, obtain a VDOT entrance permit; the county’s stated requirement excludes renovations and additions31.
  4. Submit the zoning and building application, plans, tax ticket for new construction and supporting documents; disturbance exceeding 10,000 square feet requires land-disturbance materials, with an agreement in lieu of an erosion plan acceptable for residential projects16.
  5. Provide the contractor license or applicable owner-builder affidavit716.
  6. Obtain the building permit, request construction-stage inspections and obtain the new home’s certificate of occupancy before move-in11014.

What should you check before buying land in Washington County, Virginia?

Check proposed lot divisions and access before buying Washington County land: dividing a tract into 3 or more parts is regulated, and some 2-lot divisions qualify when they extend public utilities or create or change roads, easements or rights-of-way32. Family divisions also need review under state and county rules; contact Zoning Administration before proceeding32. Check the official zoning map for FEMA-designated flood-hazard areas because county rules regulate construction and other activity there33. About 63.8% of county land is wooded, and about 32.4% has a slope of 15% or less, making homesite and access selection consequential3435. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.5%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $1,0383637.

Watch-outs

  • County zoning excludes Abingdon, Damascus, Glade Spring and the Washington County portion of Saltville; VDH septic approval is still required for new construction and additions without public sewer64.
  • Washington County requires septic or sewer evidence and well or public-water evidence for new construction and additions before issuing the building permit2526.
  • We could not confirm long-term RV living, temporary camping, tiny-home occupancy or minimum dwelling size; ask Building & Development Services about the intended use and parcel8.

Sources

  1. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  2. Zoning - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  3. Washington County VA - Building & Development (2026 county census)
  4. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  5. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  6. Zoning - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  7. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  8. Washington County Department of Building & Development Services (washcova.com)
  9. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  10. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  11. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  12. Code of Virginia § 36-99. Provisions of Code; modifications (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Agricultural Electrical Application, quoted and re-checked
  14. 13VAC5-63-160. Section 116 Certificates of occupancy (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. 13VAC5-63-80. Section 108 Application for permit, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  17. Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  18. Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  19. Zoning - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  20. Sec. 66-299. Area regulations, A-1 district, quoted and re-checked
  21. Sec. 66-324. Area regulations, A-2 district, quoted and re-checked
  22. Sec. 66-584. Area regulations, MHR district, quoted and re-checked
  23. Environmental Health - Mount Rogers Health District, quoted and re-checked
  24. Washington County Health Department (Virginia Department of Health, Mount Rogers Health District) (vdh.virginia.gov)
  25. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  26. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  27. 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
  28. § 15.2-2157. Onsite sewage systems when sewers not available; civil penalties, quoted and re-checked
  29. Code of Virginia, Title 35.1 — Hotels, Restaurants, Summer Camps, and Campgrounds (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  31. Building & Development - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  32. Zoning - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  33. Zoning - Washington County Virginia, quoted and re-checked
  34. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Washington County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleWashington CountyBristol CityRussell CountySmyth CountyTazewell CountyScott CountyDickenson County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesNoYesNo
Septic permitsVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVDHVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of Health

County locator

Washington County in Virginia

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

How Washington County scores

Seclusion46100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency69100% ev.
Admin Boringness3990% ev.
Durability84100% ev.
Property Autonomy66100% ev.
Carry Cost77100% 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 →

$264kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$5,621Land / acre
46.6"Annual rain
0% of yrsSevere drought
1.1 / yr (+1)Mid-century 100°F days
11.2 daysMid-century dry spell
1.58" (+8.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.67×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,028Home insurance / yr
2.6% / yrInsurance growth
1.68%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
44,595People within 30 min
2,188,970People within 2 hr
60,887Radius comparison (15 mi)
96.3People / sq mi
8.9%Federal land
32.4%Land at 15% slope or less
24.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
83,208 acWorkable land screen
63.8%Wooded land
85.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
54.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Washington County

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

Not yet researched: Town of Abingdon · Town of Damascus

Answers from the rulebook for Washington County

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

Washington County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Constructing, enlarging, altering, or changing the use of a structure in Washington County and the towns identified by the county page.

    • Written application must be made to the County Building Official before construction, enlargement, alteration, or change of use begins.
    • Before issuance, a completed zoning and building application and listed supporting documents are required.
    • A septic approval or public sewer connection receipt is required for new construction and additions where applicable.
    • A VDOT entrance permit is required for a new structure served by a Virginia secondary highway.
    • A land-disturbing permit and erosion-control plan are required when more than 10,000 square feet is disturbed, subject to the residential agreement-in-lieu exception.
    • A Virginia contractor license card or Section 54.1-1111 affidavit is required at permit issuance.
    • A VDH well approval permit number or public water connection receipt is required where applicable.

    land disturbance threshold: > 10000 sq. ft. (Agreement in lieu of plan is acceptable for residential work.)

    “The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code Sec. 109.1 states written application for permit shall be made to the County Building Official before any of the following actions may be commenced: constructing, enlarging, altering or changing the use of a structure. Please check with the County Department of Building Inspection prior to any construction within the County (including within the Towns of Damascus, Glade Spring, and portions of the Town of Saltville).”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Constructing, enlarging, altering, or changing the use of structures.
      “The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code Sec. 109.1 states written application for permit shall be made to the County Building Official before any of the following actions may be commenced: constructing, enlarging, altering or changing the use of a structure.”
    • Required — Constructing, enlarging, altering, or changing the use of a structure in Washington County, including the Towns of Damascus, Glade Spring, and portions of the Town of Saltville identified by the county page.
      “The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code Sec. 109.1 states written application for permit shall be made to the County Building Official before any of the following actions may be commenced: constructing, enlarging, altering or changing the use of a structure.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An unlicensed person acting as their own contractor to obtain a building permit.

    • The county provides an owner-builder affidavit route under Virginia Code § 54.1-1111.
    • The county page recommends consultation with the County Building Official before construction-related work.
    “To be completed by unlicensed persons desiring to act as their own contractor for the purposes of obtaining a Building Permit. (Note: Consultation with County Building Official is strongly recommended before attempting construction-related work as permitted pursuant to Section 54.1-1111 of the 1950 Code of Virginia).”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Buildings and structures regulated by Washington County Building & Development Services.

    • The department enforces building, electrical, and plumbing codes of Washington County and the Commonwealth of Virginia.
    • The county Board of Building Code Appeals hears appeals concerning application of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.
    “The County Department of Building & Development Services is responsible for the issuing of permits and conducting inspections for new construction, modifications and other building related activities within Washington County and the Towns of Damascus and Glade Spring. The Department reviews plans prior to construction and inspects projects at certain phases of the construction process to ensure compliance with local and state standards, and enforces the building, electrical and plumbing codes of Washington County and the Commonwealth of Virginia.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    New construction, modifications, and other building-related activities administered by the County Department of Building & Development Services.

    • Inspections occur at certain phases of construction; the page does not enumerate every phase.
    • The department also reviews plans before construction.
    “The County Department of Building & Development Services is responsible for the issuing of permits and conducting inspections for new construction, modifications and other building related activities within Washington County and the Towns of Damascus and Glade Spring.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New construction, modifications, and other building-related activities within Washington County and the Towns of Damascus and Glade Spring.
      “The Department reviews plans prior to construction and inspects projects at certain phases of the construction process”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning in Washington County, subject to incorporated-town exclusions.

    • The County Zoning Ordinance does not apply within the Towns of Abingdon, Damascus, Glade Spring, or the Washington County portion of Saltville, which have their own town zoning ordinances.
    “All parcels of land in Washington County lie within at least one (1) of sixteen (16) different Zoning Districts. In addition, the Towns of Abingdon, Damascus, Glade Spring and the Washington County portion of the Town of Saltville each have their own Town Zoning Ordinances. The County Zoning Ordinance does not apply within these towns.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of county zoning and incorporated-town zoning within Washington County.

    • The county administers zoning in county territory outside the named towns.
    • Abingdon, Damascus, Glade Spring, and the Washington County portion of Saltville have their own town zoning ordinances; the county ordinance does not apply within those towns.
    “In addition, the Towns of Abingdon, Damascus, Glade Spring and the Washington County portion of the Town of Saltville each have their own Town Zoning Ordinances. The County Zoning Ordinance does not apply within these towns.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of county zoning and incorporated-town zoning within Washington County.
      “The County Zoning Ordinance does not apply within these towns.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Washington County zoning districts and official zoning map.

    • The county states that all parcels lie within at least one of sixteen zoning districts.
    • The official County Zoning Map is available through the county's netGIS database.
    • Town zoning ordinances apply in the named towns instead of the County Zoning Ordinance.

    minimum number of county zoning districts: >= 16 districts

    “official Zoning Map of Washington County”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Washington County zoning districts and official zoning-map information.
      “Washington County’s GIS site offers the user a wealth of data such as zoning information, parcel information, and addressed structure information.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Each permitted use in the A-2 agricultural, general district.

    • One acre applies with no public water or sewer.
    • 30,000 square feet applies with public water.
    • 15,000 square feet applies with public sewer and water.

    minimum lot area without public water or sewer: 1 acre · minimum lot area with public water: 30000 square feet · minimum lot area with public sewer and water: 15000 square feet

    “The lot area for each permitted use in the A-2 district shall be as follows: (1) A minimum of one acre with no public water or sewer. (2) A minimum of 30,000 square feet with public water. (3) A minimum of 15,000 square feet with public sewer and water.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Each permitted use in the A-1 agricultural, limited district.
      “The minimum lot area for each permitted use in the A-1 district shall be two acres; one acre, where public water is available.”
    • Specified — Each permitted use in the MHR manufactured home residential district.
      “The lot area for each permitted use in the MHR district shall be as follows: (1) With public water and public sewer, a minimum of 20,000 square feet. (2) With public water only, a minimum of 30,000 square feet. (3) With no public water or public sewer, a minimum of one acre.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Structures in Washington County's county-administered Residential General (R-2) zoning district, outside incorporated towns.

    • The county zoning ordinance does not apply within Abingdon, Damascus, Glade Spring, or the Washington County portion of Saltville, which have separate town zoning ordinances.
    • The rule is measured from the street right-of-way when it is 50 feet or greater wide, and from the street right-of-way centerline when it is less than 50 feet wide.
    • Signs advertising sale or rent of premises may be erected up to the property line.
    • Additional R-2 yard and corner-lot rules may also apply.

    setback from street right-of-way: >= 35 feet (Signs advertising sale or rent of premises may be erected up to the property line.) · setback from street right-of-way centerline: >= 60 feet (Signs advertising sale or rent of premises may be erected up to the property line.)

    “Structures in the R-2 district shall be located 35 feet or more from any street right-of-way that is 50 feet or greater in width or 60 feet or more from the centerline of any street right-of-way less than 50 feet in width, except that signs advertising sale or rent of premises may be erected up to the property line. This shall be known as the "setback line."”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Structures in Washington County's county-administered Residential Limited (R-1) zoning district, outside incorporated towns.
      “Structures in the R-1 district shall be located 35 feet or more from any street right-of-way that is 50 feet or greater in width or 60 feet or more from the centerline of any street right-of-way less than 50 feet in width. This shall be known as the "setback line."”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured housing units in Washington County.

    • A zoning permit is required before moving a manufactured housing unit onto property.
    • A manufactured home may only be used for its intended residential use.
    • Manufactured housing units may not be used as storage buildings or accessory buildings such as workshops.
    • Town zoning ordinances may apply in incorporated towns.
    “In Washington County, a manufactured home can only be used for its intended use as a residential structure; manufactured housing units (MHUs) may not be used as storage buildings or accessory buildings such as workshops.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Manufactured homes in Washington County.
      “In Washington County, a manufactured home can only be used for its intended use as a residential structure; manufactured housing units (MHUs) may not be used as storage buildings or accessory buildings such as workshops.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New construction and additions where no public sanitary sewer service is available.

    • Virginia Department of Health septic-system approval is required before a building permit can be issued.
    • The condition applies to new construction and additions only.
    “Virginia Department of Health Septic System Approval where no public sanitary sewer service is available”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Private wells and on-site sewage systems in Washington County, which is served by the Mount Rogers Health District.

    • The program provides surveillance, inspection, and regulatory oversight rather than establishing a universal inspection rule for every property.
    • System designs are submitted by the private sector for review in Washington County and other district localities except Wythe and Smyth Counties.
    • Separate construction-approval requirements apply when a building permit is sought for new construction or additions without public sewer.
    “The Water and Wastewater program provides surveillance, inspection, and regulatory oversight of private wells, on-site sewage systems, and sewage handlers.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    New construction and additions without public sanitary sewer service.

    • Virginia Department of Health septic-system approval is required before a building permit can be issued.
    • The county statement is limited to new construction and additions.
    “Virginia Department of Health Septic System Approval where no public sanitary sewer service is available”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    New construction and additions requiring sewer and water service documentation.

    • Where public sanitary sewer is unavailable, VDH septic approval is required.
    • Where public sanitary sewer is available, proof of payment of the public sanitary sewer connection fee is required.
    • Where public water is unavailable, a VDH well-system approval permit number is required.
    • Where public water is available, proof of payment of the public water connection fee is required.
    “Virginia Department of Health Well System Approval Permit number where no public water service is available or receipt for Payment of Public Water Connection Fee where public water is available.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — New construction and additions where public water or public sanitary sewer is available.
      “Virginia Department of Health Septic System Approval where no public sanitary sewer service is available or receipt for payment of Public Sanitary Sewer Connection Fee where public sanitary sewer is available. Required for new construction and additions only.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural electrical service in Washington County, Virginia.

    • The service must be used for agricultural uses only.
    • The exemption does not authorize residential-dwelling or restaurant use.
    • If the use changes, the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code applies.
    • If a change of use is proposed, a Certificate of Occupancy will not be issued until verification by the Building Official.
    “I am applying for an agricultural exemption for electrical service in Washington County Virginia. I certify that this service is to be used for agricultural uses only. I understand that if the use ever changes that it will have to comply with the Virginia Statewide Uniform Building Code.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Division of land under Washington County's subdivision ordinance.

    • A subdivision includes dividing a tract, parcel, or lot into three or more parts for sale, transfer, or building development.
    • The definition also includes certain two-lot divisions involving public-water or public-sewer extension, or creation or change of streets, roads, easements, or rights-of-way.
    • Parcel modifications, boundary adjustments, and consolidations require zoning-administration approval.

    number of resulting divisions: >= 3 parts or more (Certain two-lot divisions are included when the stated infrastructure or access conditions apply.)

    “Under the Washington County Subdivision Ordinance, a “subdivision” means to divide any tract, parcel or lot of land into three (3) or more parts, lots, parcels, tracts or other divisions for the purpose (whether immediate or future) of sale, transfer or building development, and including two lots which involves the extension of any public water or public sewer service or results in the creation of any new street, road, easement or right-of-way, or any change in existing roads, streets, easements, or rights-of-way.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Division of land in Washington County under the County Subdivision Ordinance.
      “Under the Washington County Subdivision Ordinance, a “subdivision” means to divide any tract, parcel or lot of land into three (3) or more parts, lots, parcels, tracts or other divisions for the purpose (whether immediate or future) of sale, transfer or building development, and including two lots which involves the extension of any public water or public sewer service or results in the creation of any new street, road, easement or right-of-way, or any change in existing roads, streets, easements, or rights-of-way.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New buildings or structures served by an access-drive connection to a Virginia secondary highway.

    • A Virginia Department of Transportation Entrance Permit is required for a new building or structure served by an access-drive connection to a Virginia secondary highway.
    • The requirement applies to new construction only and not renovations or additions.
    “Virginia Department of Transportation Entrance Permit for new building/structure to be served by access drive connection to a Virginia secondary highway. Required for new construction only-not required for renovations or additions.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Construction and other activities in designated flood-hazard areas of Washington County.

    • The County Zoning Ordinance contains flood-hazard-area regulations in Chapter 66, Flood Hazard District Regulations.
    • Designated flood-hazard areas are established by FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps incorporated into the official County Zoning Map.
    • The county participates in the National Flood Insurance Program.
    “In order to maintain eligibility of County property owners to purchase flood insurance, the County Zoning Ordinance contains provisions for the regulation of construction and other activities in designated flood hazard areas of Washington County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction and other activities in FEMA-designated flood hazard areas of Washington County.
      “In order to maintain eligibility of County property owners to purchase flood insurance, the County Zoning Ordinance contains provisions for the regulation of construction and other activities in designated flood hazard areas of Washington County.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    County building-permit and inspection fees.

    • The opened official schedule is titled Effective June 1, 2016; no newer county fee schedule was established in this research.
    • A $50 re-inspection fee applies after the third and subsequent inspections at the Building Official's discretion.
    • Work started before required permits incurs a review fee equal to the normal permit fee.
    • An additional two percent of the base permit fee is assessed to all permits.

    re-inspection fee: 50 USD (after the third and subsequent inspections, at the discretion of the Building Official) · DHCD levy fee: 2 percent of base permit fee (all permits)

    “A re-inspection fee of $50 shall be assessed after the third and subsequent inspections of the same work at the discretion of the Building Official.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County building permits and related permits.
      “A re-inspection fee of $50 shall be assessed [...] An additional two percent (2%) of the base permit fee shall be assessed to all permits.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Washington County building permits and associated trade, plan-review, re-inspection, levy, and temporary-structure fees.
      “EFFECTIVE JUNE 1, 2016 Fee Schedule Valuation/Estimated Cost* Fee $0.01 to $1,000 $25 $1,001 to $50,000 $25 for the first $1,000, plus $4 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building-permit applications for new construction, additions, and major renovations.

    • Submit a completed zoning and building application.
    • New construction requires a recent tax ticket.
    • Where public sewer is unavailable, submit VDH septic approval; where public sewer is available, submit proof of payment of the public sanitary sewer connection fee.
    • New construction and additions require VDOT entrance approval when served by a Virginia secondary highway.
    • Two copies of construction and site plans are required for new construction, additions, and major renovations.
    • More than 10,000 square feet of disturbance requires the land-disturbing permit form and erosion and sediment control plan; an agreement in lieu is acceptable for residential projects.
    • Submit a contractor license card or the applicable county affidavit form.

    land disturbance threshold: > 10000 square feet (during construction)

    “Before a Building Permit can be issued a completed zoning and building application must be submitted to the County Department of Building Inspection along with the following items (see Helpful Links above for additional information):”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Washington County building-permit application process.
      “Before a Building Permit can be issued a completed zoning and building application must be submitted to the County Department of Building Inspection along with the following items (see Helpful Links above for additional information):”

Virginia rules that apply here

  • 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
    • Limited — Changes of occupancy and specified owner-builder or contractor-exemption situations applicable in Washington County.
      “Any person who is exempt from the provisions of this chapter as a result of subdivision A 7, 10, 11, or 12 shall obtain a certificate of occupancy for any building constructed, repaired or improved by him prior to conveying such property to a third-party purchaser, unless such purchaser has acknowledged in writing that no certificate of occupancy has been issued and that such purchaser consents to acquire the property without a certificate of occupancy.”
  • 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 (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage and private-well permitting affecting Washington County properties without public sewer or public water.

    • The Virginia Department of Health administers permitting for properties not served by public sewer or public water.
    • Washington County requires the VDH approval as part of its building-permit process.
    “Property that is not served by public sewer or a public water system requires permitting by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). The property owner or agent must obtain a permit to construct a sewage disposal system or private well before the county will issue a building permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Well permitRequired

    Private-well construction serving Washington County property without public water.

    • A VDH well-system approval permit number is required for new construction and additions where no public water is available.
    • After sanitary-survey approval, VDH issues a private-well construction permit; local health-department personnel inspect the well before approving it for use.
    “Once the sanitary survey is approved, you will be issued a private well Construction Permit. This document will be used by a licensed Water Well System Provider to install and construct your well. Following construction, LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT personnel will inspect the well in order to approve it for use.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

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

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

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

    “Except as provided in this section, nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit, limit, or otherwise supersede existing local authority to regulate the short-term rental of property through general land use and zoning authority.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Recreational vehicles and other camping units offered as campsites in Virginia campgrounds, including facilities with three or more campsites and travel-trailer camps; this claim does not establish a general residential right to occupy an RV outside the specified campground framework.

    • A campground includes land or facilities accommodating camping units for periods of overnight or longer and includes travel trailer camps.
    • A campground must be permitted by the Virginia Department of Health and is inspected annually by local health department staff.
    • Offering three or more campsites may require a campground permit, including short-term or online-advertised camping.
    • Temporary campground permits allow up to 14 days of temporary camping, consecutively or nonconsecutively, within a 60-day period.
    • Temporary campgrounds must provide at least one portable toilet per 75 campers, make sewage-tank pumping available when RVs are present, and provide an acceptable water source.
    • The statutory definition excludes property where an individual owner may choose to camp, provided the owner is not prohibited or encumbered by covenants, restrictions, or conditions from providing sanitary facilities within the owner's property lines.
    • Other exclusions include summer camps, migrant labor camps, parks for manufactured homes, construction camps, and storage areas for unoccupied camping units.

    minimum campsites for campground definition: >= 3 campsites (The individual-owner camping exception and other statutory exclusions apply.) · temporary campground permit duration: <= 14 days (In a 60-day period, consecutively or nonconsecutively.) · temporary campground permit period: 60 days · portable toilets: per 1 per 75 campers (Temporary campgrounds.)

    “"Campground" means any area, place, parcel, or tract of land, by whatever name called, on which three or more campsites are occupied or intended for occupancy, or facilities are established or maintained, wholly or in part, for the accommodation of camping units for periods of overnight or longer [...] "Camping unit" means any device or vehicular type structure for use as temporary living quarters or shelter during periods of recreation, vacation, leisure time, or travel, including any tent, tent trailer, travel trailer, camping trailer, pickup camper, or motor home.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Virginia counties adopting and administering zoning ordinances over unincorporated territory statewide.

    • The zoning power is exercised by county governing bodies through ordinance.
    • County zoning jurisdiction covers unincorporated territory; incorporated areas are under municipal jurisdiction.
    • The statute permits regulation of land uses, structures, dimensional standards, open spaces, and excavation or mining, including residential and flood-plain uses.
    “For the purpose of zoning, the governing body of a county shall have jurisdiction over all the unincorporated territory in the county, and the governing body of a municipality shall have jurisdiction over the incorporated area of the municipality.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Virginia counties administering and enforcing the Uniform Statewide Building Code and issuing building permits for construction, including residential construction, in county jurisdiction.

    • Virginia's building code is a Uniform Statewide Building Code adopted by the State Board; it supersedes county building codes and regulations.
    • The county's role is local administration and enforcement through a local building department, not independent adoption of a conflicting county building code.
    • A county without a building department or local board of Building Code appeals must enter an agreement with another county, municipality, agency, or approved state agency for enforcement and appeals.
    • A town with a population of less than 3,500 may elect to administer and enforce the Building Code; if it does not, the county administers and enforces the Code for that town.
    • Buildings may be inspected before completion and are not deemed compliant until approved by the inspecting authority; inspections under $2,500 construction cost may be waived at the inspecting authority's discretion.
    • Building permit and enforcement fees may be levied by the local governing body.
    • Farm buildings and structures are exempt from the Building Code except for a farm building or portion operated as a licensed restaurant; farm buildings in flood plains or mudslide-prone areas remain subject to applicable flood-proofing or mudslide regulations.

    small-town population threshold: < 3500 people (The town may elect to administer and enforce the Building Code; otherwise the county administers it for the town.) · inspection-waiver construction cost threshold: < 2500 USD (The inspecting authority may waive inspection at its discretion.)

    “Enforcement of the provisions of the Building Code for construction and rehabilitation shall be the responsibility of the local building department. [...] Whenever a county or a municipality does not have such a building department or board of Building Code appeals, the local governing body shall enter into an agreement with the local governing body of another county or municipality or with some other agency, or a state agency approved by the Department for such enforcement and appeals resulting therefrom.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements under Washington County or applicable town zoning ordinances.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage requirements under Washington County or applicable town zoning ordinances.
  • Building height — Building-height requirements under Washington County or applicable town zoning ordinances.
  • Living in an RV — Residential or long-term occupancy of recreational vehicles on Washington County property.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private property in Washington County.
1 more unanswered
  • Tiny homes

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 Washington County, Virginia

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

Washington County scores 70/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a durable current and mid-century hazard profile and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Washington County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Virginia Department of Health (Mount Rogers Health District), Environmental Services Division. 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 Washington County, Virginia?

Land in Washington County runs about $5,621 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Washington County?

Washington County gets about 46.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 0% of years.

How remote is Washington County?

A representative private-land location has about 44,595 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,188,970 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 Washington compares in Virginia

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