Bolthole Index

Westmoreland County, Virginia

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

63Index Score / 100
#73 of 133 in Virginia

Westmoreland County, Virginia requires building and zoning permits before covered construction begins1. County zoning governs unincorporated land, including lot size, setbacks and residential uses2. Outside public sewer service areas, a new private septic system also needs approval through Three Rivers Health District3.

At a glance

Building permit
Required before covered work begins1
Zoning
Yes in unincorporated areas; standards vary by district and use24
Septic permit
Required outside public sewer areas through Three Rivers Health District53
Private well
Permit required through Three Rivers Health District; $300 fee6
RV living
Not allowed for living or sleeping on a residential lot or other unapproved location7
Tiny home
No separate tiny-home category; building and zoning review applies, and the state 400-square-foot code path does not replace them8910
Owner-builder
Contractor-license exemption may apply; building-code compliance still applies11
Farm buildings
Most qualifying nonresidential farm structures are code-exempt, but other permits may remain12

Who to call

Building permits

Westmoreland County Building & Zoning

Building permits and inspections, zoning, land-use review and online permit applications

804-493-0120

landuse@westmoreland-county.org

P.O. Box 1000 Montross, VA 22520

Online permits →

Septic permits

Virginia Department of Health, Three Rivers Health District — Westmoreland County Health Department

Local Environmental Health contact for onsite sewage and private-well permits

804-493-1235

18849 King’s Highway P.O. Box 303 Montross, VA 22520

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

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

Yes. Westmoreland County requires a building permit before covered principal or accessory buildings, structures, uses, additions and structural alterations proceed; the zoning permit must come first, although both applications may be reviewed together1. The Building Official must approve or deny a complete application within 10 business days, and an issued building permit is valid for 1 year1. The county administers Virginia's statewide building code13. Most qualifying farm buildings or structures are exempt from the building code only when they are nonresidential, on operating farm property and used primarily for qualifying farm purposes; zoning, land-disturbance, stormwater, electrical and other permits may still apply12. An owner-builder exemption can remove contractor-licensing requirements for a qualifying primary residence, but it does not remove building-code compliance or the permit itself11.

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

Westmoreland County Building & Zoning handles building permits, inspections, zoning review and land-use applications: call 804-493-0120, email landuse@westmoreland-county.org or write to P.O. Box 1000, Montross, VA 2252014. Applications may be submitted through the county's Citizens' Permit Portal14. Building applications must document the parcel, proposed building locations, utilities and drainage, and a zoning permit is required whenever a building permit is required15. County permit fees follow the Board of Supervisors' schedule, and additional processing charges may apply when a review costs more than the estimated average16. After final approval, land or buildings covered by the ordinance cannot be used or occupied until the Building Official issues an occupancy permit17.

Does Westmoreland County have zoning?

Yes. Westmoreland County administers zoning in unincorporated territory; incorporated towns may apply separate rules, so confirm whether a parcel sits inside town limits18. Building permits and zoning approval for unincorporated land come from the county, while septic and well permits come from the Three Rivers Health District wherever the parcel sits195. The county publishes base districts, overlays, use tables and district regulations4. Standards are parcel-specific: in the Agricultural Conservation district, a standard single-family lot is generally listed at 10 acres outside the 100-year floodplain with 100-foot front and 40-foot side and rear setbacks; the Rural Conservation figures are 5 acres, 50 feet in front and 40 feet at the sides and rear2021. Both districts generally cap building height at 35 feet, subject to stated exceptions22. We could not confirm a countywide minimum dwelling floor area or complete lot-coverage limits, so have Building & Zoning identify the parcel's district and overlays before laying out a house14.

How do septic and well permits work in Westmoreland County?

Outside Westmoreland County's public sewer service areas, a new private septic system requires a septic permit from Three Rivers Health District Environmental Health Services, which first determines whether the soil supports a system3. A septic construction permit is valid for 18 months and does not transfer to a new owner, so a buyer should not rely on the seller's permit23. Call the Westmoreland County Health Department's Environmental Health line at 804-493-1235 or visit 18849 King’s Highway, Montross, VA 2252024. After installation and inspection, the Health Department must issue an operation permit before the local Building Official can issue a certificate of occupancy25. Additions, replacements and redevelopment involving an existing system receive project-specific review, so confirm the required evaluation before changing a house footprint or bedroom count26. Only 12% of mapped county soils rate as free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, making septic feasibility an important purchase contingency27. A private well also needs a permit: the Health Department inspects it, drinking wells need satisfactory bacteria-free water-sample results, and the fee is $3006.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Westmoreland County?

Westmoreland County does not allow an RV or similar equipment to be used for living, sleeping or other occupancy while parked or stored on a residential lot or another location not approved for occupancy7. A permitted travel-trailer park is different, but campers and travel trailers there are limited to 14 consecutive days7. The county materials do not define a tiny home as a distinct occupancy type, so a site-built small house still needs the normal building and zoning approvals89. Virginia's residential code offers an alternative path for dwellings of 400 square feet or less, but that addresses code compliance only and does not grant zoning approval, septic approval or a right to occupy10. Manufactured homes are allowed for single-family residential use in the Agricultural Conservation and A-1 districts when installed on a permanent foundation, stripped of transportation tongue and axles, and made compliant with applicable zoning and building-code standards28. Accessory dwellings are allowed with one unit per qualifying lot and a 1,200-square-foot cap29.

What are the steps to build a home in Westmoreland County?

  1. Ask Building & Zoning to identify the parcel's district, overlays, permitted residential use, lot size and setbacks414.
  2. Confirm public sewer and water availability; otherwise obtain septic and private-well approvals through Three Rivers Environmental Health30331.
  3. Document an existing driveway, private-road access or the required VDOT entrance approval32.
  4. Submit the zoning and building applications with the plans and supporting documents the county checklist requires15.
  5. Pay the invoiced fees under the county schedule33.
  6. Arrange required building inspections as work proceeds34.
  7. Complete the septic inspection and operation permit, pass final building review, and obtain the occupancy permit before moving in2535.

What should you check before buying land in Westmoreland County?

Start with the zoning district and septic feasibility: Westmoreland County uses district-specific lot sizes and setbacks, while only 12% of mapped soils rate as free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field363727. Check flood exposure before choosing a house site because floodplain rules restrict residential development and variances38. Confirm legal access and whether the permit checklist requires VDOT approval, private-road documentation or an existing driveway culvert32. Public water and sewer serve only specified areas, so verify service rather than assuming it reaches the parcel30. Subdividing land requires county plat review and approval39. For carrying costs, the effective property-tax rate is about 0.6%, the median annual bill is about $1,506, and farmland value averages about $5,735 per acre404142.

Watch-outs

  • An installed septic system must pass inspection and receive an operation permit before the local Building Official can issue a certificate of occupancy25.
  • Only 12% of mapped soils rate as free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field; make an approved site evaluation a purchase contingency273.
  • An owner-builder exemption concerns contractor licensing, not the building permit or code; qualifying owners must still follow county review11.
  • Septic construction permits expire after 18 months and do not transfer with a sale, so ask Three Rivers Environmental Health about the status of any permit that comes with a lot23.

Sources

  1. westmoreland-county.org, quoted and re-checked
  2. Westmoreland County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  3. Water & Sewer, quoted and re-checked
  4. Codes & Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  5. Water & Sewer, quoted and re-checked
  6. Environmental Health Services - Three Rivers Health District, quoted and re-checked
  7. westmoreland-county.org, quoted and re-checked
  8. westmoreland-county.org, quoted and re-checked
  9. Codes & Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  10. 13VAC5-63-210. Chapter 3 Use and occupancy classification, quoted and re-checked
  11. § 54.1-1101. Exemptions; failure to obtain certificate of occupancy; penalties, quoted and re-checked
  12. Farm Building Affidavit, quoted and re-checked
  13. Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), quoted and re-checked
  14. Westmoreland County Building & Zoning (westmoreland-county.org)
  15. westmoreland-county.org, quoted and re-checked
  16. westmoreland-county.org, quoted and re-checked
  17. westmoreland-county.org, quoted and re-checked
  18. Westmoreland County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  19. Building & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  20. Article 2 Base District Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  21. Article 2 Base District Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  22. Article 2 Base District Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  23. Water & Sewer, quoted and re-checked
  24. Virginia Department of Health, Three Rivers Health District — Westmoreland County Health Department (vdh.virginia.gov)
  25. Environmental Health Services - Three Rivers Health District, quoted and re-checked
  26. Checklist for Permit Submittal, 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. westmoreland-county.org, quoted and re-checked
  29. Article 4 Supplemental Use Regulations and Standards, quoted and re-checked
  30. Water & Sewer, quoted and re-checked
  31. Checklist for Permit Submittal, quoted and re-checked
  32. Checklist for Permit Submittal, quoted and re-checked
  33. Forms & Applications, quoted and re-checked
  34. 13VAC5-63-130. Section 113 Inspections (Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  35. law.lis.virginia.gov, quoted and re-checked
  36. Article 2 Base District Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  37. Article 2 Base District Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  38. Article 2 Base District Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  39. Codes & Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  40. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 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, Westmoreland County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleWestmoreland CountyRichmond CountyEssex CountyNorthumberland CountyKing George CountyKing and Queen CountyMiddlesex County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsVA Dept. of HealthVDHVDHVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVA Dept. of HealthVDH

County locator

Westmoreland County in Virginia

63
County map
Westmoreland County highlighted among the Virginia counties · colored by Index score

How Westmoreland County scores

Seclusion40100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency61100% ev.
Admin Boringness3990% ev.
Durability68100% ev.
Property Autonomy66100% ev.
Carry Cost75100% 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 →

$316kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$5,735Land / acre
45.2"Annual rain
1.9% of yrsSevere drought
7 / yr (+6.4)Mid-century 100°F days
13.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.16" (+5.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.45×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,504Home insurance / yr
2.1% / yrInsurance growth
1.36%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
2,580,278People within 2 hr
37,494Radius comparison (15 mi)
82.9People / sq mi
0.5%Federal land
78.8%Land at 15% slope or less
12%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
15,470 acWorkable land screen
59.9%Wooded land
72.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
57.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Westmoreland 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 Montross

Answers from the rulebook for Westmoreland County

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

Westmoreland County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Principal and accessory buildings, structures, uses, construction, reconstruction, movement, additions, and structural alterations subject to the county ordinance.

    • A building permit must be issued by the Building Official before covered work or use proceeds.
    • A zoning permit is required in all cases where a building permit is required.
    • A fee under the County Board's fee schedule is required.
    • A building permit may not issue before receipt of a zoning permit, although both may be submitted, reviewed, and approved concurrently.
    • Approval or denial is due within ten business days after the application is deemed complete.
    • Permits are valid for one year.

    approval or denial deadline: 10 business days (after the Building Official deems the application complete) · building permit validity: 1 year

    “No principal or accessory building, structure or use shall be constructed, reconstructed, moved, added to or structurally altered or otherwise allowed without a building permit issued by the Building Official.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Principal and accessory buildings, structures, and uses in Westmoreland County.
      “No principal or accessory building, structure or use shall be constructed, reconstructed, moved, added to or structurally altered or otherwise allowed without a building permit issued by the Building Official.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    An owner applying for a Westmoreland County building permit who is not subject to contractor or subcontractor licensure.

    • The applicant must furnish the required license, certification, or written affidavit establishing exemption from licensure.
    • The county owner affidavit cites Virginia Code §54.1-1111 and requires the owner to affirm familiarity with its prerequisites.
    “I am not subject to licensure as a contractor or subcontractor.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Qualifying farm buildings or structures in Westmoreland County.

    • The exemption applies to most farm buildings or structures meeting the stated farm-building definition.
    • Agritourism and farm restaurant exceptions may remain subject to other USBC requirements.
    “In such cases, the Building Department requires no inspections, and none will be performed.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Use of land and occupancy, erection, structural alteration, or change in use of buildings permitted in a zoning district.

    • An occupancy permit must be issued by the Building Official.
    • The application is simultaneous with the building-permit application.
    • The permit is issued within ten business days after final Building Official approval if the work conforms to the ordinance and all prior permits and approvals.
    • All approved-site-plan improvements must be complete.

    occupancy permit issuance deadline: 10 business days (after final approval by the Building Official)

    “Land may be used, and buildings occupied, structurally altered, erected, or changed in use for any purpose as permitted in the District in which such land or building is located, only after an occupancy permit has been issued by the Building Official.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Qualifying farm buildings or structures in Westmoreland County.
      “issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy is not required”
    • Required — Use, occupancy, structural alteration, erection, or change in use of land or buildings under the Westmoreland County zoning ordinance.
      “Prior to occupancy or change of occupancy of a building or structure, a certificate of occupancy shall be obtained in accordance with this section.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    County zoning and land-use regulation in Westmoreland County.

    • The county publishes and administers a Zoning Ordinance; particular standards vary by zoning district and use.
    “Westmoreland County Zoning Ordinance (PDF)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Property, structures, and bodies of water in the unincorporated territory of Westmoreland County, Virginia.
      “the unincorporated territory of the County of Westmoreland, Virginia”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of county zoning for unincorporated Westmoreland County and municipal zoning within incorporated towns.

    • Westmoreland County zoning applies to unincorporated territory, subject to stated state, federal, and statutory exemptions.
    • The Town of Colonial Beach separately regulates all incorporated portions of the town that are divided and classified into zoning districts or zones.
    • The county aggregate therefore varies by whether property is in unincorporated county territory or an incorporated municipality; the county does not administer each municipal ordinance.
    “This ordinance applies to all incorporated portions of the Town of Colonial Beach”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning in unincorporated Westmoreland County; incorporated towns may have separate local authority.
      “We make sure new development complies with codes and ordinances designed to protect our environment and ensure compatible land uses.”
    • Present — County-administered zoning in Westmoreland County, including the county zoning ordinance and district regulations.
      “This ordinance and the Official Zoning Map shall be officially known and cited as the "Zoning Ordinance of Westmoreland County, Virginia."”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Westmoreland County zoning districts and district regulations.

    • The county publishes the zoning ordinance by article, including base-district regulations, supplemental regulations, and the table of uses.
    • District-specific dimensional requirements and permitted uses must be read from the applicable district and overlay provisions.
    “Westmoreland County Zoning Ordinance by Article”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Westmoreland County zoning districts and overlay districts.
      “Article 2 - Base Districts (PDF) [...] Article 3 - Overlay Districts (PDF)”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential and other permitted uses in county zoning districts, including Agricultural Conservation and Rural Conservation districts.

    • Requirements vary by zoning district and use.
    • In AC, the Article 2 table lists 10 acres for a single-family dwelling, 25,000 square feet for a cluster lot, and 30 acres for a conservancy lot.
    • In RC, the table lists 5 acres for a single-family dwelling, 25,000 square feet for a cluster lot, and 20 acres for a conservancy lot.

    AC single-family minimum lot size: 10 acres (not in 100-year floodplain) · AC cluster-lot minimum lot size: 25000 square feet · RC single-family minimum lot size: 5 acres · RC cluster-lot minimum lot size: 25000 square feet

    “Single-Family Dwelling 10 acres not in 100-year floodplain 200 ft. 100 ft. 40 ft. 40 ft.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Agricultural Conservation and Rural Conservation zoning districts.
      “Single-Family Dwelling 5 acre 150 ft. 50 ft. 40 ft. 40 ft.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Required front, side, and rear setbacks in county zoning districts.

    • In AC, the table lists 100 feet front, 40 feet side, and 40 feet rear for a standard single-family dwelling; cluster and conservancy lots have different setbacks.
    • In RC, the table lists 50 feet front, 40 feet side, and 40 feet rear for a standard single-family dwelling; cluster and conservancy lots have different setbacks.
    • The ordinance states that modifications to frontage and setback requirements may be approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals through the specified process.

    AC single-family front setback: 100 feet · AC single-family side setback: 40 feet · AC single-family rear setback: 40 feet · RC single-family front setback: 50 feet · RC single-family side setback: 40 feet · RC single-family rear setback: 40 feet

    “Single-Family Dwelling 5 acre 150 ft. 50 ft. 40 ft. 40 ft.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Agricultural Conservation and Rural Conservation zoning districts.
      “Single-Family Dwelling 5 acre 150 ft. 50 ft. 40 ft. 40 ft.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Agricultural Conservation and Rural Conservation zoning districts.

    • The maximum height is 35 feet.
    • Agricultural structures are excepted.
    • Article 1 height exceptions also apply.

    maximum building height: 35 feet (agricultural structures and Article 1 height exceptions)

    “Thirty-five (35) feet, except for agricultural structures and height exceptions provided in Article 1.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings in the Agricultural Conservation and Rural Conservation zoning districts.
      “Thirty-five (35) feet, except for agricultural structures.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Residential or long-term occupancy of recreational vehicles and similar equipment.

    • Recreational vehicles and similar equipment may not be used for living, sleeping, or other occupancy when parked or stored on a residential lot or another location not approved for occupancy.
    • Travel-trailer parks may accommodate recreational-vehicle campers if permitted under the applicable zoning district and ordinance standards.
    • Campers and travel trailers may not reside in a travel-trailer park for more than fourteen consecutive days.

    maximum travel-trailer-park residence: <= 14 consecutive days (applies to campers, tents, and travel trailers in a permitted travel-trailer park)

    “One permanent residential unit may be permitted for the resident owner or manager; campers, their tents and travel trailers may not reside in the park for more than fourteen (14) consecutive days.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Campgrounds and travel-trailer parks regulated by the Westmoreland County Zoning Ordinance.

    • Campgrounds and travel-trailer parks must be permitted in the applicable zoning district.
    • Tent campgrounds require at least ten acres, 100-foot setbacks, State and local health compliance, potable water, communal toilet and bathing facilities, and may not allow travel trailers or other residential vehicles.
    • Travel-trailer parks require at least ten acres, 100-foot perimeter setbacks, a paved state-maintained road with 200 feet of frontage, health compliance, and sanitary facilities.

    minimum tent-campground lot size: >= 10 acres · minimum travel-trailer-park lot size: >= 10 acres · maximum travel-trailer stay: <= 14 consecutive days

    “minimum lot size requirement shall be ten (10) acres.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Individual manufactured or mobile homes used for residential purposes in Westmoreland County.

    • Individual manufactured/mobile homes for single-family residential use are permitted in the Agricultural Conservation and A-1 districts.
    • The home must be on a permanent foundation with transportation tongue and axles removed.
    • The home must meet zoning standards applicable to conventional site-built family dwellings and applicable Virginia building-code manufactured-housing regulations.
    • Temporary emergency use requires a temporary manufactured/mobile-home permit; one extension of up to six months may be granted.

    temporary permit extension: <= 6 months (one extension may be granted)

    “Individual Manufactured/Mobile Homes permitted in the Agricultural Conservation (AC) and A-1 Districts for single family residential use shall meet the following requirements: A. The manufactured/mobile home shall be on a permanent foundation with transportation tongue and axles removed;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Individual manufactured or mobile homes in Westmoreland County.
      “Individual Manufactured/Mobile Homes permitted in the Agricultural Conservation (AC) and A-1 Districts for single family residential use shall meet the following requirements: A. The manufactured/mobile home shall be on a permanent foundation with transportation tongue and axles removed;”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units in Westmoreland County zoning districts.

    • Only one accessory dwelling unit is permitted on a lot meeting the zoning district's minimum-lot requirements.
    • An accessory apartment or dwelling unit may not exceed 1,200 square feet.
    • The unit may be in an accessory building, agricultural structure, or principal structure.
    • The zoning ordinance identifies accessory dwellings as permitted residential accessory uses subject to Article 4.

    maximum accessory dwelling floor area: <= 1200 square feet · accessory dwelling units: 1 per lot (lot must meet the zoning district minimum-lot requirements)

    “No accessory apartment or dwelling unit shall exceed 1,200 square feet in floor area. B. Only one (1) accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted on a lot meeting the minimum lot requirements of the zoning district in which it is located.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units in zoning districts where the district use table permits them or allows them by special exception.
      “Accessory dwelling units may be permitted in accord with the list of permitted and special exception uses for the individual zoning districts, subject to the following additional criteria: A. No accessory apartment or dwelling unit shall exceed 1,200 square feet in floor area.”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage and private-well regulation serving Westmoreland County through the Three Rivers Health District.

    • The local Health Department's Environmental Health Division handles the permit process; state and local health requirements also apply.
    “Three Rivers Health District-Environmental Health Services”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of a new septic system in areas outside the county's identified public wastewater service areas.

    • Soil suitability must first be determined by Three Rivers Health District Environmental Health Services.
    • The county checklist identifies a septic permit or paid sewer tap for new houses, new farm buildings, and new commercial development, with the farm-building option expressly marked optional.
    “You also must get a Septic Permit from the Health Department’s Environmental Health Division.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New private septic systems outside Westmoreland County public sewer service areas.
      “Construction Permits authorize the construction”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Additions, replacements, or redevelopment involving an existing septic system.

    • The county checklist requires a septic tank pump-out receipt dated within the last five years for additions, replacements, or redevelopment.
    • For additions over 500 square feet or additions of bedrooms, a septic evaluation, reserve drainfield search, or septic upgrade may be required.

    pump-out receipt age: <= 5 years (dated within the last five years)

    “For additions/replacements/redevelopment: _____ Septic tank pump-out receipt dated within the last 5 years _____ Septic evaluation or reserve drainfield search or septic upgrade (if adding > 500 SF or bedroom(s), see staff for worksheet)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New onsite sewage systems in Westmoreland County.
      “After your system is installed and inspected, you will need an Operation Permit from the Health Department to receive a Certificate of Occupancy from the local building official.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Wastewater disposal outside Westmoreland County public wastewater service areas.

    • A private septic system is required outside the listed public wastewater service areas.
    • New septic systems require soil evaluation and a Health Department septic permit.
    “Outside of these areas, you must have a private septic system to dispose of wastewater.”
  • Well permitRequired

    New houses and new commercial development using a private well instead of a paid water tap.

    • The county permit checklist requires a Health Department well permit or paid water tap.
    • The checklist marks the requirement optional for a farm building.
    “Health Department well permit or paid water tap (optional for farm building)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Water and wastewater service for Westmoreland County properties.

    • Public wastewater serves the Town of Montross, the Route 3 corridor to Templeman's Crossroads, and the Coles Point and Washington District areas.
    • The Town of Colonial Beach operates its own sewage treatment facility.
    • Outside those areas, private septic is required.
    • Municipal water is available in various areas, including Colonial Beach and Montross.

    sewer request application fee: 35 USD per parcel (for a new sewer connection request)

    “Check Availability: Contact the Utilities Office to confirm sewer service is available at your address.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Properties in Westmoreland County public water and sewer service areas, including specified areas served by the County and the Towns of Montross and Colonial Beach.
      “application fee ($35.00) for each parcel.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Qualifying farm buildings or structures in Westmoreland County.

    • The structure must not be used for residential purposes, must be located on property where farming operations take place, and must be used primarily for listed agricultural, horticultural, floricultural, silvicultural, animal, farm-office, machinery, supply, or best-management-practice purposes.
    • Agritourism and farm restaurant exceptions may be subject to additional USBC requirements.
    • Zoning, land-disturbing, stormwater-management, electrical, and other applicable permits may still be required.
    “most farm buildings or structures are exempt”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in Westmoreland County.

    • The county publishes a Subdivision Ordinance.
    • Land subject to flooding may not be subdivided for residential occupancy unless each lot has sufficient land for a building site free from flood or other danger.
    • The ordinance requires roads, access, drainage, and other design standards.
    “Westmoreland County Subdivision Ordinance (PDF)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and subdivision-plat approval in Westmoreland County.
      “Subdivision Plat approval shall be in accord with the Subdivision Ordinance of Westmoreland County.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New houses, farm buildings, commercial development, and subdivisions in Westmoreland County.

    • The permit checklist requires a VDOT permit, private-road documentation, or use of an existing driveway culvert for specified new development.
    • For subdivisions of more than two lots, access must be from a public VDOT-system road or a road designed to meet VDOT standards and eligible for acceptance.
    • A 40-foot right-of-way is sufficient if approved by VDOT.

    right-of-way: 40 feet (if approved by VDOT)

    “VDOT permit or private road or using existing driveway culvert”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Residential development and zoning variances in Westmoreland County floodplain areas.

    • The AC general single-family dwelling lot standard specifies 10 acres not in the 100-year floodplain.
    • No variance may authorize a use not otherwise permitted in a floodplain.
    • Floodplain area may not be included in specified cluster-development density calculations.
    “No variance shall be authorized that would permit the establishment of any use not otherwise permitted in a floodplain.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    County zoning and building permit applications.

    • Applicants must pay fees under the fee schedule established by the Board of Supervisors.
    • The County may require additional fees when processing costs exceed the estimated average cost.
    • Additional fees may include staff time, research, field work, meetings, copying, printing, postage, and delivery; the County must notify the applicant at least 21 days before final action.
    • The county permit portal sends an invoice for associated fees.
    “At the time of submission of an application for any permit, review, or processing as required by this Ordinance, applicants must pay a fee to Westmoreland County in accord with the fee schedule established by the Board of Supervisors which may be modified by the Board from time to time.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Westmoreland County land-use permit fees.
      “Fee in accord with the fee schedule adopted by the County Board.”
  • Permit processPublished

    County zoning and building permit applications.

    • Zoning and building permits require plans and supporting documents.
    • Complete applications are reviewed within ten business days for approval or denial.
    • Building and zoning permits may be submitted, reviewed, and approved concurrently, but no building permit may issue before receipt of a zoning permit.
    • Applications may be submitted through the county's online permit portal, while large or sealed-plan projects may require in-person submission.

    review period: 10 business days (after the application is deemed complete) · permit validity: 1 year (building and zoning permits)

    “Permit applications may be submitted online at Westmoreland County's Citizens' Permit Portal.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County building and zoning permit applications.
      “Permit applications may be submitted online”

Virginia rules that apply here

  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction of new buildings, structures, additions, maintenance, repairs, renovations, and changes of use throughout Virginia, including Westmoreland County.
      “The Board of Housing and Community Development adopts and amends the USBC.”
    • Adopted — Construction, additions, maintenance, repairs, renovation, and changes of use in Westmoreland County.
      “The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) contains the building regulations that must be complied with when constructing a new building, structure, or an addition to an existing building.”
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Construction of a dwelling of 400 square feet or less, including a tiny home in Westmoreland County, under Virginia’s statewide residential-code framework.

    • Appendix AQ may be used only as an alternative to the other code requirements; the dwelling must still comply with the applicable Virginia code provisions.
    • The source addresses building-code compliance and does not establish county zoning approval, placement rights, building-permit exemptions, septic approval, utility availability, or occupancy approval.
    • Westmoreland County zoning, building-permit, wastewater, floodplain, and other applicable requirements may still apply.

    maximum dwelling floor area for Appendix AQ alternative: <= 400 square feet (The rule states that Appendix AQ may be used as an alternative to the requirements of the code.)

    “R336.1 General. Appendix AQ may be used as an alternative to the requirements of this code where a dwelling is 400 square feet (37 m²) or less in floor area.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Westmoreland County zoning districts.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage requirements in Westmoreland County zoning districts.

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 Westmoreland 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 Westmoreland County, Virginia

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

Westmoreland County scores 63/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use and about 37,494 people within 15 miles.

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

Westmoreland County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Virginia Department of Health, Three Rivers Health District (Environmental Health). 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.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Westmoreland County is limited to specific cases: Residential or long-term occupancy of recreational vehicles and similar equipment. Recreational vehicles and similar equipment may not be used for living, sleeping, or other occupancy when parked or stored on a residential lot or another location not approved for occupancy. Travel-trailer parks may accommodate recreational-vehicle campers if permitted under the applicable zoning district and ordinance standards. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Westmoreland County, Virginia?

Land in Westmoreland County runs about $5,735 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Westmoreland County?

Westmoreland County gets about 45.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.9% of years. On water rights, Westmoreland 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 Westmoreland County?

A typical private-land location has about 37,494 people within 15 miles and 12,232,669 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Westmoreland compares in Virginia

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