It is one of the first questions we get: do I need a permit for this? In Virginia, the short answer is most garages, shops and larger buildings do, and the only way to be sure is to check with your county. Here is what to know before you call them.
Who decides
Virginia uses the Uniform Statewide Building Code, but your county or city building office enforces it and handles the permit. Zoning is separate. Even a building that does not need a building permit can still have setback, size or land-use rules from the zoning office.
Small sheds vs. real buildings
The statewide code exempts some small detached accessory structures, like tool and storage sheds, from a building permit when they are under a certain size. Garages, workshops, barndominium shells and most of what we install are well past that size, so plan on a permit unless your county tells you otherwise. Farm buildings used for agriculture are often handled differently, so ask about that too if it applies.
What the county usually wants
- A simple site plan showing where the building goes and how far it sits from property lines, the house and any septic.
- The building’s engineered drawings, showing wind and snow load ratings.
- Foundation details: footer size and depth, and slab thickness.
- The permit fee, which varies by county and building size.
How certified drawings help
Our buildings come with engineered drawings certified for your county’s wind and snow loads. That is usually the piece that holds up a permit, and we can get it to you early so you are not waiting on paperwork.
Tips that save time
- Call the county before you order and ask: “What do I need to permit a [size] metal garage at my address?”
- Ask about setbacks so you know exactly where the building can sit.
- Tell us what the county said. We will match the foundation to their requirements.
Every county is different and rules change, so treat this as a starting point, not legal advice. We work across southwest Virginia, North Carolina and 28 states, and we are happy to help you figure out what your county needs.
Want a straight answer for your site? Call or text 276-235-1191 or send us a quote request. Photos of the spot help a lot.
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