When is a building permit required?

Per Section 108.1 of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), a building permit is required in the following instances:

• Changing the use of a structure, either within the same use group or to a different use group, when the new use requires greater degrees of structural strength, fire protection, exit facilities, ventilation or sanitary provisions

• Removing or disturbing any asbestos or lead-containing materials during demolition, alteration, renovation of or additions to structures

• Moving a lot line that affects an existing structure’s continued compliance with the building regulations under which it was built

• Construction or demolition of a building or structure. Installations or alterations involving:
  
  

  (i) the removal or addition of any wall, partition or potion thereof,

  (ii) any structural component,

  (iii) the repair or replacement of any required component of a fire or smoke related assembly,

  (iv) the alteration of any required means of egress system, (v) water supply distribution system,

  (vi) electric wiring,

  (vii) fire protection system, mechanical systems, or fuel supply systems, or

  (viii) any equipment regulated by the USBC

Are there projects that are exempt from applying for a permit?

•  Yes, Section 108.2 of the USBC does allow exemptions from applying for a permit. However, the homeowner or contractor completing the project shall still comply with the requirements of the code. Please contact the Building Services Division about what projects may be exempt from permits

Permit application checklist

• In addition to your permit application, please include the following:

SITE SKETCH INFORMATION: Please use the following checklist to provide a detailed site sketch of the entire property. Plans shall be of adequate size and scale allowing for satisfactory review. Permits may be issued only when sufficient information is given to show that the proposed work will comply with all building and zoning regulations. Required setbacks for each zoning district can be found in Staunton City Code, Title 18.

❑ All property lines and adjacent streets and alleys

❑ All setback lines

❑ All existing structures

❑ All proposed structures to include building footprints, decks, porches, patios, stoops, bay windows, chimneys, mechanical equipment, stairs, sidewalks, retaining walls.

❑ Driveways and all parking areas

❑ All structure sizes and measurements. Please show distance from structures to property lines and distances between all structures.

BUILDING PLANS: If you are submitting paper plans to the office for review, one copy of buildings plans are required. If you have a digital set, you will need to email to permits@fileshare.ci.staunton.va.us. You must include the project address in the subject line of the email.

Please use the following checklist to provide detailed building plans of the entire project.

❑ Plans shall be of adequate size and scale allowing for satisfactory review but in no case should plans exceed 24” x 36”.

❑ Complete scope of work. If work is to be completed in phases, please clearly indicate phases and time frame for completion.

❑ Complete floor plan with room labels and dimensions. For interior alterations and additions, please show existing and proposed floor plans.

❑ Detailed wall section.

❑ Front and side elevation views.

❑ Foundation plan – please include an overview plan of foundation or footings.

❑ Some commercial plans will require prepared drawings from an architect and engineer

UTILITES CONNECTIONS: – City Engineer’s Office 540.332.3862

An application for Water and Sewer Connection and Facility Fees for any new connections must be submitted to the City Engineer’s Office to determine availability of services. This must be completed prior to issuance of any building permits.

LAND DISTURBING PERMITS: – Environmental Programs Division 540.332.3858

Construction of a Single-Family Home or Sites under 10,000 Sq Ft:

1. An Agreement in Lieu of a Plan must be completed and signed by the property owner and include payment of fee and submission of surety.
2. A pre-construction meeting must be held to discuss E&S controls required for your site.
3. A City E&S/VSMP inspector must make a site visit and review and approve your SWPPP (where applicable) and approve the initial controls E & S controls installed at your site.

Agreement In Lieu Of A Plan Fee: $250 and a $2,500 surety

DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE PERMIT – City Engineer’s Office  540.332.3858

An application is required for the construction of a driveway across a sidewalk, curb & gutter, or across that portion of the street between the pavement and the property line. This approval is authorized from the office of the City Engineer only upon application by the property owner. The entire expense falls on the property owner who must make his own arrangements for the construction authorized, which must be done in accordance with the City’s specifications and under the supervision of the Engineering Division. 

 PROPERTY TAX– City Treasurer’s Office 540.332.3833

All real estate property taxes must be paid prior to issuance of a building permit.

 HISTORIC DISTRICT REVIEW – If the property is located in a historic district, a Certificate of Appropriateness may be required before issuance of a Building Permit. Historic District Regulations.

 TRADE PERMITS– Separate permits are required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and gas.

 How do I apply for a permit?

• All applicants are encouraged to process their request through the online permitting portal. The applicant will fill in project details and upload their plans (pdf only) digitally.  The plans will be processed electronically.  If the submittal requires a re-submit of the plans due to more information being required, the applicant will be notified by email.  Once the permit has been approved, the applicant will receive the permit by email.  At that time, inspections can be requested through the online portal.  There are minimum inspections required as listed on the building permit. Please email permits@ci.staunton.va.us for any permit questions.

Quick Links:

• Apply Online
• Building Permit Information