PlainPermit

Do I need a permit for a shed in Virginia Beach, VA?

Short answer: It depends on the details for a shed in Virginia Beach, VA (for example: Over 256 sq ft: permit).

Last verified: · Confidence: high · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
Depends on your project Confidence: high

No building permit for a one-story shed or playhouse up to 256 sq ft. Larger sheds need one.

What changes the answer

Cost

Fee not extracted; see Virginia Beach Permits & Inspections. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://planning.virginiabeach.gov/permits/building/residential-building-permits

Where to apply

City of Virginia Beach Permits & Inspections (online)

Permitting authority: City of Virginia Beach Planning Department, Permits & Inspections. Virginia uses a statewide building code (USBC); the City enforces it. Properties in the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area, flood zones or the Southern Rivers Watershed may need environmental approvals first. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“2. One story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided the building area does not exceed 256 square feet”

Source: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title13/agency5/chapter63/section80/

“Detached structures (gazebos, sheds greater than 256 square feet, storage buildings, trellises, etc.)”

Source: https://planning.virginiabeach.gov/permits/building/residential-building-permits

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: high

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