If you’re building or renovating a structure in Virginia Beach, you’ll most likely need a building permit before your contractor starts on the project. A building permit is a document issued by the local government, approving a new construction, building alteration, or building addition. While this sounds straightforward, understanding the process and which type of permit is needed can be confusing, especially for those who don’t work in construction.
This guide outlines what type of Virginia Beach Building permit you need based on project type and how to apply for a permit online.
Residential vs Commercial Virginia Beach Building Permits
There are two main types of permits in Virginia Beach: commercial and residential. If your building will be used as a single-family home, it falls under the residential category. In this case, you want to work with a contractor who specializes in residential buildings and apply for a residential permit.
If a building or structure will be used for business, a commercial permit is needed. Commercial buildings include, but are not limited to, storefronts, restaurants, pet salons, bookstores, healthcare facilities, assisted living homes, multi family houses, and condo complexes. If a business operates out of a building or multiple families live in a structure and pay rent, it’s safe to assume a commercial permit is needed.
When a Commercial Building Permit is Needed
Sometimes, you as a property owner can make small alterations to a building without needing a Virginia Beach building permit. These small changes include:
- Adding a new layer of paint
- Replacing hardwood floors
- Adding or replacing carpet
- Changing a door or window, so long as the swap doesn’t alter the building’s structure
- Replacing paneling or drywall
However, if any of these changes alter the building structure, they need a Virginia Beach building permit. Because of the grey area around what changes do and don’t need a permit, it’s also best to work with a trusted contractor who can help you navigate the process.
If you do need a Virginia Beach building permit, there are three kinds of commercial ones. Let’s take a closer look at each, including application requirements. There are some additional permits for plumbing, water supply, and other utilities, and a skilled contractor will know the needed submittals and how the building code of Virginia applies to these areas.
New Commercial Construction
When you build a new commercial construction, such as a shop or healthcare facility, you need to apply for a new commercial construction permit. To apply, the following documentation is needed:
- Paid public utility receipts
- 2 copies of the site plan, approved by the Zoning Office and the Development Services Center
- The contractor’s information, including license type, state registration number, and address
- Zoning Division approval for the business location
- Cost of construction
- Construction size in square feet
- Construction type and use group
While this permit is often for new storefronts and commercial buildings, other structures may require this type too, including gazebos, sheds greater than 256 feet, portable buildings, and mobile homes used for commercial purposes. In-ground pools, hot tubs, and swimming pools for commercial use also fall under this permit.
Commercial Additions
Anytime you add onto a commercial building, you need this type of Virginia Beach building permit. Adding a garage, room, or screened-in porch all count as commercial additions.
To apply for this type of permit, you and your contractor must gather:
- 2 copies of the site plan, approved by the Zoning Office and the Development Services Center
- Paid public utility receipts
- The contractor’s information and license type
- Cost of construction
- Construction type and use group
Depending on the building’s age and use, there may be additional information needed for your application, which is why it’s important to work with a commercial contractor who understands Virginia Beach building permits.
Commercial Alterations
The Virginia Beach government provides some examples of commercial alterations on their website, including:
- Repairs to foundation
- Moving walls
- Structural changes
- Changing office layouts
Anytime you are renovating in a way that alters the structure of a building, you need a commercial alterations permit. For a better idea of what constitutes as a commercial alteration, check out our work for McCormick Law, Jump Trampoline Park, and Pursuit.
To apply for this specific type of Virginia Beach building permit, general information applicants must submit includes:
- Floor plans and plan review
- Receipts showing public utility fees have been paid
- Zoning approval for your business
- A building permit application with a contractor’s license type
- Cost of construction
- Construction type and use group
Depending on the building’s age and use, additional requirements, such as a health inspection, may be needed to apply for a Virginia Beach building permit.
Submitting the Application
In Virginia Beach, almost all building permits must be submitted through their online portal. Some small plans and building inspections can be processed in person at their office (2875 Sabre St., Suite 500), but they must meet the guidelines outlined here.
Before applying, work with your contractor to gather all necessary materials. Often, your contractor will submit the permit application for you, but make sure this is the case before you start working with a contractor.
There are also some fees to pay for each permit type. For new commercial buildings and alterations, the fee is $50.00 plus $8.00 for every 100 square feet. If the building isn’t heated, the cost drops to $4.00 per 100 square feet. Commercial alterations cost $50.00 plus $5.00 for every 100 square feet.
Additional fees and a 2% tax levy often apply, making it tricky to determine the price of a permit or inspection. For a full breakdown of Virginia Beach building permit fees, check out the up-to-date fee information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can I build without a permit in Virginia?
You need a building permit for almost all structures in Virginia. The one exception is one-story detached structures that are less than 256 square feet. These structures must also not be classified as Group F-1 or H occupancy. Even though these buildings don’t often require the issuance of a permit,, the Virginia government still recommends consulting local officials before building.
Do you need a permit to renovate a bathroom in Virginia?
All interior alterations, including bathroom renovations, require a permit in Virginia. There are usually different permit types for renovating a bathroom in a commercial space and a residential space. For example, renovating a bathroom in an office or lobby will require a different permit than renovating one in a single family home. Permit requirements and type are determined by your local government, not the state of Virginia.
What requires a building permit in Virginia Beach?
If Virginia Beach, almost all construction types require a permit. A build out, renovation, or remodeling project that alters a commercial or residential structure needs a permit. If a project only produces minor changes, such as a different paint color, a permit is not usually needed. To ensure you have any necessary permits, consult with a licensed contractor before starting your project.
