The Building Inspections Division of the Department of Community Development pursues quick and efficient review of plans and inspections for fair interpretation and enforcement of all State-adopted building codes and associated regulations, while educating the public and promoting safety.
A building permit is required for any new construction, alterations, additions, demolitions, accessory buildings, swimming pools, and/or other types of construction, which will improve or upgrade any property in the City of Harrisonburg. Trade permits are required for all electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. Trade permits are required in addition to building permits for most construction activities.
- How to Apply for a Permit
Online: Submit applications, track and pay for permits online via the LAMA Permit Portal. If you are a contractor and need a registration code, call the Department of Community Development at 540-432-7700 or email permits@harrisonburgva.gov. See the LAMA Guide for more information.
Via email: Fillable PDFs are available for all permit types are available on the Permit Directory. Permit applications may be emailed to permits@harrisonburgva.gov.
In person: Visit us at Community Development, 409 S Main St, 2nd Floor, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.
See the Permit Directory for all permits administered by Community Development.
- Contractor Information
A list of approved contractors is available on the LAMA Permit Portal. The list is provided for informational purposes only, and contains contractors with current credentials for the contractor type in the LAMA permitting system. Community Development does not endorse any contractor, nor do we attest to the capability or competency of any contractor listed.
To access the contractor list:
- Click on Open Data on the lower right-hand corner.
- Below the icon for Active Contractors click on View or Download.
The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupation Regulation (DPOR) provides consumers with information on what to look out for in hiring a contractor and how to verify contractor licenses.
Contractors must have a DPOR license specific to their contracting specialty (Commercial/Residential Building Contractor, Plumbing, Mechanical, etc.) For information on becoming a DPOR licensed contractor, visit the DPOR website.
Contractors must also have a City of Harrisonburg Business License. Contact the Commissioner of the Revenue at 540-432-7704 for information on obtaining a business license.
Contact the Building Inspections Division.