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.

Building Permit Application and Review Process

Building Permits applications are reviewed, and, if approved, issued by City staff. No work may begin until the permit is issued. Additional permits, such as trade permits, may be required prior to beginning the work.

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: Permit forms are available below. 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, or call 540-432-7700.

If you have any questions or need further information, please call 540-432-7700 or email us at permits@harrisonburgva.gov. 

Permit Forms - English & Spanish

[76KB] Building Permit Application Checklist

[190KB] Asbestos Questionnaire

An Asbestos Abatement permit is now required for any asbestos removal work. You may apply for an Asbestos Abatement permit on the LAMA Permit Portal or by submitting the Asbestos Abatement permit application and associated documents to permits@harrisonburgva.gov. 

[360KB] Building Permit Application

[143KB] Building Permit Impervious Square Footage Form

[107KB] Lista De Control De Solicitud De Permiso De Construccion 

[284KB] Solicitud - Permiso de Construcción

[61KB] Cuestionario de Asbesto

Toda obra de eliminación de asbesto/amianto requiere un permiso de eliminación de asbesto. Puede solicitar un permiso por internet o puede enviar el formulario para el Permiso de Eliminación de Asbesto a permits@harrisonburgva.gov.

[91KB] Formulario Superficies Impermeables

Before Submitting a Building Permit

Design Criteria

The City of Harrisonburg enforces the

Roof live load is 30 pounds per square foot minimum, non-reduced.

Roof dead load is 10 pounds per square foot, non-reduced.

Note: These are minimum design loads.  Loads exceeding these minimums shall require a registered design professional to address the actual loads.

Ultimate wind speed is 115 mph, frost depth is 24 inches, seismic category is B, and the ground snow load is 42.5 pounds per square foot.

Submitting a Permit without a Contractor

The Code of Virginia requires that the construction, removal, repair, or improvement of any building be performed by a licensed contractor. However, in certain circumstances, an owner can perform the construction, removal, repair, or improvement of a building. Please see the guidance provide in the linked document for more information.

[99KB] DIY - Information for owners acting as their own contractors

Second Kitchen Installations

The City of Harrisonburg Zoning Ordinance does not prohibit the installation of a secondary kitchen within a single-family dwelling; it does, however, limit the use of the secondary kitchen. A second kitchen cannot be rented or leased as part of a second dwelling unit or efficiency apartment within the dwelling. The second kitchen shall only be used by a member of the family residing at the property and the dwelling shall remain accessible and free flowing, throughout; not enclosed as a separate unit. It is understood that installation of a second kitchen that is occupied and used as a second dwelling unit or efficiency apartment within the structure is a violation of the Zoning ordinance and punishable as a misdemeanor. Applicants interested in installing a second kitchen must complete an affidavit acknowledging that that the second kitchen is only for the use and convenience of the members of the family residing at the property.

[280KB] Affidavit for the Installation of a Second Kitchen within a Single-Family Dwelling

[188KB] Declaración jurada para instalar una segunda cocina en una vivienda unifamiliar

Building Permit Application Checklist

Pre-approvals from City departments are required. A completed Building Permit Application Checklist must be submitted with each Building Permit Application. Building application forms are linked above.

Asbestos Questionnaire

The Asbestos Questionnaire is required to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Code of Virginia and the most recently adopted edition of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. It must be completed for all permit applications for existing buildings and structures, such as building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, and sign permits. It is not required for new free-standing buildings or structures.

If applicable, a copy of the Certificate of Asbestos Inspection.  All structures built prior to January 1, 1985, must submit an asbestos inspection certificate for buildings being renovated or demolished.  For exemptions, view the Virginia Construction Code, Part 1 Section 110.3. For information regarding asbestos abatement please visit Asbestos Abatement Permit.

Submitting a Building Permit

Required Information on Building Permit Application

  1. The owner's complete name, present mailing address, and phone number.
  2. The contractor's complete name, present mailing address, phone number, copy of state class "A", "B", or "C" contractor's registration, and city business license number.
  3. The appropriate fee, based on total value- including labor and materials for building, plumbing electrical and mechanical work. Checks should be made payable to the City of Harrisonburg.

An Impervious Square Footage Form is required for all building and demolition permits.

[112KB] Calculating Square Footage

Once an application has been submitted, it is forwarded to the Planning, Zoning and Engineering Divisions for review for compliance with zoning requirements and any site plans issues. It is then returned to the Building Inspections Division for final review, approval and issuance of the building permit.

Site Plan

The site plan must include:

  1. A north indicator.
  2. The actual dimensions of the lot, drawn to a scale of 1"=20' and drawn to the actual bearings of the lot.
  3. The actual location and dimensions of any existing structures on the lot.
  4. The actual location and dimensions of any structures being erected.
  5. The actual dimensional front, side, and rear yard setbacks from the lot lines to the structure, including but not limited to covered porches, decks, stairwells, etc. Information on minimum setback requirements are available in the City's Zoning Ordinance. If questions, contact the Planning & Zoning Division at 540-432-7700.
  6. The actual square footage of the lot. 
  7. All required off-street parking. See Zoning Ordinance Section 10-3-30, Off-Street Parking for requirements. If questions, contact the Planning & Zoning Division at 540-432-7700.
  8. Site Plan Example

Building Plans

[58KB] Plans Flow Chart

  1. A floor plan for each floor drawn to 1/4" scale. [182 KB] Floor Plan Requirements
  2. A typical wall or specific wall section drawn to scale. [158KB] Typical Wall Section, [654KB] Typical Wall Bracing, [99KB] Typical Wall Interior
  3. At least two elevations of the structure drawn to scale. [93KB] Typical Elevation Plan
  4. All drawings shall show the overall dimensions of the structure, the internal dimensions of each room located within the structure, and the dimensional height of the structure.
  5. All rooms on the floor plans shall be labeled as to their use, e.g., bedroom, kitchen, etc.
  6. All bathrooms and kitchens shall show the location of all fixtures and appliances to be installed.
  7. All doors, windows, and stairways shall be sized on the drawings.

Seal Required

An architect's and/or engineer's seal is required on all drawings for assembly, educational, high hazard, institutional, apartment, hotel-motel and dormitory uses regardless of size. Other uses not listed above may require an architect's and/or engineer's seal depending on the square footage and/or height of the structure.

Supplemental Plans

Supplemental plans may be required. Such supplemental plans would include, but not be limited to: Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fire Sprinkler Systems, and other supplemental plans as may be deemed necessary by the Building Inspection Office.

[142KB] Foundation Plan

[261KB] Truss Drawing Details

[180KB] Truss Layout

[166KB] Engineered Wood Products

Permit Issuance

Posting of Permit

The building permit shall be displayed on the outside of the building or premises, where it is plainly visible from the street, and shall not be removed until the building or renovation is complete and ready for occupancy.

Inspection Information

Required inspections:

  1. Building: Footers, slab, foundation, framing, insulation, drywall, chimney, firewall, fire separation wall, final and others as necessary.
  2. Plumbing: Under slab, rough-in, service lines, final and others as necessary
  3. Electrical: Under slab, rough-in, final and others as necessary
  4. Mechanical: Under slab, rough-in, gas lines, gas fireplaces or logs, final and others as necessary

All listed inspections shall be scheduled by the contractor, owner, or owner's authorized agent. The permit number, address, and type of inspection to be made must be given to the Permit Technician in order to schedule an inspection. 

Certificate of Occupancy

Once the final building inspection has been completed and approved, a Certificate of Occupancy shall be issued prior to any occupancy.

Additional Permits

  1. In addition to the building permit, separate permits are required for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work.
  2. For commercial work, a sign permit is required for the installation of any sign. (See procedure for obtaining a sign permit.)
  3. If desiring to do so, the owner may do the work if the proper permit has been obtained, and all required inspections are requested and performed.
  4. When submitting supplemental drawings for fire suppression systems, four (4) sets of drawings and four (4) sets of calculations are required.

Demolition, electrical, fire suppression system, mechanical, plumbing, roofing, and other permits related to construction can be found on the Permit Directory page. 

A full list of fees can be found on the Fees Directory page.

 

Building Permit Types

The Building Permit forms can be used for most building permit types; however, there are different requirements for different circumstances. Unless otherwise noted, use the Building Permit forms listed above.

Building Permits (New Buildings, Additions, Alterations)

A building permit is required for any new construction, alterations, additions, and/or other types of construction, which will improve or upgrade any property in the City of Harrisonburg.

Accessory Structures (Sheds, Decks, Gazebos, etc.)

Accessory Structures and Additional Permit Information
Accessory structures include any structures on the property other than the principal structure. This includes decks, sheds, detached garages, gazebos, pools, and pool fences, among others. Not all accessory structures require a building permit, however, all accessory structures must comply with applicable zoning requirements. 

General Guidelines

Zoning Requirements

Decks:

  • Decks (uncovered) located in the rear or side yard shall be at least five (5) feet from adjoining side and rear property lines.
  • Decks (uncovered) located in the front yard shall project no further than 1/3 of the front setback.

Accessory buildings for residential properties:

  • Must be located in the rear of the property.
  • Shall be at least five (5) feet from adjoining side and rear property lines.
  • Shall not occupy more than 30% of the required rear yard.

For additional information about zoning, visit https://www.harrisonburgva.gov/zoning or call 540-432-7700.

Building Codes Requirements

Accessory structures building code information [130KB]

Decks: 

New decks or replacement or modification of the support structure of decks require a permit.

Shed:

Sheds that are 257 square feet or larger, have more than one floor or will be used for car storage require a permit. See accessory structure building code information above.

Asbestos Abatement

When applying for a building permit for remodel/renovation/alteration of a structure, an Asbestos Questionnaire must be included with the application documents. If the asbestos questionnaire indicates that an asbestos inspection is required, then a Certificate of Asbestos Inspection must be included with the application documents. The asbestos inspection is required to cover only the work area included in the building permit application. See the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry for more information on Asbestos programs. All structures built prior to January 1, 1985 must submit an asbestos certificate for buildings being renovated or demolished. For exemptions, view the Virginia Construction Code, Part 1 Section 110.3.

An Asbestos Abatement permit is now required for any asbestos removal work.

Only a DPOR licensed asbestos contractor may apply for an Asbestos Abatement permit.

[191KB] Asbestos Questionnaire

[136KB] Asbestos Abatement Permit

Demolition

A demolition permit is required for any demolition or partial demolition of any building or structure which will improve or upgrade any property owned in the City of Harrisonburg. Unless applying via the permit portal, please remember to accompany the demolition permit with the Building Permit Impervious Square Footage Form.

[284KB] Demolition Permit Application

[23KB] Building Permit Impervious Square Footage Form

Required Information

To obtain a demolition permit, the following information is required at the time of application:

  1. A site plan with the information as listed under the "Required Site Plan" section.
  2. The owner's complete name, present mailing address and phone number.
  3. The contractor's complete name, present mailing address, phone number, copy of the state class "A", "B", or "C" contractor's registration number, and city business license number.
  4. A copy of a written release from all utility companies stating that such utilities to the building or structures being demolished have been properly terminated.
  5. If applicable, a copy of the Certificate of Asbestos Inspection.
  6. A copy of all written notices to the owner(s) of the properties adjoining the projected demolition site.
  7. The appropriate fee with check made payable to the City of Harrisonburg.

Note: Depending on the complexity of the demolition, all the required information, the required site plan, and the approval of the Department of Public Works may not be requested for permit application.

Required Site Plan

A site plan showing the following shall be required for any demolition permit:

  1. A north indicator.
  2. The actual dimensions of the lot or lots drawn to a scale of 1" = 20' and drawn to the actual bearings of the lot(s).
  3. The actual location of all buildings or structures on the property in relation to the property lines.
  4. The actual location of the building(s) or structure(s) to be demolished.

Application Approval

The application will be reviewed in the Building Inspection Office and assuming there are not any problems, insufficient information or drawings, the permit will be issued. The permit is not valid until the permit fee has been paid and the permit placard is posted on the job site.

Approval by Department of Public Works

When necessary to infringe on a public right-of-way to demolish a building or structure, the Department of Public Works shall be notified in writing well in advance to coordinate any traffic pattern changes or other right-of-way infringements.

Posting of Permit

The demolition permit shall be displayed on the site where it is plainly visible from the street and shall not be removed until demolition is completed.

Required Inspection

Upon completion of demolition, the Building Inspection Office shall be notified, and an inspection shall be made on site to assure all debris has been removed and the site is properly filled and safe.

Permit Voided

If work has not commenced within or is suspended for a period of six months from the issue date, the permit is invalid and voided.

Occupant Load Certificate

Occupant Load Certificates, also known as seating charts, are required for assembly uses such as restaurants, nightclubs, community centers, schools, churches, and any other structure. Occupant Load Certificates are also required when there is a change in a seating layout, building use, building addition or alteration, etc. Please contact the Building Inspections Division at 540-432-7700 to determine whether an Occupant Load Certificate is required.

Building Codes Requirements

Occupant Load Certificates are issued in accordance with the provisions of the 2018 Virginia Construction Code (VCC) and the Code of Virginia. An occupancy layout produced by a registered design professional (RDP) is required, unless exempted as outlined in Sections 54.1-401, 54.1-402 or 54.1-402.1 of the Code of Virginia.

Note: An Occupant Load certificate is only required when the final occupant load is 50 or greater.

Roofing Permit

A roofing permit is required for all roofing work. Exception: A permit is not required to replace shingles on single-family homes, duplexes, or town homes.

Roofing Permit Application [535KB]

Tent Permit

A tent is any structure, enclosure or shelter which is constructed of canvas or pliable material supported in any manner except by air or the contents it protects.

When a permit is needed? 

Tents or air-supported structures, or both, that cover an area of 900 square feet or less, including within that area all connecting areas or spaces with a common means of egress or entrance, provided such tents or structures have an occupant load of 50 or less persons are exempt from obtaining a permit from the building division, however, must still be code compliant for wind and snow load applications. 

What information is required?

A Site Plan is required to be submitted with each building permit application. A Site Plan shall include:

  1. The location and dimensions of all buildings presently on the site drawn to a scale of 1" = 20'.
  2. The location of the tent in relation to the existing buildings and property lines.
  3. A directional arrow indicating North.
  4. The measured distances from each property line(s) and existing building(s), in feet, to the edges of the tent.
  5. The manufacturer's installation instructions with anchoring requirements.
  6. Proper flame retardant certification in compliance with NFPA 701.

Information required on application

The owner's complete name, present mailing address, and telephone number.

  1. The contractor's complete name, present mailing address, telephone number, copy of state class "A", "B", or "C" contractor's registration, and city business license number.
  2. The appropriate fee, based on the total value - including labor and materials for building, plumbing and electrical work. Checks shall be made payable to the City of Harrisonburg.

Application Processing

Once an application has been submitted, it is forwarded to the planning and zoning division for review for zoning requirements. It is then returned to the building inspections division for final review, approval and issuance of the building permit.  Please allow at least seven days for permit processing time.

Inspection Information

Following is a list of required inspections:

  1. Building: final erection, anchoring, fire department inspection, and others as necessary.
  2. Plumbing: as necessary
  3. Electrical: as necessary
  4. Mechanical: as necessary

Additional Notes

In addition to the building permit, if occupant load exceeds 50 persons, an engineer's stamped design, emergency lighting, exit signs, and seating plan may be required.  Verify with the building plan reviewer prior to application. 

Swimming Pools

General Requirements

Definition:

A fence or barrier must enclose all swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas.  Contact the building inspection division for height and size requirements of the fence or barrier.

Pools that are less than 150 square feet of surface area, contain less than 5000 gallons and do not have the capacity for more than 24 inches of water depth do not require permits. This exemption from a permit does not eliminate the barrier requirement.

Questions regarding swimming pools can be answered by the Community Development Building Inspections Division at 540-432-7700.

What permits are needed?

  1. A building permit is required for every swimming pool meeting the above criteria installed in the City of Harrisonburg.
  2. An electrical permit is required for most pools with specific requirements for electrical installations in and around swimming pools.
  3. A plumbing permit may be required if the pool is to be drained or backwashed. It is required to drain a swimming pool and backwash into the sanitary sewer.

What information is required?

  1. A Site Plan is required to be submitted with each building permit application. A Site Plan shall include:
  • The location and dimensions of all buildings presently on the site drawn to a scale of 1" = 20'.
  • The location of the pool in relation to the existing buildings.
  • A directional arrow indicating North.
  • The measured distance from each property line (in feet) to the edges of the pool.
  • All easements contained within the lot or which cross the lot at any location.

Information required on application:

  1. The owner's complete name, present mailing address, and telephone number.
  2. The contractor's complete name, present mailing address, telephone number, copy of state class "A", "B", or "C" contractor's registration, and city business license number.
  3. The appropriate fee, based on the total value - including labor and materials for building, plumbing and electrical work. Checks shall be made payable to the City of Harrisonburg.

Application Processing

Once an application has been submitted, it is forwarded to the planning and zoning division for review for zoning requirements. It is then returned to the building inspections division for final review, approval and issuance of the building permit.

Basic Inspections

Building: footers for decking, and slab (before poured), and final (after all other inspections passed and the barrier or fencing [minimum of 48 inches high] is in place).

Electrical: pool bonding, rough-in (for receptacles, lighting, pool motors, panelboards), and final (after all receptacles, lighting, and equipment are in place and ready for operation).

Plumbing: slab (before any piping is covered), service (where being connected to sewer), and final (ready for operation).

Posting of Permits

The building, electrical, and plumbing permits shall be displayed on the outside of the building or premises where it is plainly visible from the street, and shall not be removed until all work on the swimming pool is completed, inspected, and approved.

Codes in Effect

Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, most current edition as adopted by the state.

Special Electrical Requirements

There are many specialized electrical requirements for swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas. Because they involve the presence of water, electricity, and people who may come in contact with both, these requirements are critical for the safety of the user. Electrical requirements for swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas vary greatly depending on type, location, and equipment selected for the use with the pool. The basic information provided in the pamphlet is NOT to be construed as being applicable to all pools, hot tubs, or spas, nor is it to be construed as all the information required for a single pool.

  1. Receptacles shall be located at least ten (10) feet from the inside walls of the pool.
  2. All receptacles shall be ground-fault-circuit-interrupter protected if installed between ten (10) and twenty (20) feet from the inside walls of the pool.
  3. Lighting fixtures, lighting outlets, and ceiling fans shall not be installed over the pool or over the area extending five (5) feet horizontally from the inside walls of the pool.
  4. Switching devices shall be located over the pool or over the area extending horizontally ten (10) feet from the inside walls of the pool.
  5. Electrical conductors shall not be located over the pool or over the area extending horizontally ten (10) feet from the inside walls of the pool.
  6. Underground electrical wiring shall not be located under the pool or within the area extending five (5) feet horizontally from the inside walls of the pool.
  7. Underwater lighting fixtures shall be protected by a ground-fault-circuit-interrupter.
  8. A bonding grid system shall be installed with all parts interconnected by means of a number 8 awg solid copper conductor.
  9. The minimum size equipment-grounding conductor permitted for pool lighting, motors, and panelboards is an insulated number 12 awg copper.
  10. In general, the wiring methods permitted are rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, and rigid non-metallic conduit.

Questions regarding building permits can be answered by the Building Inspections Division at 540-432-7700.

Related Pages
Community Development