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1. What is a building permit?

A building permit is an authorization to begin construction, alteration, or demolition of any residential, commercial, or industrial structure required by the Uniform Statewide Building Code.

2. Where can I obtain a building permit?

You may apply for a permit at Codes Compliance:  

Williamsburg Municipal Building
401 Lafayette Street
Williamsburg, VA, 23185-3617

3. What do I need to obtain a building permit?

You should provide the following information to complete the building permit application:

1. Address of the property
2. Contractor and State and Local Contractor License information
3. Owner information
4. Mechanics’ Lien Agent information

In addition to completing a building permit application, you will need to provide the following:

1. Plans for the structure (2 sets) meeting specifications required by Codes Compliance and the Uniform Statewide Building Code.  Plans must include the preparer’s name, address, and telephone number.
2. An approved site plan meeting the city’s zoning ordinance regulations.
3. Soil report (1 copy) relating the shrink-swell possibilities for the property, when required.
4. Land Disturbance Permit and Right-of-Way Permit applications, when applicable.
5. Permits may be issued to owners or agents of owners (commonly, the "contractor" acts as the "agent"). If someone other than a contractor receives a permit, they must sign an affidavit regarding licensure as a contractor.

4. Is there a permit fee?

Yes, the fee is based on a schedule adopted by the City Council.  These permit fees along with sewer and water fees, if applicable, must be paid at the time of permit issuance.

5. How long will it take to process an application?

If you have submitted the required information, it will take three to five business days to review plans and issue plan review comments.  If plans meet code requirements, a permit is issued if other requirements are met.

6. How long are the permits valid?

Permits are valid as long as work proceeds but become void if no work is accomplished during any six-month period.

7. What if the permit expires?

You may request an extension prior to expiration.  If not, must reapply and pay the applicable fees.

8. What should I do when the work is completed?

Upon completion of the work, request a final inspection by calling Codes Compliance at 757-220-6136.  When the work passes the final inspection, request a certificate of use and occupancy.

The certificate of use and occupancy is an essential step in the process.  There may be considerations unrelated to the house construction in a development, such as sewer, water, and roads, which prevent the issuance of a certificate of use and occupancy even though the "building" is complete.

It is illegal to use or occupy any structure without a certificate of use and occupancy.