In our century of building in Alexandria, we’ve learned that successful permit applications require a careful balance of detail and clarity. Here’s what you need to know about assembling a complete permit set.
Building Codes and Jurisdictions
Building codes update on a three-year cycle. As of January 2025, Alexandria and other Virginia jurisdictions operate under the 2021 Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC). DC uses the 2017 DC Construction Codes (based on 2015 IRC), with their next code update anticipated in 2025.
While fundamentals remain similar across jurisdictions, each has its own processing system and requirements. Always verify current codes early in your project, as requirements can change mid-project if permits aren’t secured before new codes take effect.
Project-Specific Requirements
Interior Remodels
For kitchens and baths, you’ll typically need:
- Floor plans showing existing and proposed layouts
- Plumbing fixture locations
- Electrical plans with loads
- Ventilation details
- Structural modifications if removing walls
Whole House Remodels
Require additional documentation:
- Complete floor plans for all levels
- Full mechanical and electrical plans
- Structural analysis
- Energy compliance
- Existing conditions survey
Additions and New Construction
Need comprehensive documentation:
- Site plan with setbacks
- Architectural plans and elevations
- Foundation and framing details
- MEP plans with engineering
- Energy calculations
- Grading and drainage plans
Zoning Considerations
Alexandria uses Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to regulate building size:
- Single-family zones: 0.25 to 0.35 FAR maximum
- Example: 6,000 sq ft lot at 0.30 FAR allows 1,800 sq ft house
- FAR includes all above-grade floor area
- Basements and certain attic spaces exempt
- Garage inclusion varies by configuration
Site Plan Requirements
Alexandria’s location within the Chesapeake Bay watershed adds specific requirements:
For projects disturbing >2,500 sq ft:
- Water quality impact assessment
- Erosion and sediment control plan
- Stormwater management calculations
- Tree canopy requirements (10-20% coverage based on zoning)
- Resource Protection Area (RPA) delineation within 100 feet of streams/wetlands
Core Drawing Requirements
Site Plan
- Property survey showing lines and setbacks
- Utility connections
- Trees over 6″ diameter within 25′ of work
- Drainage patterns
- North arrow and scale
Floor Plans
- Dimensioned layouts
- Room designations
- Door/window schedules
- Safety features
- System locations
Elevations and Sections
- Height dimensions
- Material specifications
- Construction assemblies
- Waterproofing details
Administrative Requirements
Permit fees follow a straightforward structure:
- New construction: $8.50 per $1,000 of value
- Alterations: $8.00 per $1,000
- Trade permits: $7.50 per $1,000 of specific work
Special considerations:
- Board of Architectural Review (BAR) approval required before permit submission for all Old Town historic district projects
- Flood zone documentation when applicable
- Tree preservation plans
Permit vs Construction Drawings
Understanding the distinction is crucial: permit drawings demonstrate code compliance – they show the what and where. Construction drawings provide complete building instructions – the how. We’ll explore construction drawing requirements in a future post.