Yes. Nearly all of the local jurisdictions charge for ambulance service. Nationally, greater than 80 percent of local jurisdictions also have ambulance billing programs.

Currently, the City of Fairfax Fire Department is not distributing patches upon request.

Information: 703-385-7940, email.

Section 32.1-111.14 of the Code of Virginia authorizes jurisdictions to make reasonable charges for the use of emergency medical service vehicles.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) ensures patient information is protected.  The City of Fairfax is a covered entity under HIPAA’s privacy and security regulations and will continue to adhere to these standards. All fire department employees and volunteers receive ongoing training related to HIPAA and other privacy laws.

No. There is no fee for care rendered where there is no transport.

Patients medically transported who do not provide health insurance information will be sent a request for insurance information. This request will include a Request for Transport Fee Hardship Waiver that can be submitted if they are uninsured and cannot afford to make payments. The information and the waiver form are available on the City of Fairfax Insurance Billing for Ambulance Transport web page: https://www.fairfaxva.gov/government/fire-department/operations/ems-transport-billing

There is no charge for service rendered when a person is provided medical treatment, but not transported. In addition, the ordinance waives charges in the following circumstances: When a patient is medically indigent; persons affected by natural or man-made disaster, including fire, flood and storm; and persons transported pursuant to any no-charge mutual aid agreement in another jurisdiction.

Change Healthcare, the City’s third party billing professional, will attempt to gain all information required to show the medical necessity of the transport. If the claim is denied, the vendor will check the claim for errors and resubmit if necessary.  If the claim is ultimately rejected by the insurance company, the vendor will send a statement to the patient.

Ambulance billing began on February 1, 2008.

Medicare requires up to three types of documentation known as an Authorization Of Benefits (AOB) to submit an insurance claim for EMS transport. The patient will be asked to sign the AOB form in order to bill the insurance company, and that the patient received a Notice for Privacy Practice which will be left with them. This form is the same type of form that a patient would sign when being seen at a doctor’s office.

If the patient is unable to sign the AOB another family member may be asked to sign the form. The form may be in an electronic format on a computer or in paper form.

Medicare will pay 80 percent of the approved amount. However, co-payments may apply.

Yes. However, due to our small size the City of Fairfax is not capable of accommodating large numbers of owner releases or stray cats trapped by citizens. We recommend whenever possible that owners needing to relinquish a pet attempt to work with local rescue groups prior to dropping their pet off at the City's Animal Shelter. Our Animal Control Division can provide relinquishing owners with many breed appropriate rescue groups to contact. 

Pet owners must first respond to the Police Department, located at 3730 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax, VA 22030, with their pets rabies certificate, City of Fairfax or Fairfax County dog license if applicable, and either a check or exact cash to cover the pickup and boarding fees. Animal redemption can be made between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM on weekdays and from 7:00 AM until 5:00 PM on Saturdays. Animals are not released on Sundays or holidays. The animal pick-up fee is $25 plus $25 boarding for each partial day that the animal is in custody. If your pet does not have a current rabies vaccination one will be administered by a veterinarian at Town and Country Animal Hospital at the owners expense. This fee is paid separately from the boarding and pick-up fees. Contact the police department’s non-emergency number prior to responding if you would like further instructions and the exact amount of payment required, 703-385-7924.

Yes. However, due to our small size the City of Fairfax is not capable of accommodating large numbers of owner releases or stray cats trapped by citizens. We recommend whenever possible that owners needing to relinquish a pet attempt to work with local rescue groups prior to dropping their pet off at the City's Animal Shelter. Our Animal Control Division can provide relinquishing owners with many breed appropriate rescue groups to contact. 

The City of Fairfax does not have a leash law or a license law for cats. Cats can only be picked up by Animal Control if they are sick, injured, infant, known positively to have been abandoned, there's an immediate danger to a human's or the cat's life, health or safety, or if the cat has bitten someone and the owner cannot be located to properly confine the cat. Homeowners do have the right to remove stray animals from their property by humanely trapping them and transporting them to the City of Fairfax Animal Shelter, located at 9836 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax, VA 22030.

Pet owners must first respond to the Police Department, located at 3730 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax, VA 22030, with their pets rabies certificate, City of Fairfax or Fairfax County dog license if applicable, and either a check or exact cash to cover the pickup and boarding fees. Animal redemption can be made between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM on weekdays and from 7:00 AM until 5:00 PM on Saturdays. Animals are not released on Sundays or holidays. The animal pick-up fee is $25 plus $25 boarding for each partial day that the animal is in custody. If your pet does not have a current rabies vaccination one will be administered by a veterinarian at Town and Country Animal Hospital at the owners expense. This fee is paid separately from the boarding and pick-up fees. Contact the police department’s non-emergency number prior to responding if you would like further instructions and the exact amount of payment required, 703-385-7924.

As human populations continue to rise and move into traditional wildlife habitats, human/wildlife contact is becoming more prevalent.

Below are some easy techniques which will usually solve the problem and prevent it from re-occurring:

• If you are feeding wildlife, stop. This will cause them to lose their natural fear of humans and often leads to an animal having to be euthanized due to aggressive behavior towards humans in their expectation of being fed. The feeding of wildlife is also illegal in the state of Virginia.
• If possible keep trash cans inside a shed, garage or other enclosure until the morning of trash pick-up or place trash in an animal proof container, such as a trash can with handles that latch over top of the lids. Hinged metal latches can be purchased at local hardware stores and easily attached to most trash receptacles. 
• Do not leave pet food outside; keep pet feeding areas clean. If you must feed domestic animals outdoors, do so during daylight hours and pick up any remaining food after 20-30 minutes.
• Remove bird feeders when problem species, such as bears, have been seen around them.
• Close up all openings under and into your buildings. Animals look for safe dry places to nest and raise their young. Don’t give them that opportunity. To a wild animal underneath sheds and decks and inside chimneys or attics are safe dry places for wildlife to raise their young while keeping them protected from other wildlife. Chimneys should be securely capped and outside structures should be sealed at the base and at least 1-2 feet into the ground.
• Clear overhanging tree limbs and branches which may be providing wildlife access to structures.
• Clear fallen fruit from around trees.
• Pass along this information to your neighbors. If anyone in the neighborhood is feeding wildlife directly, or indirectly, it can cause trouble for everyone.
• Reflective tape, lights, or loud noises sometimes work, but some wildlife will eventually grow accustomed to these methods, so these are only temporary solutions. Again once it is certain that no animals are present inviting areas should be properly sealed.
• A radio playing and a bottle of apple cider vinegar placed inside a fireplace will often convince mother raccoons nesting of top of the flue to move her babies to another nest sooner than later. A secure cap should be installed at the top of the chimney once it is certain no animals are still living inside.
• Electric wire fencing can be very effective in keeping wildlife out of crops, beehives or other structures and is relatively inexpensive.
• Mesh fencing can be placed over the tops of bushes and ornamental plants.
• Wrap trees and down spouts with chicken wire at least 3 feet high from the base.
• When placed inside one opening of a den, rags soaked with apple cider vinegar and/or used kitty litter work well for convincing wildlife mothers and their babies to move out sooner than later. Again, once all animals have left, the area needs to be properly secured to prevent future use.
• It is illegal in the State of Virginia to trap and relocate wildlife to another area.

Animal Control does not typically deal with nuisance wildlife or healthy wildlife that is outdoors where it belongs. 

If you are experiencing a problem with nuisance wildlife, please contact the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries wildlife conflict helpline at 1-855-571-9003.

 If a wild animal appears to be sick, injured, overly aggressive, and overly friendly or is actually inside the living or business areas of a structure contact Animal Control immediately, 703-385-7924.

Trapping is only a temporary solution to a permanent problem. As long as the conditions exist in an area to support the survival of a certain species that species will always be there. If animals are removed from an area and the conditions that attracted them to that area in the first place are still present, other wildlife will fill the vacancies. Imagine what would become of your own home if you moved or passed away. Would it remain vacant or would someone else eventually move in? It is best to use deterrent methods to convince the animal that it does not want to live there. Once you are certain that animals are no longer present, areas such as attics, chimneys, and underneath of decks and sheds should be securely sealed. For further advice on how to deal with nuisance wildlife the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Wildlife has a wildlife hotline manned by wildlife biologists Mondays through Fridays. That number is 1-855-571-9003. If the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries deems that due to exigent circumstances trapping is warranted they can provide residents with a list of licensed trappers in their area. 

Do not try to capture or pick it up. Often infant wildlife will be left alone for long periods while their mothers search for food. If an infant animal does not appear to be sick or injured and is not posing an immediate threat leave it be. The mother will likely return. Often they will not return until long after dark and only when the area is quiet and free of potential threats. Uninjured infant birds can be placed back in their nests. If you know that the mother is deceased or she has not returned within 12 hours then the infant may in fact need outside assistance. If an unclaimed infant or an injured wild animal is not posing a threat place a box, bucket or other sturdy container over top of it to protect it from predators and to keep humans from having contact with it. Contact Animal control if it is during their duty hours, 703-385-7924. In the evenings and on holidays the Wildlife Rescue League can be contacted at 703-440-0800. If the animal is a common rabies vector such as a raccoon, fox, skunk, coyote, ground hog, or bat and it has possibly bitten or been in contact with humans or pets contact Animal Control or the Police Department immediately, 703-385-7924.

The best thing to do is to leave it alone. They are just as afraid of us as we are of them and will go on their way if not threatened. If the snake is in a location where it is blocking an entrance to your home or vehicle, spraying it with a garden hose will typically convince it to move along. As long as a snake or other wild animal has an escape route they will generally take that rather than moving towards humans or other animals. Never corner a snake or any other animal as that will force them to defend themselves rather than retreating. 

The City of Fairfax has a contract with Town and Country Animal Hospital to act as our holding facility/animal shelter. Town and Country Animal Hospital is located at 9836 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax, VA 22030. Phone 703-273-2110.   

Animal Control will only remove wild snakes that are in the living areas of your home. Native snakes that are outside should be left alone. Animal Control will pick up domestic/pet/exotic snakes which have escaped from their homes. 

No. Animal Control responds for sick, injured, orphaned, overly aggressive or overly friendly wildlife or wildlife that has made its way into the living areas of a home or business. Animal Control will also respond in the event that a human or domestic animal has possibly been bitten or otherwise exposed to the saliva of a wild animal. Healthy wild wildlife that is trapped may only be released on the same property or euthanized. Orphans or injured non-rabies vectors may in some cases be transported to a licensed wildlife rehabilitate. If you do have a situation, such as any of the above that requires immediate attention please contact our non-emergency police dispatch number 703-385-7924. If an animal control officer is not on duty a police officer will respond initially to determine if an animal control officer needs to be called out from home or if the situation can be dealt with in another safe and humane manner.

Typically, coyotes are only a danger to humans in the rare cases where one is rabid, if they are cornered or when small children or large dogs wander too close to their dens during pup season. Coyotes will however, eat cats, small dogs, and other small pets. Coyotes do most of their hunting at night. Cats and small pets should be kept indoors, especially at night. Dogs should not be left outdoors unattended. Children and pets should be kept away from known den areas during pup season (late February through late September). Citizens are also reminded that dogs must be leashed and under their owner's immediate control when not on their owners property. It is especially important that dogs remain leashed and close to their owners when walking in areas where coyotes might be present. A dog roaming loose near a coyote den during pup season is much more likely to be seen as a threat by a coyote than one that is being properly restrained. 

Yes. Coyotes help to normalize other wild life populations that have become overgrown such as Canadian geese and rats.

Yes. Coyotes were first sighted around the tank farm and Daniel's Run in 2001. They have gradually migrated and are now being reported throughout the entire City.

No. They are more of a nuisance than a threat. They are not prone to attack and will normally scamper off if disturbed. Clapping your hands or stomping your feet is usually enough to get them to move along. If the fox does not leave, or is unable to leave, contact Animal Control. Mange is an ailment that is specific to all canine species. However, most healthy adult domestic dogs who have been vaccinated regularly are immune to them. In fact many domestic dogs already carry the mites but do not become afflicted with mange. Small unvaccinated puppies or dogs whose immune systems are otherwise compromised should not be housed outdoors where fox and coyote populations are known to exist.

For additional information contact our Animal Control Division at 703-385-7919. For emergencies or situations that require immediate attention contact our Police Dispatch at 703-385-7924.

Yes. They are generally non-confrontational and can easily be scared off by the above methods. Coyotes who have not been given reasons to fear humans will often become much bolder and more likely to closely follow or approach humans. The above scare tactics are often referred to as coyote hazing. Once a coyote is conditioned to the fact that it does need to fear humans, they become much less likely to follow or approach humans in the future. If scare tactics are unsuccessful, a coyote does in fact attempt to approach you, whether in an aggressive manner or in an overly friendly manner or if it appears to be sick or injured Animal Control should be contacted immediately, 703-385-7924. 

Not safely. They are very elusive and are difficult to trap humanely or safely. Relocating wildlife is illegal in the state of Virginia. Even if coyotes could be safely captured and removed, as long as the environmental conditions exist to support their survival in the area others will quickly fill the vacancies. Most species of wildlife will inhabit an area with whatever numbers that area can sustain. When the population level drops below that number those opening are generally filled by young recently maturing animals that were not accepted in their original home environment or by an increase in the size of litters/number of pups being born to each female. This creates a much younger and less stable population.

Rabies is only transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. When a human or animal has contact with an infected animal's saliva through a bite wound or by saliva entering an existing open wound or mucous membrane (i.e. mouth, lips and eyes) than an exposure has occurred. 

No. Although foxes are considered to be nocturnal they will frequently come out during the day to sun themselves and look for alternative food sources. Also, over the years foxes have been shifting their habits more to daytime hours in order not to compete with the growing population coyotes during their peek hunting hours.

No. Although these animals are susceptible to contracting rabies it does not mean that they all are carrying the rabies virus. Also, animals are only infectious to humans and other animals from the onset of symptoms up until the time of death. The amount of time between the onset of symptoms and the time of death is typically 7 days. When an animal has been exposed to rabies it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months for the animal to actually develop symptoms of the virus. They are not infectious to other animals or humans during that incubation period.

That use to be true. However, the vaccines have been improved dramatically over the years. They are now given in the arm muscle and are typically no worse than a tetanus shot. The number of shots given has also been greatly reduced (by more than half).

Only mammals can contract rabies. Those most likely to be seen with rabies or to spread the rabies virus are raccoons, foxes, skunks, coyotes, bats, and ground hogs. Stray/wild dogs and stray un-vaccinated cats are also at high risk. Small rodents such as squirrels, mice, and rats are not considered to be common rabies carriers.

Falling down, stumbling, walking in circles, wobbly or off balance, walking with head hung down, snapping and barking at the air, hissing, snarling, growling, overly aggressive or overly friendly, and wandering or running toward people rather than away. Choking and salivating are not seen until the later stages of rabies, usually when the animal is no longer mobile.

These foxes have mange mites. Mange is an ailment caused by tiny mites under the skin. Normally these foxes are very thin, will have scabs or open sores, and scratch a lot. These foxes are even more likely to be seen out during the day as they are no longer able to hunt and do not have enough body fat to keep warm. They are frequently seen curled up in yards sunning themselves. They will also come out during the day to look for alternate food sources as the odor to their skin and their weak condition leave them unable to hunt or compete with healthy wild life. Mange is an ailment that is specific to all canine species. However, most healthy adult domestic dogs who have been vaccinated regularly are immune to them. In fact many domestic dogs already carry the mites but do not become afflicted with mange. Small un-vaccinated puppies or dogs whose immune systems are otherwise compromised should not be housed outdoors where fox and coyote populations are known to exist.

Contact Animal Control and your physician immediately. Wash the bite area thoroughly with warm water and soap. If the animal is immobile and you can safely do so place a bucket or other solid container over top of it. Do not try to capture or handle an aggressive animal yourself. Do try to stay aware of the animal's location if possible. Animal Control will make every attempt to capture biting wildlife in order for rabies testing to be performed.

Contact Animal Control immediately (703-385-7924). Try and stay aware of the bat’s location. If it is safe for you to do so place a bucket or solid container over top of the bat and then place a heavy object on top of the container. Do not remove or release a bat outside without first contacting Animal Control or the Fairfax County Health Department (703-246-6004) to determine whether or not you are at risk of a rabies exposure. Bats have very small/sharp teeth. Bite wounds from bats may not be noticed if the individual bitten was sleeping or otherwise unable to tell anyone about the possibility of them having had contact with the bat (i.e. small children, persons who are intoxicated or mentally handicapped, and pets).

Make a lot of noise. Stomp your feet, yell, clap and throw items such as sticks or stones in order to get the coyote to go on its way. Carrying a whistle, blow horn or can of compressed air (such as those used for cleaning computers and key boards) can also be helpful. Coyote/human confrontations most commonly take place shortly after dusk and shortly before dawn. It is especially important to be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to use scare tactics when walking during these hours.

Immediately wash any wounds, or areas where saliva may have made contact, with warm water and soap. Contact Animal Control in order to try and have the animal captured for rabies testing or quarantined if it's a domestic animal. If it is safe to do so place a solid container over top of the animal and then place a heavy object on top of the container. If it is not safe to try and place a container over top of the animal, try and keep track of where the animal is or its direction of travel. Contact your physician and your local health department (Fairfax County Health Department Ph.: 703-246-6004) to determine the proper protocol for post-exposure vaccinations.

The final determination should be made by the individual’s physician and their local health department (Fairfax County Health Department Ph: 703-246-6004). Anyone who has been bitten by a potentially rabid animal or has possibly had contact with the saliva of a rabid animal through an open wound or mucous membrane would be at risk.

Yes! Larger projects, including painting work, require approval of a major certificate of appropriateness. This process requires a hearing before the Board of Architectural Review, or BAR, and potentially City Council as well. Smaller projects require approval of a minor certificate of appropriateness, which is reviewed administratively by staff and does not require a public hearing. Contact planning staff and tell them about your project so that they can tell you what approval you will need.

The application package can be found here. Detailed instructions are laid out within. Always feel free to contact planning staff for help filling out this application and to ask questions about submission requirements by calling 703-385-7930.

Yes! Any change to the appearance of a commercial property anywhere in the City requires an architectural approval. See below to find out what changes require approval.

If you live in a single-family detached or attached home or a townhouse, you do not need to receive an architectural approval to change the appearance of your home or property. There is an exception: If you live in the Old Town Fairfax Historic Overlay District, the area at the center of the City closest to Old Town (Main Street/University Drive area) you will need an architectural approval to change the appearance of your home or property. Contact planning staff to confirm whether you are located within this district by calling 703-385-7930. See below to find out what changes require approval.

Staff will issue a notice of violation, or NOV, to the property owner. This is a warning that requires that a plan of correction be submitted to the planning office within 30 days. Failure to comply will result in issuance of fines that increase in cost over time.

Any change to a property that is visible from a public place, such as the roadway, a park, or a government-owned property. This could include but is not limited to:

• Painting
• Façade modifications
• Additions
• New buildings
• Doors or windows
• Awnings
• Shutters
• Lighting
• Outdoor furniture
• Fences
• Trash enclosures
• Landscaping
• Signs in certain parts of the City (contact staff to confirm)

Repairs and in-kind replacements do not require architectural review.

Always contact staff to confirm! The planning office can be reached at 703-385-7930.

Three separate supporting worksheets are required: 

1. for all furniture, fixtures and non-computer equipment reported in Part 1; 
2. for all computer equipment reported in Part 2; and 
3. for all leased personal property in your possession on January 1, showing effective date and cost of lease along with the name and address of the lessor.
4. The supporting worksheets must contain a detailed listing of items owned on January 1, with original purchase cost and the date of acquisition, including all property, which the expense deduction was elected under Section 179 of the Internal Revenue Code in lieu of depreciation

You may apply for a business license in Room 224 of city hall. Also you may apply on line or download a form from the city's web.

• Apply for Business License Online
• Download & Print Business License Application and Instructions

In order to receive a City of Fairfax business license you may first need to register your business. If your business is a Corporation or Limited Partnership, all such organizations conducting business in the Commonwealth of Virginia must register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. To incorporate your business in Virginia, you must file articles of incorporation and amendments with the: 

Virginia State Corporation Commission
P.O. Box 1197
Richmond, VA 23218
(800) 552-7945 or (804) 371-9733

If your business is a General Partnership or you wish to use a trade name you must register with:

Clerk of the Circuit Court
Fairfax County
4110 Chain Bridge Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 246-4100

The City of Fairfax School Board is your voice to Fairfax County Public Schools. You have two ways to reach FCPS.

1. Please contact the City school board to voice your opinion. You may send an email to SchoolBoard@FairfaxVa.com call the district office at 703-293-7131 or sign up to speak at a school board meeting. The City School Board will relay your message to our colleagues at FCPS.
2. City residents are welcomed and encouraged to reach out to FCPS School Board and staff. You may go to the FCPS website to reach Region 5 or you are also welcome to sign up to speak at an FCPS meeting.

There are a number of ways for you to connect with the City School Board.

Phone: 703-293-7131

Email: SchoolBoard@FairfaxVa.gov

School Board Meeting Schedule - click here

Follow on Twitter @FairfaxSchools

Facebook / City of Fairfax Schools

Sign up for our monthly newsletter, CloseUp

Our schools are open to the community to use for meetings or gatherings. For Daniels Run ES, Providence ES and Lanier MS please visit the FCPS website. 

Fairfax High School has a dedicated community use liaison. Please visit the FHS website for information about using FHS facilities.  

The FY2021 proposed budget is $61,800,000.  A large percentage of this money (about 85%) is dedicated to the tuition payment to Fairfax County Public Schools. The remaining funds are dedicated to school supports, debt services for bonds from the FHS/LMS renovations and City of Fairfax School staff.

The City of Fairfax Schools pays for additional supports to our schools including:

• Supporting 1:1 providing a laptop to every student at Lanier MS, years ahead of other FCPS middle schools.
• Summer learning programs for all four schools to assist with student transitions to new schools, enhancement programs for advanced learners, support programs for students needing additional instruction.
• Staff development opportunities including conferences, collaboration time and materials.
• Grants for teachers to enhance classroom or grade level activities
• National Board Certification tuition reimbursement for city school teachers.

City of Fairfax residents are represented by a five-member City school board. The City of Fairfax holds elections for school board every two years. If you are a city resident, the city school board is your voice to FCPS. County residents vote for FCPS school board and city residents vote for City school board members.

When parents have questions or concerns about school policies or practices, they are encouraged first to work with school staff to resolve issues. If issues cannot be resolved at the school level, parents will be referred to the Region 5 Office in Fairfax County Public Schools. The Region 5 Superintendent and staff works closely with the City Superintendent to supervise and support the four City-owned schools. You may also contact the City of Fairfax School Board, however the City School Board encourages parents to work with their school for school-based issues.

We welcome community members to get involved in our schools. If you would like to mentor or volunteer on campus, please contact the schools directly and ask about opportunities. There are many options - from long-term volunteering such as student mentors or classroom reading volunteers to shorter, one day commitments such as Career Day speakers, concession stand volunteer for sporting events to garden clean up days.

We also welcome corporate volunteer opportunities. If you are representing a business or group, please contact our community liaison Carrie Dorsey at 703-293-7131. 

Fairfax City Schools and Fairfax County Public Schools are two separate school boards. Fairfax City residents are represented by the City of Fairfax School Board.

In 1962, a School Services Agreement (SSA) was entered with the two school boards. Under this agreement, FCPS is responsible for curriculum, staffing, transportation and school meals while the City of Fairfax is responsible for the management of the four city-owned school building facilities.  The City of Fairfax Schools pays an annual tuition bill to FCPS.

In 1962, a School Services Agreement (SSA) was entered with the City of Fairfax Schools and FCPS. Under this agreement, FCPS is responsible for curriculum, staffing, transportation and meals while the City of Fairfax is responsible for the management of the four city-owned school buildings. The City of Fairfax pays an annual tuition bill to FCPS.

Please watch our School Board Chairman talking about this partnership. 

Key Elements of the SSA:

The City of Fairfax welcomes county students so City schools can offer a wide variety of academic and extra-curricular opportunities.

• The City Superintendent is responsible for the oversight and management of the SSA.
• City students are educated in city schools.
• The City School Board appoints citizen representatives to serve on FCPS advisory committees.
• The City and County School Superintendents consult on topics such as boundary changes, school closings, selection of principals, citizen participation, special community needs, non-school activities and complaints.
• The City is responsible for major capital improvements to school buildings.
• Members of the City School Board collaborate with their County School Board colleagues through regular, ongoing communication, participation in regional and state School Board meetings and conferences, and an annual City/County Board meeting.

City students and parents are entitled to all of the services provided at any Fairfax County school.

Fairfax High School (including Fairfax Academy for Communications and the Arts), Lanier Middle School, Providence Elementary School and Daniels Run Elementary School.

The five at large members are elected every two years in even numbered years. The next election will be in May, 2020.

We encourage our community to connect with our schools! 

Our website has information about our schools and school board. 

School Board Meeting Schedule

Follow on Twitter @FairfaxSchools

Facebook / City of Fairfax Schools

Sign up for our monthly newsletter, CloseUp 

The current board members elected in 2018 are: 

Carolyn Pitches, Chairman

Toby Sorensen, Vice Chairman

Jon Buttram

Bob Reinsel

Dr. Mitch Sutterfield

Please visit the City Schools' website for complete bios. 

The Schools Services Agreement, which allows county students to attend city schools and city student to attend county schools (for advanced academics, special education or IB program) is beneficial to both city and county students. By welcoming county kids into our city schools, we are able to offer a number of academic, athletic and extra-curricular opportunities we would not be able to offer independently. We also know we are stronger due to the culturally rich and diverse student body and we value all of our students attending our schools.

Yes, please fill out the Owner Exemption Statement Form.

**You must reside at the property to use the Owner Exemption Statement Form. 

The City enforces the Property Maintenance Code which contains the minimum requirements and standards for the maintenance of existing residential and nonresidential structures and all existing premises. Contact Code Administration at 703-385-7830 or visit our website for more information.

Check (made out to City of Fairfax), Cash, or Credit Card (everything except American Express). At this time we are unable to take payment over the phone but we do take credit cards through an online system.

First, you will need to contact the Zoning Department and fill out a Use Permit Application. Second, our office will determine if you need an FPC (Fire Prevention Code Permit) and a Fire Marshal Inspection for the Use. We can be reached at 703-385-7830. 

You'll be able to schedule the Use & FPC Inspection once Zoning has approved your occupancy and your Building/Trade/Fire Permits have had final inspections.

After your Fire Marshal inspection has been approved you may open for business. Your Use permit will be sent down to the Commissioner of Revenue's Office. They will mail your Permit, along with the Business License. This usually takes about 7-10 business days.

The DMV2GO Bus parks in front of City Hall once a month from 9:00AM to 4:00PM. The Full Service Bus provides all DMV transactions including applying for and renewing driver’s license, REAL ID driver’s license and Virginia Veterans ID card. Road and Knowledge tests are available and applicants may get their pictures taken.

Within 30 days of moving into the City of Fairfax or obtaining a new vehicle, new residents must obtain a Virginia driver’s license, title and registration (or change their addresses on existing ones) with the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV); for information, call 804.497.7100 or visit www.dmv.virginia.

City Hall offers limited DMV Services.

 DMV Services available at City Hall are limited to:

• Titles: original, substitute, replacement, maintenance
• Registration: original, renewal, transfer, reissue, surrender
• Issue license plates (Including special and personalized plates)
• Trip or overload permits
• Original handicapped parking placards
• Voter registration applications
• Driver transcript requests
• Address changes that do not involve issuance of a drivers license or ID card

Building within the floodplain requires permitting and is restricted to utilities and public facilities, outdoor recreational uses, and limited redevelopment with a special use permit.

Resource Protection Areas are intended to stay in a natural state.  Building and disturbance within a Resource Protection Area is restricted by performance standards which generally require that alternatives to disturbance in the RPA be considered first, and that disturbance in the RPA be minimized if permitted.

In many cases the RPA and floodplain boundaries overlap and the requirements of both apply.

Please see section 4.15 and 4.18 of the Zoning Ordinance for specific information.

The floodplain boundaries are established by FEMA and floodplain maps are available here. 

The boundaries of the Resource Protection Area are available on the Interactive Mapper, a GIS web application.  Make sure that the Resource Protection Layer is activated in the Layers List on the top right. 

Both the floodplain and RPA are also delineated on the Zoning Map.

Illicit Discharges are defined as any substance not composed entirely of stormwater.  If you are aware of any discharges into storm sewers, city streams, or roads that may be an illicit discharge, including sediment, trash, oils, or any other hazardous substances that should not be allowed into the city streams, please immediately contact the City of Fairfax Fire Marshal at 703-385-7830 on weekdays from 8:30am-5:00pm or call the Police Department at 703-385-7924.  Exceptions to illicit discharges include waters from irrigation, uncontaminated groundwater, air conditioning condensate, dechlorinated swimming pool water, and individual residential car washing (commercial car washing is not exempt).   Please see section 4.16 of the Zoning Ordinance for specific information. 

A stormwater Best Management Practice (BMP) is a facility designed to address stormwater quality and/or water quantity.  Examples include detention ponds and vaults, rain gardens, infiltration trenches, and various proprietary facilities.  Pursuant to the BMP Maintenance and Monitoring Agreement, Erosion and Sediment Control Plan, or Site Plan governing the facilities throughout the City, it is responsibility of the property owner(s) to maintain the facility in good working order.

Visit the Department of Public Works BMP and Stormwater Management Inspection Program webpage for more information.

Public Works is responsible for maintenance of storm drainage facilities.  Contact Street Division at 703-385-7980 or visit the Streets Division webpage. 

Drainage, erosion, and ground water issues between property owners are private civil matters.  Public Works does not have the authority to require corrections for drainage issues unless they are a result of a regulated land disturbing activity (greater than 2,500sq.ft of land disturbance).  Public Works may be able to offer assistance in an advisory capacity to clarify the cause of the problem and possible solutions.

The City will conduct a City-wide assessment to ensure all facilities are in working order on an annual basis. A representative from the City or an authorized consultant will visit your property (or HOA property) to conduct an inspection of the stormwater control measures and BMPs in place, and a notice will be provided prior to the inspection.

Check (made out to City of Fairfax), Cash, or Credit Card (everything except American Express). At this time we are unable to take payment over the phone but we do take credit cards through an online system.

First, you will need to contact the Zoning Department and fill out a Use Permit Application. Second, our office will determine if you need an FPC (Fire Prevention Code Permit) and a Fire Marshal Inspection for the Use. We can be reached at 703-385-7830. 

You'll be able to schedule the Use & FPC Inspection once Zoning has approved your occupancy and your Building/Trade/Fire Permits have had final inspections.

After your Fire Marshal inspection has been approved you may open for business. Your Use permit will be sent down to the Commissioner of Revenue's Office. They will mail your Permit, along with the Business License. This usually takes about 7-10 business days.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, help is available 24 hours a day. 

Call (703) 502-7000 (TTY 703 322-9080) or go directly to the Merrifield Center located at 8221 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031.

Contact the Fairfax Falls Church Community Services Board’s Entry and Referral Line at (703) 383-8500 (TTY 711) between 9 am to 5 pm, Monday-Friday.

Additional information about services is available at:  https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/

Financial child care assistance is available for eligible families with low to moderate incomes who are working or enrolled in educational/training programs.  To learn more call, (703) 449-8484.  Families can also utilize this number to obtain information about county child care programs.  Additional information is available at:  https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/office-for-children/

Call (703) 324-7984 (TTY 703 449-1186) between 8 am and 4:30 pm., Monday through Friday. 

Information about resources is available at: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults

Call (703) 324-5421 (TTY 703 449-1186) between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Information about resources is also available at: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/disabilities

Call (703) 222-0880 between 8 am and 4:30 pm Monday-Friday to speak to a Community Services Planning specialist.

Information about resources is available at: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/

Lesley Abashian is the City’s Director of Human Services.  She can be reached at (703) 385-7894 or Lesley.Abashian@fairfaxva.gov.

Beginning September 27, city residents began purchasing lifetime dog tags.

The new tags cost $10 per dog — and will be purchased the same way as previous dog tags were purchased. (Note: The price will increase to $20 on January 1, 2022.)

If you previously received a renewal notice, you will notice a few changes to the form:

• Next to your dog’s name, you will see important notes regarding the rabies vaccination status
• The multiple tag types and costs no longer appear
• Your dog’s spay/neuter status is no longer a factor in the cost of the license

Lifetime licenses may be purchased in person at the Treasurer's Office, City Hall Room 234, or download the application from our website and mail $10 and the completed application (along with the rabies certificates, which will be returned with license).

For more information, call the Treasurer’s Office at 703.385.7900.

NOTE: There are NO refunds for unused years of the multiyear tags.

Cats are not licensed, but must be vaccinated against rabies. For information on all animal laws, call the animal warden at 703.385.7924

According to state code section 3.2-65, all dogs older than four months of age are required to have a current rabies vaccination, and purchase a dog license from the locality in which they live. The General Assembly made this decision to help prevent the spread of rabies in Virginia.

When dogs are vaccinated against rabies, veterinarians are required to submit that documentation to your local Treasurer’s Office.

Dog owners who have not yet purchased a dog license by the time the documentation is submitted will receive a license application from the Treasurer's Office, with instructions on how to purchase a license.

Only the Historic Blenheim modern Civil War Interpretive Center is available for rental.  Rentals are managed by the City's Parks and Recreation Department. Rental information

Our museum sites are not formal research centers, but our exhibitions are good starting points for general research on Fairfax History and the Civil War.  If you are looking for help and resources for local history, please visit The Virginia Room at the City of Fairfax Regional Library  , or the Fairfax County Circuit Court Historic Records Center.  If you are researching a Civil War soldier you may contact andrea.loewenwarter@fairfaxva.gov  at Historic Blenheim for assistance.  Please call in advance to 703.591.6728.

Yes.  Adult groups and education programs for students are available for a fee.  (No fee charged for City of Fairfax schools.)  All tours are tailored for group needs, educational standards, and interests.  Tours require advanced reservations.  Off-site and programs can also be arranged with advanced notice.  To arrange educational programs, talks, or tours of City-owned historic museums email Susan.gray@fairfaxva.gov or call 703.385.8415.

•  Always!  The Office of Historic Resources has various volunteer opportunities at our three historic sites.  The first step is to attend a volunteer orientations offered periodically throughout the year. Volunteer Application .

We thank you for your thoughtfulness. Our local 501c3 preservation board, Historic Fairfax City, Inc.,  helps support our financial needs.  General or site specific donations can be made at any of our sites with checks made out to Historic Fairfax City, Inc. (HFCI.)  Checks can also be sent to HFCI c/o Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center 10209 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22030.  To sponsor specific programs or to donate for object conservation contact  SusanGray@fairfaxva.gov, 803.385.8415.

The Office of Historic Resources welcomes the donation of objects that complement and fulfill our current collections. Historic Resources staff follows a policy of selective acquisition. Every donation offer is thoughtfully considered to determine if it is in line with the criteria for the acquisition and acceptance of donations as outlined in the Office of Historic Resources Collections Management Policy. Any object accepted into the City of Fairfax’s Historic Collections should support the institution’s mission, conform to the Scope of Collections, and be properly cared for in a manner consistent with professional museum standards.

 Historic Resources staff cannot provide appraisals or monetary values for any donation; however, potential donors can find an appraiser through the American Society of Appraisers. 

If you are interested in donating an object to the City of Fairfax’s Historic Collections, please email Megan.Leining@fairfaxva.gov or call 703.691.8294.

The Office of Historic Resources offers free monthly programs or lectures series at the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center and Historic Blenheim.  Please check the Program schedule for the latest listings.  Historic Blenheim hosts an annual Fairfax History Day  in late April. 

Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center 10209 Main Street. Open Daily 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 703.385.8414. Free to general public.  For group tours reservations are needed and a fee is charged.  This museum showcases local and regional history and traveling and .temporary exhibitions on a variety of topics.  Housed in the historic Fairfax Elementary School building, The Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center is a State Certified Visitor Center for your traveling and local information needs and features a gift shop stocking collectibles, souvenirs, books and more.

Historic Blenheim and the Civil War Interpretive Center, 3610 Old Lee Highway.  Open Tuesday - Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 1 p.m. guided house tours. 703.591.0560.  Free general admission.  Groups of 8 or larger must make separate reservations for a guided tour for a fee.  The historic house and modern interpretive building highlight our collections of Civil War Union soldier graffiti,  the local Willcoxon family, and the enslaved people they owned..  Gift shop features Civil War-themed books and collectibles.  

Ratcliffe-Allison-Pozer House, 10386 Main Street.  Open Saturdays May-October, 12 p.m.-3 p.m. and during special City event days. Free. For group tours reservations are needed and a fee is charged.  703.385-8414  This historic house museum illustrates everyday life on Main Street from shoemaker Henry Logan in 1807 to the twentieth-century owner Kitty Pozer, a gardening columnist for newspapers and magazines.  

The following persons are required to register and file annual personal property tax returns, however they are exempt by law from paying the personal property tax :

• Military personnel or their spouse who are on active or extended duty and are not legal residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Members of the U.S. Congress and their spouses and recognized Foreign Diplomats.
• Any person legally domiciled in another state, whose motor vehicle is normally garaged or parked in the City of Fairfax, provided they show evidence that they have paid a personal property tax on the vehicle in their state of domicile.
•  A full- time student attending an institution of higher education provided the student has presented sufficient evidence that he has paid personal property tax in his legal domicile.

Yes, the City of Fairfax has teamed with a third-party vendor to offer online tax payments.  After you choose the tax bill(s) that you wish to pay, you will be offered multiple ways to pay those taxes. 

By going to https://eservices.fairfaxva.gov/taxes to pay online.  You will be asked to choose your method of payment after you have chosen which bill(s) you wish to pay.

Payment Options available

eCheck provides quick and easy electronic transfer of funds from your existing bank account for payment.  You tell us your bank account number, bank routing number, and amount, and we handle the transfer electronically.  A $1.50 fee is charged for this method.  You are given a confirmation of your payment and all information is electronically secured.

Credit cards are another payment option we offer.  We can accept American Express, Visa, Master Card, and Discover cards for all personal property, MVLT, and real property tax payments.  A convenience fee is charged for the use of credit cards.  (The convenience fee is not charged by or paid to the City of Fairfax.)

PayPal is a payment option being offered if you have an existing PayPal account.  A convenience fee is charged for the use of PayPal.  (The convenience fee is not charged by or paid to the City of Fairfax.)

Debit and Forget it is a Real Estate only pre-payment ACH (Debit) option being offered.  You can set the payments up on based on your schedule (weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, annually).  A $1.50 fee is charged per ACH.  See the Debit and Forget It webpage page for more details.   

Yes and No! The City of Fairfax no longer requires decals on vehicles UNLESS you live in a Residential Permit Parking District (RPPD).  A current list and map of RPPDs can be found under Treasurer on this website. 

All vehicles garaged in the City of Fairfax Residential Permit Parking Districts (RPPD) must display a city residential parking permit (decal).

Decals are provided upon payment of the Vehicle Registration Fee and can be picked up in the Treasurer’s Office in City Hall or will be mailed to your residence.

The decal will expire October 5 each year.

Enforcement of the new decal begins November 16.

All vehicles garaged in the City of Fairfax Residential Permit Parking Districts (RPPD) must display a city residential parking permit (decal)

For new vehicles:  You receive a decal by registering your vehicle through the Commissioner of the Revenue's office and paying the VRF (Vehicle Registration Fee).

For currently registered vehicles you will receive a RPPD decal once your personal property tax, VRF and any associated fees are paid.

Decals expire October 5 each year. Enforcement of the new decal begins November 16.

Steps to view/print property tax payment information:

• Go to Online Payment Portal
• Select Yes, I accept
• Select the information requested from the pull down menus
  • Tax Year - individual year or ALL
  • Pay Status - unpaid, paid or Both
  • Tax Type - Real Estate or Personal Property/Business Personal Property
  • Search By
    • The searches vary by which tax type you chose
      • Real Estate search by: Owner Name, Property ID Number, Account Number, Address or Tax Map ID.
      • Personal Property search by: SSN or Federal ID AND Mailing Address Zip Code
• A list of each installment for each year will appear.  Click on the view next to each payment you wish to see
• Choose View and Print Receipt at the top of the screen
• Use your browser to print (usually CNTRL P)

Due to the high number of these requests we ask that you please try our website before calling our office.

A vehicle may be reported sold on the  Online Vehicle Registration on the city web. This online may be used for registering a new vehicle or reporting a vehicle sold.

Within 30 days of moving into the City of Fairfax or obtaining a new vehicle, new residents must obtain a Virginia driver’s license, title and registration (or change their addresses on existing ones) with the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV); for information, call 804.497.7100 or visit www.dmv.virginia.

City Hall offers limited DMV Services.

Yes, sign up for Fairfax City Alerts and never miss a tax due date!

Customize Tax Due Date Notifications.  You choose: by text, e-mail, mobile app, or phone.

Go to Fairfax City Alert portal

• Create a profile with a personal username and password, accept terms and create your account.

Log in then on right side is My Subscriptions click Edit to set up FAIRFAX CITY TAX DUE DATE ALERTS

• Click City Government
• Click Blue + plus sign
• Select Personal Property Tax & Decal Reminders, Real Estate Tax Reminders, Student Tax Reminders, and/or others as you prefer
• Click on the heading City Government
• Click SAVE

January 15 - 4th quarter (previous year) Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

March 1 - Business License Tax Due

April 15 - Federal Income Tax Returns Due (Personal)

May 1 - 1st quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

May 1 - Virginia Income Tax Returns Due (Personal)

June 15 - 2nd quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

June 21 - 1st installment Real Estate Tax Due

September 15 - 3rd quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

October 5 - Personal Property Tax and Motor Vehicle License Tax (MVLT) Due

November 15 - Motor Vehicle Decal must be displayed

December 5 - 2nd installment Real Estate Tax Due

Click here to be added to our Small Area Plans email list.

The Code of Virginia requires comprehensive plans be reviewed every five years to ensure they are responsive to their current circumstances and their goals continue to be supported by the citizenry; however, the City should consistently be prepared to make interim changes to the plan because necessary changes can result from the completion of strategic plans or changes to other City policies.

The City’s Interactive Zoning, Floodplain and Resource Protection Area, and Land Use Map provides information on a property’s Parcel ID, subdivision, zoning, existing land use, future land use, overlay district, proffer information, and master development plan. (Not all categories will apply to all properties.) If you have plans to redevelop or enhance your property, the information herein can help you determine if your plans comply with the Comprehensive Plan and the Zoning Ordinance.

A Comprehensive Plan is a jurisdiction's official policy guide for future development-related decisions; the Code of Virginia requires all counties, cities, and towns to develop a Comprehensive Plan. It is general and long-range in nature and provides a picture of how the community wishes to develop over the next 15 to 20 years. As a policy document, the plan provides a framework for residents and decision makers to conceptualize how the jurisdiction should look and function, as well as the best methods and strategies for achieving those goals. The City of Fairfax adopted its most recent Comprehensive Plan on February 12, 2019.

Small Area Plans are neighborhood-level plans intended to provide the City with guidance on each of its five Activity Centers – Old Town Fairfax, Northfax, Fairfax Circle, Kamp Washington, and Pickett & Main – defined in the 2035 Comprehensive Plan. While the Comprehensive Plan advises the Activity Center’s development at a high level, Small Area Plans provide more specific guidance for each Activity Center, including the desired mix of uses, residential density, building density, design aesthetic, street locations, multimodal connections infrastructure improvements, parking, and open space. As each Small Area Plan is completed and adopted, its recommendations will supersede the pre-existing guidance in the 2035 Comprehensive Plan for its respective Activity Center. The City is currently developing Small Area Plans for Old Town Fairfax and Northfax.

Please visit our Demographics and Statistical Profile page. You can also refer to the latest version of the City of Fairfax Fact Book.

If the store you are purchasing delivery or curb-side pickup is within the bounds of the City or a jurisdiction that has imposed the disposable plastic bag tax, than you ARE is subject to the $0.05 tax per plastic bag. 

However, if you live in the City and are ordering delivery or curb-side pickup from a store that is located in a jurisdiction that has NOT imposed the tax, then you are NOT subject to pay the $0.05 fee per plastic bag. 

The tax will be collected, administered, and enforced by the Virginia Tax Commissioner, in the same manner that the Retail Sales and Use Tax is administered. Following deductions from the retailer discount, and direct costs incurred by the Virginia Department of Taxation, the remaining revenue will be distributed to the city at the end of each month.

To contact the Virginia Department of Taxation or for more information, visit www.tax.virginia.gov or call (804) 367-8037 

• Participate in litter pickup activities 
• Compost your food waste. Learn more at www.fairfaxva.gov/composting  
• Recycle right. Learn more at www.fairfaxva.gov/recycling 

This tax applies to disposable plastic bags distributed to consumers at staffed checkout registers, self-checkout, online for delivery and/or curbside pickup from grocery stores, convenience stores, or drugstores to transport items not intended for reuse are subject to the $0.05 tax. 

The tax does not apply to the following items: 

• Paper bags
• Plastic bags that are solely used to wrap, contain, or package ice cream, meat, fish, poultry, produce, unwrapped bulk food items, or perishable food items in order to avoid damage or contamination 
• Plastic bags used to carry dry cleaning or prescription drugs
• Multiple plastic bags sold in packages and intended for use as garbage, pet waste, or yard waste. Yard waste is no longer allowed to be disposed of in plastic bags. All yard waste must be placed in reusable containers labeled "Yard Waste", placed in paper bags, or bundled (e.g. branches and sticks that are cut into lengths of 4 feet or less can be bundled with natural fiber twine).

The tax shall be collected by retailers in grocery stores, convenience stores and drug stores. Definitions for each are included in the Virginia Department of Taxation final guidelines and are included below:

• “Grocery stores” - establishments that have an enclosed room in a permanent structure and that sells food and other items intended for consumption. This definition does not include food banks, farmers markets, or mobile food units. 
• “Drug stores” - establishments that sells medicines prepared by a licensed pharmacist pursuant to a prescription and other medicines and items for home and general use. 
• “Convenience stores” - establishments that (1) have an enclosed room in a permanent structure where stock is displayed and offered for sale and (2) maintains an inventory of edible items intended for human consumption consisting of a variety of such items of the types normally sold in grocery stores. Affected retailers include convenience stores that also sell gasoline. 

Yes.  You may contact Purchasing Agent at 703-385-7875 or email procurement@fairfaxva.gov to schedule an appointment.

All sealed responses are due in the Department of Finance, 10455 Armstrong Street, Suite 312, Fairfax, VA  22030.  Electronic responses will not be accepted.

Please send your W-9 federal tax identification form to w9@fairfaxva.gov for the City to process your invoices.

You can email questions on a solicitation to procurment@fairfaxva.gov and enter the solicitation number on the subject line of the email.

You may contact Accounts Payable at 703-385-7873 or email AccountsPayable@fairfaxva.gov.

You may contact Purchasing Agent at 703-385-7875 or email procurement@fairfaxva.gov.

Scheduled pre-bid meetings, pre-proposal meetings, published bid openings, and proposal or bid due dates will default to the next open business day at the same time.

You can find current solicitation on the City of Fairfax website and the Commonwealth of Virginia eProcurement portal.

https://www.fairfaxva.gov/government/finance/current-procurement-opportunities

https://m.vendor.epro.cgipdc.com/Vendor/public/AllOpportunities

All invoices and statements shall be sent to AccountsPayable@fairfaxva.gov or mailed to the following address:

CITY OF FAIRFAX
ATTN: ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
10455 ARMSTRONG STREET, SUITE 312
FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA 22030

The City enforces the Property Maintenance Code which contains the minimum requirements and standards for the maintenance of existing residential and nonresidential structures and all existing premises. Contact Code Administration at 703-385-7830 or visit our website for more information.

The Department of Public Works issues hauling permits for over-sized vehicles and right-of-way permits for disturbances within the roadways. 

All private construction of utilities, parking lots, streets, roads, sidewalks, trails and other public improvements required as a condition of site plan approval must be inspected and accepted by the City. Before beginning any work, the contractor must participate in a pre-construction meeting with the City’s representative. To schedule a pre-construction meeting or inspections, contact our Inspector’s office at 703-385-7828 or email PW-inspectors@fairfaxva.gov.

Any land disturbing activity that will exceed 2,500 square feet of disturbed area requires an erosion and sediment control and grading plan submission. If you have a project that may exceed 2,500 square feet of disturbed area, please contact the Department of Community Development and Zoning at 703-385-7820 for plan submittal details.

Real estate may be assessed for more than the sales price because the assessment reflects “fair market value.” Fair market value is not necessarily the price paid for a particular property, but rather what it is worth in a competitive and open market under all condition’s requisite to a fair sale.  A sale may be below market value if the owners were in financial distress and needed to sell quickly, lowering the price beyond what they might have otherwise accepted. Selling a property at an amount simply sufficient to cover the mortgage would be another example of a distress sale not reflecting fair market value. The real estate market changes throughout the year, and the property value may have gone up since the date of purchase. 2024 assessments were based primarily on 2023 sales. 2025 assessments will be based primarily on 2024 sales.

If you disagree with your assessment, you may submit an administrative appeal whereby a staff appraiser and/or Director will review the calculation of your assessment and determine if a correction or revision is necessary. Administrative appeal forms can be downloaded from the following link Administrative Appeal Form. The deadline for filing an administrative appeal is in April of each year.

You may also appeal to the Board of Equalization (BOE). BOE appeal forms can be downloaded from the City’s real estate web site at following link Board of Equalization Appeals Form. The deadline for filing a BOE appeal is typically, June 30 of each year.

There are approximately 8,190 taxable residential properties in the City of Fairfax, and the overall average assessment increase was about 2.98% from 2023.  For the 1122 taxable commercial/industrial/multi-family properties, the overall average increased 6.62%.  However, market activity varies from one neighborhood to another, and from one property type to another, and as a result the percentage of change in assessment is also variable. For example, in 2023, assessments on single-family homes changed anywhere from 0% to +15%, depending on the sales activity within a particular neighborhood.

How Information is Obtained

To determine the value of a property, the appraisal staff obtains and maintains many different types of information. The assessor's office keeps on file a property record card listing the physical characteristics of each property and its condition. This card is a matter of public record and may be reviewed at any time.
Property selling price in the City is an important factor in determining assessment values. The assessor's office regularly researches property transfer records, which are recorded at the Land Records Office in the Fairfax County Judicial Center.
Other types of information used in determining the value of commercial, industrial and special purpose properties include current building replacement costs, the operating and maintenance costs of various types of property, and rental rates certain properties can be expected to earn.

Estimating the Fair Market Value

The appraisal staff employs three universally accepted approaches in estimating market values, using the most appropriate for the type of property being appraised.  These are the Sales Comparison (or Market) Approach, the Income Approach, and the Cost Approach.

 Residential Properties – Based on the analysis of comparable sales data, fair market values for most residential properties are determined.  Recently sold properties are analyzed and adjusted for differences in order to estimate the values of properties which have not sold. This process is performed annually by appraisers using computer assisted mass appraisal (CAMA) techniques. 

 Commercial Properties - Properties such as shopping centers, office buildings, and apartment complexes are purchased based on future earning capacity.  These properties, therefore, are most often valued by the Income Approach, which recognizes the relationship between a property’s value and the income it is expected to earn.  Appraisers use certain market data and mathematical computations to translate anticipated future income into current fair market value. 

Special Purpose Properties – Properties that rarely sell, such as schools, churches, bank branches, and car dealerships, are valued by the Cost Approach. The current replacement cost of the building, less accrued depreciation, plus the value of the land as determined by recent sales, results in an estimate of market value.

-Base - $1.025 per $100 of assessed value
-Commercial Real Estate (Transportation) – additional $0.125 per $100 of assessed value
-Old Town Service District – additional $0.04 per $100 of assessed value

You are provided an annual notice which serves as an official statement of the assessed value of your real estate for local tax purposes. This is done in accordance with Section 58.1-3330 of the Code of Virginia.

The real estate assessment indicated on the notice represents the estimated fair market value of your property as of January 1 of each year. This notice is not a tax bill. The assessed value is the basis for your real estate taxes which will be due on June 21 and December 5.

Steps to view/print property tax payment information:

• Go to Online Payment Portal
• Select Yes, I accept
• Select the information requested from the pull down menus
  • Tax Year - individual year or ALL
  • Pay Status - unpaid, paid or Both
  • Tax Type - Real Estate or Personal Property/Business Personal Property
  • Search By
    • The searches vary by which tax type you chose
      • Real Estate search by: Owner Name, Property ID Number, Account Number, Address or Tax Map ID.
      • Personal Property search by: SSN or Federal ID AND Mailing Address Zip Code
• A list of each installment for each year will appear.  Click on the view next to each payment you wish to see
• Choose View and Print Receipt at the top of the screen
• Use your browser to print (usually CNTRL P)

Due to the high number of these requests we ask that you please try our website before calling our office.

Yes, sign up for Fairfax City Alerts and never miss a tax due date!

Customize Tax Due Date Notifications.  You choose: by text, e-mail, mobile app, or phone.

Go to Fairfax City Alert portal

• Create a profile with a personal username and password, accept terms and create your account.

Log in then on right side is My Subscriptions click Edit to set up FAIRFAX CITY TAX DUE DATE ALERTS

• Click City Government
• Click Blue + plus sign
• Select Personal Property Tax & Decal Reminders, Real Estate Tax Reminders, Student Tax Reminders, and/or others as you prefer
• Click on the heading City Government
• Click SAVE

January 15 - 4th quarter (previous year) Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

March 1 - Business License Tax Due

April 15 - Federal Income Tax Returns Due (Personal)

May 1 - 1st quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

May 1 - Virginia Income Tax Returns Due (Personal)

June 15 - 2nd quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

June 21 - 1st installment Real Estate Tax Due

September 15 - 3rd quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

October 5 - Personal Property Tax and Motor Vehicle License Tax (MVLT) Due

November 15 - Motor Vehicle Decal must be displayed

December 5 - 2nd installment Real Estate Tax Due

The City provides recycling bins upon request. E-mail RefuseRecycling@fairfaxva.gov or call (703) 385-7837.

The City provides special refuse/recycling services for older adults or people with disabilities. Call (703) 385-7837 for information.

Residents may take their household hazardous waste to one of the permanent collection sites listed on the website. Household hazardous waste refers to used or leftover contents of consumer products that contain materials with one of the four characteristics of a hazardous waste: toxic, ignitable, corrosive, or reactive.

No call in necessary. The City of Fairfax provides weekly curbside collection of refuse, recycling, brush, yard waste, large items and debris for all residents living in single family homes and town-homes.

Stop by the Public Works Department Office (Room 200) at Fairfax City Hall (10455 Armstrong Street) to receive a FREE kitchen compost caddy that you can use to collect your food scraps and transport them to the Composting Center.  The Public Works office is open Monday - Friday from 8:30am to 5pm.

Fairfax City has opened a new pilot 24-hour Composting Center at City Hall, adjacent to the Community Garden. Those who live and work in the city are invited to drop off food scraps in the composting carts at the center. 

Large amounts of bulky material such as drywall, asphalt shingles, brick, and lumber will be picked up if it is placed in separated piles at the curb. Small amounts of debris must be placed in trash cans weighing no more than sixty pounds. Waste generated from work by a contractor must be removed by the contractor.

Yes. Place large items and household appliances behind the curb no more than 24 hours before collection day. Place items away from parked vehicles, low hanging limbs and wires.

Yes, every owner or tenant of any commercial or industrial premises protected by an operative security alarm system is required to obtain a security alarm permit.

• A one-time fee of $25 is charged for the permit
• A penalty of $50 will be assessed against the commercial or industrial owner or tenant of any premises with an operative alarm system who fails to obtain a permit. 
• Every alarm system owner is allowed two false alarms annually.
  • A service charge of $100 is assessed for the third false alarm,
  • $150 for the fourth false alarm,
  • $200 for the fifth false alarm,
  • $250 for the sixth false alarm,
  • $300 for the seventh false alarm,
  • $350 for the eighth false alarm, and
  • $500 for the ninth false alarm and each false alarm thereafter in each calendar year.

 Alarm Permit Applications are available online or through the Treasurer’s Office.  Please read the second page of the application for further instructions.

• Every alarm system owner (including residential property) is allowed two false alarms annually.
  • A service charge of $100 is assessed for the third false alarm,
  • $150 for the fourth false alarm,
  • $200 for the fifth false alarm,
  • $250 for the sixth false alarm,
  • $300 for the seventh false alarm,
  • $350 for the eighth false alarm, and
  • $500 for the ninth false alarm and each false alarm thereafter in each calendar year.

Alarm Permit Applications are available online or through the Treasurer’s Office.  Please read the second page of the application for further instructions.

To request a new curb cut contact the office of the facilities inspector at 703.385.7828 or by emailing charlie.shillingburg@fairfaxva.gov or billi.guillen@fairfaxva.gov.

To request a new sidewalk refer to the City's Policy and Procedure for Residential New Concrete Sidewalk or contact the city engineer at 703.246.6330 or email.

To report weather-related issues, icy road conditions, or downed limbs in the public right-of-way call the Snow Desk at 703-385-2629.

The City crews clear the primary routes first to assure that emergency vehicles can get where they are going safely. Once the snow tapers off or stops crews are sent into subdivision streets. All attempts are made to vary the order in which subdivision streets are plowed from storm to storm so that the last streets to be plowed are not always the same ones.

Report potholes in the City of Fairfax by calling the Streets Division at 703-385-7980.

Most city streetlights are maintained by Dominion Virginia Power. To report electric streets lights that are not working property call the streets division at 703-385-7980 and they will report it to DVP. For gas lights in Old Town Fairfax call 703-385-7995.

To request new curb and gutters contact the City Engineer at 703-246-6330. Requests for new curb and gutter will be considered in conjunction with the storm drainage requests.

Please clear and treat sidewalks promptly for safe pedestrian access. While clearing driveways, pile now off the street to the left of the driveway (facing the driveway), and consider waiting until after plows clear the road adjacent to your driveway.

Yes, the City of Fairfax has teamed with a third-party vendor to offer online tax payments.  After you choose the tax bill(s) that you wish to pay, you will be offered multiple ways to pay those taxes. 

By going to https://eservices.fairfaxva.gov/taxes to pay online.  You will be asked to choose your method of payment after you have chosen which bill(s) you wish to pay.

Payment Options available

eCheck provides quick and easy electronic transfer of funds from your existing bank account for payment.  You tell us your bank account number, bank routing number, and amount, and we handle the transfer electronically.  A $1.50 fee is charged for this method.  You are given a confirmation of your payment and all information is electronically secured.

Credit cards are another payment option we offer.  We can accept American Express, Visa, Master Card, and Discover cards for all personal property, MVLT, and real property tax payments.  A convenience fee is charged for the use of credit cards.  (The convenience fee is not charged by or paid to the City of Fairfax.)

PayPal is a payment option being offered if you have an existing PayPal account.  A convenience fee is charged for the use of PayPal.  (The convenience fee is not charged by or paid to the City of Fairfax.)

Debit and Forget it is a Real Estate only pre-payment ACH (Debit) option being offered.  You can set the payments up on based on your schedule (weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, annually).  A $1.50 fee is charged per ACH.  See the Debit and Forget It webpage page for more details.   

There are 4 easy ways to pay your taxes:

Check - made payable to City of Fairfax

• Mail (send to: 10455 Armstrong Street, Suite 234, Fairfax, VA 22030)
• Dropbox (outside City Hall in front near Armstrong Street and along the side near University Drive)
• Treasurer's Office (inside City Hall)

Electronic Check (E-check)*

• Online

Credit/Debit Card*

• Online
• Treasurer's Office (inside City Hall)
• Telephone (call the Treasurer's Office for pay-by-phone instructions) 703-385-7905

Cash

• Treasurer's Office (inside City Hall)

*A convenience fee is charged for credit/debit cards (approx. 2.5%)and electronic checks ($1.50); the convenience fee is not charged by or paid to the City of Fairfax.

Steps to view/print property tax payment information:

• Go to Online Payment Portal
• Select Yes, I accept
• Select the information requested from the pull down menus
  • Tax Year - individual year or ALL
  • Pay Status - unpaid, paid or Both
  • Tax Type - Real Estate or Personal Property/Business Personal Property
  • Search By
    • The searches vary by which tax type you chose
      • Real Estate search by: Owner Name, Property ID Number, Account Number, Address or Tax Map ID.
      • Personal Property search by: SSN or Federal ID AND Mailing Address Zip Code
• A list of each installment for each year will appear.  Click on the view next to each payment you wish to see
• Choose View and Print Receipt at the top of the screen
• Use your browser to print (usually CNTRL P)

Due to the high number of these requests we ask that you please try our website before calling our office.

Yes, sign up for Fairfax City Alerts and never miss a tax due date!

Customize Tax Due Date Notifications.  You choose: by text, e-mail, mobile app, or phone.

Go to Fairfax City Alert portal

• Create a profile with a personal username and password, accept terms and create your account.

Log in then on right side is My Subscriptions click Edit to set up FAIRFAX CITY TAX DUE DATE ALERTS

• Click City Government
• Click Blue + plus sign
• Select Personal Property Tax & Decal Reminders, Real Estate Tax Reminders, Student Tax Reminders, and/or others as you prefer
• Click on the heading City Government
• Click SAVE

January 15 - 4th quarter (previous year) Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

March 1 - Business License Tax Due

April 15 - Federal Income Tax Returns Due (Personal)

May 1 - 1st quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

May 1 - Virginia Income Tax Returns Due (Personal)

June 15 - 2nd quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

June 21 - 1st installment Real Estate Tax Due

September 15 - 3rd quarter Virginia Estimated Income Tax Due

October 5 - Personal Property Tax and Motor Vehicle License Tax (MVLT) Due

November 15 - Motor Vehicle Decal must be displayed

December 5 - 2nd installment Real Estate Tax Due

To report a problem with a traffic signs or pavement markings call 703-385-7987 or email.

To report a malfunctioning traffic signal call 703-385-7987 between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or 703-385-7924 at all other times. For questions or suggestions about signal operation call 703-385-7987 or email.

If you are interested in working as an election officer for the City, Please visit our Office of Election page.  If you are interested in working for a candidate, please contact the appropriate party.

If you have an ID issued from the DMV, you can register online at www.vote.elections.virginia.gov. If you need further assistance, contact us at (703) 385-7891.

Still registered in Fairfax City? In-person absentee voting is available 45 days before each election in the Office of Elections including Saturdays right before the election. You can absentee vote by completing an application at www.vote.elections.virginia.gov.

Did you register at a school in Virginia? Visit www.vote.virginia.gov to find your polling place at school.

Did you register at a school outside of Virginia? Follow the directions of that state and locality.

Complete an application at www.vote.elections.virginia.gov or call (703) 385-7891 and we’ll mail you one. In-person absentee voting is available 45 days before each election in the Office of Elections including Saturdays right before the election.

Find all the information you need here including required documents and rules for campaign finance, visit our Run for Office page.

Virginia has general elections in November every year. In addition there are likely June primaries every year. The City general election for local offices is always in November of even numbered years and the Presidential Preference Primary is the first Tuesday of March every four years. In the year of a presidential election, there are typically three elections in which to participate.

You must update your registration. If you don’t, you may not be able to vote. You can register online at www.vote.elections.virginia.gov

Check to make sure you are registered: www.vote.elections.virginia.gov

For a map of City precincts, please visit City Polling Location page.

Wastewater service laterals are private utilities and Public Works does not maintain records on the location and depth of these utilities.  If your property was developed under a site plan or you have a property plat, the service lateral may be shown on these documents.  The location of public sewer main and manholes are available on the Interactive Mapper, a GIS web application.

Public Works does not have precise location and depth/elevation information.  If this information is necessary for project design, it can be obtained through a private field survey.

The City Council approved an amendment to the Wastewater Utility Ordinance during the Public Hearing held on January 10, 2017. The amendment creates a “Wastewater lateral repair and replacement charge” to become effective on April 1, 2017 for the purpose of reimbursing customers for repair of laterals within the City rights-of-way and for replacement of pipe using conventional or trenchless technology. For more information visit the Wastewater Lateral Repair and Replacement Program webpage.

Fairfax Water provides all wastewater billing and account services for the City. Billing related questions or concerns and requests to begin or end services should be presented to Fairfax Water at 703-698-5800. For more information regarding wastewater bills, please visit the Fairfax Water Sewer Charges and Taxes page.

State law requires that all underground utilities be marked prior to start of any work requiring excavation. You can have utilities marked by Calling Miss Utility by dialing 811. Underground utilities are color-coded. For example blue represents water lines and green represents wastewater lines. 

See https://va811.com/ for more information.  Please note that only underground utilities that are owned by member organizations are marked.  Private utilities such as wastewater laterals, electric, gas, & domestic water services past the meter, wiring for privately maintained lights, and irrigation systems will not be marked under a Miss Utility locate request.  Private utility locators can provide this service if necessary.

New connection fees are charged on a one time basis when a customer desires to connect to the City sanitary sewer system. New connection fees are based on the type of the premises. For more information visit the Wastewater New Connection Fee webpage.

Property owners are responsible for the maintenance, repair and replacement of their lateral to the public sewer main, including any portion within City Right-of-Way.  The City is responsible for the sewer mains and manholes in Right-of-Way and easements.  If you are having a wastewater issue, contact a licensed plumber to help determine the nature and extent of the problem.

Public Works will mow and clear public wastewater easements throughout the year, as weather and scheduling permit. These easements are located on private property and provide the City with access permissions for maintenance of underground wastewater conveyance piping and manholes. Regular mowing and clearing ensures that access is available in the event that maintenance is necessary. Residents who have questions or concerns can call the Public Works Wastewater Division at 703-385-7915.

You need a Temporary Use Permit from the Zoning Office.

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

As part of the application review staff will determine if replacement is required.

See the Tree Removal Guide for more information.

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

For each office suite you need a Zoning Permit for Commercial Use and Occupancy from the Zoning Office.  You will only need to pay the application fee of $70 for one suite and a permit will be issued for both suites. 

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

• You need a Zoning Permit/Non-Land disturbing from the Zoning Office.
• You need a Certificate of Appropriateness for architectural approval from the Zoning Office.
• You need a Building Permit from the Office of Building Code Administration.

 If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

You need to call the Commissioner of Revenue, 703-385-7885, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong St, Ste. 224.

Information:

• The owner of the sign must either remove the sign or replace it with a blank face within 60 days of the business closing.

You need a Zoning Permit for Commercial Use and Occupancy from the Zoning Office.

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

Information:

• The owner of the sign must either remove the sign or replace it with a blank face within 60 days of the business closing.

With an account you will have the added benefits of applying for a permit, seeing a complete history of applications, access to invoices and receipts, view details on the review status of applications in your collection, and more from the convenience of your home or office, 24 hours a day. Account registration is not required for a general search the status of projects and applications.  The search results will provide the project location and review status.

1. Open your web browser and navigate to Permit Portal homepage.
2. On the login page, click “New Users: Register for an Account”.
3. After reading the registration disclaimer, click on the check box to accept the terms for online access to Public Portal and click the Continue Registration to continue the registration process.
4. Complete your account details with the required information. Fields marked with the asterisk symbol (*) are required and must be entered to continue.
5. Click Add New to add your contact information.
   1. Select your Contact Type and click Continue Registration. “Individual” refers to a single-person applicant. “Organization” refers a company, firm, or similar group acting as an applicant.
   2. Complete contact information and click Continue.
6. Once you have completed you contact information, you will be prompted to complete a security check.
7. Click Continue Registration.
8. After the registration is complete you will receive an email confirming the registration process.
9. You may return to the login page and log into your account.

• Commercial Land Disturbing (for changes to area outside of buildings)
• Commercial Non-Land disturbing (for changes to existing buildings only)
• Commercial Use & Occupancy (for businesses in commercial buildings)
• Minor Home Occupation (for businesses at home)
• Accessory Dwelling Unit (for two residences in one home)
• Keeping Chickens (eggs for personal use)
• Keeping of Honey Bees (honey for personal use)
• Permanent Sign (for businesses)
• Tree Removal (for single-family lot)
• Tree Removal (other than for single-family lot)

For applications not currently available through this system visit the applications for download webpage. Over the coming months, we will continue to incorporate additional permit types to this portal. 

Before finalizing the online submission process you will be prompted to pay applicable fees using either Visa, American Express, Mastercard, Discover or your checking account.

• Commercial Land Disturbing - $70
• Commercial Non-Land disturbing - $70
• Commercial Use & Occupancy - $70
• Minor Home Occupation - $35
• Accessory Dwelling Unit - $35
• Keeping Chickens - $35
• Keeping of Honey Bees - $35
• Tree Removal (single family lot) - $20
• Tree Removal (other) - $75

To confirm applicable fees, please check the Development & Zoning Fee Schedule page.

Please be advised that the Permit Portal website does not currently support  smartphones and tablets.  To register for a user account, submit a permit request, and track progress, please use a personal computer.

1. Open your web browser and navigate to the Permit Portal homepage
2. You do not need to be registered to search permit/address/parcel/owner information in permit portal.
3. Use the keyword search field.
4. Enter the address The search result can be refined by using the drop-down field next to “Records”. Click on the record number to view record details.
5. Searching on the building or planning tab will return only those types of permits.
6. Applications you have created in the permit portal will display in the “Records” section.

For additional information, please reference the Public Portal User Guide.

For applications not currently available through this system visit the applications for download webpage. Over the coming months, we will continue to incorporate additional permit types to this portal.

Subdivision is a process that requires professionals (such as a civil engineer, surveyor, arborist, and attorney) to prepare subdivision construction plans, plat and deed demonstrating compliance with City zoning and subdivision ordinances as well as the Public Facilities Manual. The construction plans will need to show that the required curb, gutter and 5-foot wide sidewalk either currently exist or will be provided. The construction plans will also need to show compliance with State-mandated stormwater quality improvements (called Best Management Practices), required utility connections, design for  adequate stormwater outfall, compliance with the 10-year tree canopy requirements and appropriate erosion & sediment control measures.

Zoning ordinance §3.6 lists minimum lot size and lot width requirements for each zoning district. In most cases the lot width requirement will be the constraining factor rather than lot size.

 If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

Depends on how long the renter is going to stay. 

• If you own your home and would like to offer rentals for up to 14 days you’ll need a Special Use Permit to operate a Bed & Breakfast.  You can obtain the special use permit through the Zoning office.  It may take 4-6 months to obtain the final approval and the application fees begin at $600. 

• Rentals that are less than 30 days are not allowed.  These types of rentals are frequently made available through websites  such as an Airbnb, Flipkey, and HomeAway, just to name a few. 

• Rentals of more than 30 days are allowed.  You will need to obtain a Business License from the Commissioner of the Revenue before advertising your rooms are for rent.  You will also need to obtain a Rental Occupancy Permit from the Building Code office.

 If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

You need a Zoning Permit for Accessory Residential Use & Occupancyfrom the Zoning Office.  If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

Information:

• Only an area of the home not exceeding 20% of the first floor can be used for business purposes such as a minor home occupation (MHO). 

• Allowed activities include providing business information and accepting requests for services by phone or internet, and handling billing and payments. 

• Only a family member residing in the home can be involved in the business activity. 

• The MHO activity cannot change the outside appearance of the home or generate more traffic than normal for a single-family home. 

• Under certain conditions student instruction can be allowed as an MHO, otherwise, clients and customers may not be accepted at the home. 

• In-home commercial kitchens require approval from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/dairy-kitchen-food-services-businesses.shtml .

• One commercial vehicle of a weight less than 9,000 pounds or one commercial trailer can be kept on a surfaced area such as the driveway of the MHO property.

In most cases a tree removal permit is required. See the Tree Removal Guide for more information.

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

A plat is a surveyor’s drawing of a property, its boundaries and all pertinent structures. Usually a plat from the title company is provided to the purchaser of property during the sales transaction closing process. If not, you will probably need to contact a Virginia state licensed surveyor to prepare one. The City does not generate plats.

Sheds are 80 square foot or smaller one-story storage structures. If they are not located in a floodplain or a Chesapeake Bay Resource Protection Area and the property is zoned RL, RM or RH, they can be placed on your property in any part of the side (interior) or rear yard behind the rear wall of the principal dwelling without City approval provided the shed does NOT exceed 8 feet 6 inches in height.

See the Information Guide for Sheds & Storage Structures for more information. 

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

If the property is located in the RL, RM or RH zoning district, see the Information Guide for Sheds & Storage Structures in Residential Districts (RL, RM and RH). If the property is not in one of these districts, contact Zoning staff who will need to research to see if different rules were adopted back with the original rezoning case.

If the property comes under the Information Guide, is not located in a floodplain or a Chesapeake Bay Resource Protection Area (RPA), does not require a building permit and all the zoning requirements are met, no zoning permit is needed.

Any other accessory structure such as an attached carport, detached garage or private outdoor recreation building over 256 square feet in area will require both zoning and building permit approval.

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

You need a Zoning Permit for a Permanent Sign.

 If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

Information: The only sign allowed on the sidewalk is called an “A-frame” or “sandwich board” sign that is constructed of durable materials and has two flat faces, with or without changeable copy.

Regulations

• Up to six square feet per face
• One per business or use
• Placed adjacent to the business’ front building wall and up to 10 feet from the wall
• Not allowed on grass or in parking area
• Not on display when store is closed
• Not allowed if business is in residential areas

Temporary sign permits are not required for any site, business or use that has a direct public entrance on a building frontage in a nonresidential district. Up to 32 square feet of temporary message signage may be displayed for up to 90 days per year without a permit.  More information.

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

Electronic “Open/Closed” signs are allowed without getting a permit.  The sign may be up to two square feet in size.  Signs with letters and lights that move in any way (ie blink, spin, flash or otherwise move) are not allowed.

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.

• You need a Permanent Sign Permit from the Zoning Office.
• You need a Certificate of Appropriateness for architectural approval from the Zoning Office if the building is in the Old Town Fairfax Historic and Transition Districts. 

If you need assistance call 703-385-7820, or visit the office at 10455 Armstrong Street, Ste 207A.