The Frederick County Building Inspections Department exists to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the county's citizenry as it relates to the construction, use and design of buildings.

No construction may begin until a proper building permit has been approved and issued by the building official and zoning administrator and all fees paid. No new structure may be lawfully occupied without a certificate of occupancy from the department.

Notice of Permit Fee Increase Effective July 1, 2026

Beginning July 1, 2026, permit fees for the Building Inspections Department will increase in accordance with the adopted fee schedule.

Applications submitted on or after July 1, 2026, will be subject to the new fee schedule. Applications received prior to July 1, 2026, will be processed under the current fee schedule. See new fee schedule here.

Please contact the Building Inspections Department with any questions regarding permit fees or application requirements.

Hours of Operation

Applications for residential and commercial permits may be dropped off from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding scheduled holidays). Permits are issued 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Statewide Building Code and Supplements

The office is responsible for enforcing the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and the following supplements to this which are: 2020 National Electrical Code, 2021 International Building Code, 2021 International Plumbing Code, 2021 International Mechanical Code, 2021 International Fuel Code, 2021 International Energy Conservation Code, 2021 International Residential Code, 2021 Edition USBC Code, ICC A 117.1-2017 Standards for Accessibility and Usable Buildings and Facilities.