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1. What is the current residential building code edition enforced in New Kent County and how long will it be in effect?

The 2018 edition of the Virginia Residential Code is currently being enforced. It is based on the 2018 ICC International Residential Code. The Virginia Residential Code is the detached one and two family dwelling portion of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. All jurisdictions in the Commonwealth of Virginia enforce the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) 2018 edition. The 2018 USBC became effective July 1, 2022.

2. Do I need a permit?

Whenever you construct, reconstruct, enlarge, alter, or demolish a structure, a permit is required prior to starting the work.

There are several types of permits that might be necessary for any residential project depending on the scope of work being done:

Building Permit
Electrical Permit
Gas Permit
Mechanical Permit
Plumbing Permit
Demolition Permit

3. What happens if I build the structure without a building permit?

The responsible party will be required to submit construction documents showing the extent of the work, a building permit will be issued "after the fact," and an inspector will determine if any of the elements of the construction must be exposed to see if the work complies with the code. The responsible party may be required to undo any portion of the completed work to prove that the work meets code. After the work has been inspected and approved, the structure can be legally occupied.

4. What are the county setback requirements for my house or garage?

The county setback requirements are administered by the County Planning Department. They can be reached by calling (804) 966-9690.

5. How long is a permit good for?

All permits are valid for six months from the time that the permit is issued. Every time that there is an inspection on the project, the permit extends for another six months.

6. How do I schedule an inspection?

Periodically throughout the construction process, the homeowner/contractor has to request an inspection before the work can proceed. The homeowner/contractor must request an inspection. There are two ways to request these inspections:

Call (804) 966-8572, the Inspection Line: whereby you can request an inspection;
Call (804)966-9680, to speak to a customer service representative, and request your inspection;

Please be sure all the work is completed to the point of the requested inspection.

7. Why do I have to wait until the next working day to get my inspection?

The building code requires the County to make an inspection within two working days after receiving a request to inspect. Our policy provides that, under normal circumstances, we will make the inspection within one working day after receiving the request.

Each morning at 8 a.m., inspectors are assigned their workload, which consists of inspection tickets for requests received the previous day as well as other assignments. In addition to their daily inspection workload, inspectors often have other duties to attend to, including court appearances, training, and issuing enforcement notices. In order to balance the requirements on their time, inspectors must arrange their workday before leaving our offices each morning. This includes routing their inspection ticket workload for the greatest efficiency. Therefore, each inspector's workload is predetermined at the beginning of each workday. This allows the greatest optimization of our resources and facilitates a better inspection process.

8. When can I receive a Certificate of Occupancy for my new single family dwelling?

A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is issued the next business day after your final inspection and ready for pickup after 3:00pm. CO's will not be faxed or emailed under any circumstances.