ADU rules in Virginia
Representative cities: Virginia Beach, Richmond.
ADU permit rule
Permit requiredGenerally allowedcity authority
Fee basis
Building permit based on valuation plus a 2% state levy (Virginia Beach); verify with the city.
Typical timeline
Residential plan review ~10 business days for new construction; zoning first.
Setback
Follow local zoning (state law requires localities to allow ADUs in single-family zones); confirm with the city.
Area threshold
No state size exemption — ADUs are habitable accessory structures.
Exempt if
None — ADUs require a building permit and zoning approval.
Go / no-go
allowed
Virginia law requires localities to allow ADUs in single-family zoning. A USBC building permit and zoning approval are required. Henrico lists ADUs as permit-required.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Virginia?
Per Virginia rules, an ADU is "yes" for a permit and the authority is "city". Virginia law requires localities to allow ADUs in single-family zoning. A USBC building permit and zoning approval are required. Henrico lists ADUs as permit-required. Always confirm with the issuing building department.
How big can an ADU be in Virginia?
Area threshold: No state size exemption — ADUs are habitable accessory structures.
What are the ADU setbacks in Virginia?
Setback: Follow local zoning (state law requires localities to allow ADUs in single-family zones); confirm with the city.
How much does an ADU permit cost in Virginia?
Fee basis: Building permit based on valuation plus a 2% state levy (Virginia Beach); verify with the city.
State-wide sources: Virginia DHCD — Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) · Prince William County — Do I Need a Permit? (VUSBC) · City of Richmond — Guide to Being a Good Neighbor (permits) · Henrico County — When a Building Permit is Required
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ADU build cost calculator
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Rental ROI and payback
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Financing comparison
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