Temporary Tent Permitting & Inspection Process

Streamlined to Save Customers Time & Money

The Department of Development Services’ Building Development Division, in partnership with the Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO), today announced a new inspection process for temporary tents, effective July 1, 2026. The updated procedure removes redundant oversight, accelerates approvals, and eliminates specific inspection fees for local businesses and residents.

Changes in operations will authorize County building inspectors to conduct routine fire code inspections for temporary tents, during their scheduled routines. This eliminates the need for separate, sequential visits from both entities, optimizing County staffing resources and accelerating project timelines.

The initiative originated directly from frontline County employees who identified the operational duplication and proposed the solution to leadership. "Our teams are continuously looking to find efficiencies and improve processes, especially where departmental responsibilities overlap," said Ricky O’Connor, Acting Director, Department of Development Services.

"This employee-led initiative cuts red tape, better utilizes County personnel, and ultimately saves our customers both time and money," shared Tom LaBelle, Chief, Department of Fire & Rescue.

Key Program Details and Fee Reductions

• Fee Elimination: The FMO 149 inspection fee (FMO building/tent final inspection), scheduled to be $303.45 for Fiscal Year 2027, is permanently waived.
• Zero-Cost Exceptions: In scenarios where an FMO inspection remains mandatory, the County will not assess a fee.

Scope and Safety Exceptions

• The Fire Marshal’s Office will retain inspection authority for high-risk or large-scale structures, including but not limited to, cooking operations, fuel-powered heating appliances, fuel storge (LP Tanks) within or adjacent to tents, structures exceeding 5,400 square feet or accommodating more than 300 occupants, and other complex conditions requiring specialized fire code interpretation.

Find more information on www.pwcva.gov at Temporary Tents. Customers can access updated permitting guidelines and application forms starting July 1, 2026, online through ePortal. If you have questions, please contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at (703) 792-6360 or email FMOAdmin@pwcgov.org.

Prince William County Outlines

Clear Path for Group Home

Zoning Approvals

Before opening a Group Home in Prince William County, zoning approval is required. Please review these key highlights to ensure your application is processed without delay:

• Eligibility: Your facility must be licensed by the VA Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services or the VA Department of Social Services.
• Occupancy Limits: Maximum of eight (8) residents (plus staff).
• How to Apply:
• Online: Use ePortal under "Zoning Approval – Certificate of Zoning Approval."
• In-Person: Check in at the Early Assistance Desk (5 County Complex Court) between 8:00 am - 2:00 pm.
• Next Steps: Once Zoning Approval is granted, you must submit your application to the Building Development Division for a building review and schedule a mandatory inspection with the Fire Marshal’s Office.

For questions, please email zoningcounters@pwcgov.org.

Learn More

Planning a Pool or Hot Tub?

Access the Updated Zoning Approval Guidelines

Residents looking to dive into summer projects are reminded that zoning approval is required for all in-ground pools, above-ground pools, and hot tubs.

To ensure a smooth permitting process, Development Services' Land Development Division has released a streamlined four-step guide for homeowners and contractors.

"Safety starts before the first hole is dug," said County officials. "By requiring a formal zoning review, we ensure that critical protections—like proper fencing, structural setbacks, and utility clearances—are in place to protect our families and the community."

How to Get Started

Not sure where your property stands? You can research your specific zoning using the County Mapper, then visit pwcva.gov, here. If you have questions about your specific project, the Zoning Counters are ready to help at (703) 792-6830. They can verify exactly what’s required for your land so you can start growing with confidence.

The application window for the Prince William County Foundation and Soil Management Fund Ordinance initiative to help residential homeowners cover the costs of repairing foundation and slope failures caused by original construction defects, closes June 15, 2026.

How to Apply

1. Prepare: Consult with a professional engineer to determine the cause of failure.
2. Submit: Review the Fund and Soil Management Fund Ordinance webpage for all submission requirements.
3. Review: Applications are evaluated based on damage severity, project readiness, and cost-effectiveness.

Questions?

Contact FoundationSoilFund@pwcgov.org.

Do I Need a Permit?

A permit is required for all projects to construct, enlarge, alter, move, repair a building or change occupancy load, or any outside area being used as part of the building's designated occupancy, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, which are regulated by codes.

5 County Complex Ct

Prince William, VA 22192

(703) 792-6930 (TTY: 711)

Mon – Fri 8am – 4pm