Prince William County Eliminates Local Home Improvement License to Cut Red Tape for Contractors

Prince William County has officially eliminated its local Home Improvement Contractor License (HICL) requirement.

The Prince William Board of County Supervisors voted unanimously to approve the repeal on July 7, 2026, passing Ordinance No. 26-45.

This strategic move aligns with the County’s ongoing initiative to streamline development processes, remove redundant regulatory hurdles, and foster a more business-friendly environment.

An internal review of the County's development services revealed that the local license created unnecessary duplicity. The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation’s (DPOR) Board for Contractors already provides a robust framework for contractor licensing, enforcement, and consumer protection.

While local licensing paperwork is gone, consumer safety and construction standards remain strict. Contractors must continue to:

• Hold valid state contractor licenses and specialty designations through DPOR.
• Maintain a standard Prince William County Business License (BPOL).
• Secure all required building permits and pass site inspections through the Building Development Division.

Note: Due to the timing of the vote, the HICL fee line item will still appear in the printed Fiscal Year 2027 fee schedule. However, Prince William County has permanently stopped accepting or processing all HICL applications and renewals effective immediately.

Read More

We're Hiring,

Come Be A Leader With Us

Special Inspections Engineer

Closing Date: 08/26/26

Planner - Land Development

Closing Date: 08/28/26

Planner - Zoning

Closing Date: 09/01/26

Administrative Coordinator

Closing Date: 09/02/26



Boosting Local Business: 37 New Entrepreneurs Open Doors in Prince William County!

July was a milestone month for the Prince William County business community! Thanks to the Small Business Project Management (SBPM) Program, 37 local entrepreneurs officially received written authorization to "Open for Business."

Navigating commercial real estate, zoning laws, and building permits can be a daunting challenge for any new business. The SBPM program serves as a dedicated guide, helping small, independent business owners determine if their ideas align with local property regulations and walking them through the permitting pipeline.

To date, this powerhouse initiative has supported an impressive 3,132 independent businesses since its inception.

Learn More

Reminder: Third-party Building Inspection Certification Seminar: Wednesday, September 2

The next Third-party Building Inspection Certification Seminar will be held on Wednesday, September 2 at 10:30 am. To attend, please fill out the application form and email to BDD@pwcgov.org. A confirmation email will be sent providing details on how to attend.

Learn More

Build Your Better Driveway: The Right Way!

A new driveway is a major investment. To protect your home's value and our local environment, all expansions and second driveways require formal zoning approval before construction begins.

The "Must-Know" Rules

• Surface Matters: If your lot is under one acre, you must use concrete, asphalt, brick, or pavers.
• Front Yard Limits: Parking areas are capped at 35% or 720 sq. ft. of the required front yard (whichever is greater).
• Check the VDOT Connection: Adding a second driveway or expanding an apron? You’ll need a permit from VDOT (1-800-367-7623) before the county can sign off.

Visit the Zoning Counters Directory at www.pwcva.gov/zoning-counters for the complete details on the zoning approval process for all home improvements and more!

#ICYMI: New Fire Protection Permit

The Fire Marshal’s Office launched a new Fire Protection Permit (FPP) specifically designed for Emergency and Maintenance Repairs in July.

The ERP checklist, along with the Fire Protection Permit application form, are available immediately for download. For more information, call (703) 792-6924 or (703) 792-6360.

Read More

You're Invited to the 6th Annual Community Fair:

Saturday, September 12

Join us on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12 - 4:00 pm at the Sean Connaughton Plaza, Prince William County McCoart Government Complex, 1 County Complex Court, Woodbridge, VA for the Annual Community Fair hosted by Prince WiIliam County Police Department.

Our Building Code Compliance team will be joining forces to share in fun family activities and prize giveaways!

Learn More

A Guide to the Prince William County Home Employment Certificate

Running a business from your single-family home where customers or employees visit? You need a Home Employment Certificate.

For the complete guide visit Home Employment Certificate webpage. For more information, visit the Zoning Counter Directory, email zoningcounters@pwcgov.org or call (703) 792-6830.

A Guide to Separate Electrical

Meters for Detached Structures

Adding a separate electrical meter to a shed, workshop, or detached structure is a smart way to manage utility usage. However, before you hire an electrician or contact the utility company, you must secure official zoning approval.

For the complete guide visit the Separate Electrical Meters webpage. For more information visit www.pwcva.gov/zoning-counters email Zoningcounters@pwcgov.org or call (703) 792-6830.

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