Prince William County is performing server maintenance on Friday, August 7, 2026, to improve security and system performance. During that time, ePortal and IVR will not be available. To ensure all customer service transactions closeout prior to this, please note the following schedule:


Customer Service Closures and Downtime Schedule

  • 12:30 pm (August 7): Zoning Counters close early.
  • 2:00 pm (August 7): All Customer Service Counters close.
  • 3:00 pm (August 7): ePortal goes offline for several hours during the upgrade.


All users must complete transactions and log out before 3:00 pm, Friday, August 7. Service is expected to be restored by 5:00 pm, Saturday, August 8, 2026.


Thank you for your patience while we improve your digital experience. For more information, please call (703) 792-6875 or email DMS@pwcgov.org. 


Build Your Better Driveway: The Right Way!


Thinking about expanding your driveway or adding a second one? Whether you’re a homeowner looking for more space or a contractor ready to start a new project, there is a new roadmap to help you get the job done right.

 

Before the first shovel hits the dirt, make sure your project is paved for success by following these essential steps.

 

Get Zoning Approval

A 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.

 

How to Apply:

  • Online: Skip the line via ePortal. Select "Zoning Approval - Building Permit Zoning Approval."
  • In-Person: Visit the Zoning Counter at 5 County Complex Court between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm, Mon–Fri.

 

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.

 

Application Checklist

Make sure you have:

  1. A completed Zoning Application Form.
  2. A 100% to-scale house location survey plat (with the surveyor's seal).
  3. The proposed driveway drawn to scale on the plat, clearly showing the length, width, and materials.

 

Pro-Tip for Contractors & Owners

If the property is near a Resource Protection Area (RPA) or a floodway, you'll need an extra Environmental Management review. You can use the County Mapper tool to check for environmental impacts instantly.


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!

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#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.

We're Hiring,

Come Be A Leader With Us



Development Services Technician - Bonds

Ad closes: 8/9/2026


Building Development Project Manager

Ad closes: 8/11/2026


Senior Code Compliance Inspector

Ad closes: 8/16/2026

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

Setting Up a Private Kennel?

What Residents Need to Know


Prince William County requires zoning approval before you can get a kennel license. For complete rules, contact info, and step-by-step instructions, visit the Non-Commercial Dog Kennel Webpage. For questions, visit www.pwcva.gov/zoning-counters, 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.

ePortal Access


The Prince William County ePortal system is the fast and easy way to apply for permits and inspections online. ePortal offers many benefits to residents, homeowners, and trade contractors. It is fully integrated with the County's Geographic Information System (GIS) and supports the development processes that govern permitting, plan review, inspections, case management and more. 

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5 County Complex Ct

Prince William, VA 22192

(703) 792-6930 (TTY: 711)

Mon – Fri 8am – 4pm

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