Virginia, Wythe County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Wythe County Building and Safety Divisions
Wythe County's Building Inspection Department is responsible for enforcing the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC) and ensuring compliance with local ordinances. This department handles the issuance of building permits and conducts necessary inspections for construction projects within the county. They operate from their office located at 290 South Sixth Street, Suite 350 (Room 351), Wytheville, VA 24382. The department can be reached by phone at 276-223-4505 or via email at [email protected]. They offer an online permitting portal for convenience, in addition to in-person and email application submissions.
Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas
For properties located in unincorporated areas of Wythe County, a building permit is generally required before undertaking any construction, alteration, demolition, or change in building use. However, certain projects are exempt from requiring a permit, such as painting, interior wall repairs, detached utility sheds under 256 square feet (without plumbing or electrical), and the repair or replacement of common appliances or fixtures. It is important to note that exemption from a building permit does not exempt a property from zoning or land-use requirements. Properties within the town limits of Rural Retreat are routed to Wythe County for building permit purposes, but may require a separate town zoning permit. Wytheville has its own separate building department and permitting system.
Specific requirements for obtaining a permit include:
- A completed permit application form.
- Owner and applicant contact information.
- Property details, including location, deed or recorded plat, and account numbers.
- For new single-family dwellings or additions that impact septic systems, a Septic Disposal Permit from Wythe County Environmental Health Services is required. If an existing system is present, verification from the Health Department is needed.
- If a new driveway is being constructed off a state-maintained road, an Entranceway Permit from the Virginia Department of Highway and Transportation is necessary.
- Dimensions, square footage, and estimated cost of the project.
- Contractor information, including their Virginia license number, or a claim of owner exemption.
- Mechanic's lien agent information for new or altered one- or two-family dwellings.
- Plans or sketches, depending on the project's complexity.
Plumbing trade permits have a fee of $50 each for residential applications. A 2% state levy is added to all permit fees. Fees are typically due at the time of permit approval.