Skip to content
SetbackIQ

Height limits in Fairfax County, VA

Building codes decide when you need a permit; zoning decides how tall you can go. Both are below, measured the way Fairfax County measures them.

Rules last checked by a person on October 20, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with Fairfax County before you build.

Citywide

Shed: Height cap20 ft for enclosed structures on lots of 36,000 sq ft or less
Garage: Height cap20 ft (lots of 36,000 sq ft or less)
Fence: Front yard4 ft max
Fence: Side and rear yards7 ft max

Check your lot

What are you building?

Sources

  1. Virginia USBC, 13VAC5-63-80 Section 108.2, Exemptions from application for permit. Checked 2026-10-20.
    2. One story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided the building area does not exceed 256 square feet... 5. Fences of any height unless required for pedestrian safety as provided for by Section 3306 or used…
  2. Fairfax County Code Compliance, Building trade and unpermitted construction (September 2024). Checked 2026-10-20.
    [Permits are often required for] decks, porches, sheds, and adding other detached structures exceeding 256 square feet.
  3. 44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19.
    Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
  4. 44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19.
    Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...
  5. Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance § 4102.7.A(6)-(7), freestanding accessory structures and fences. Checked 2026-10-20.
    On a lot that is 36,000 square feet or less, accessory structures may not be located in the front yard... If the structure does not exceed eight and one-half feet in height, it may be located in any part of a side yard or rear yard... between eight and one-…
  6. 2024 IRC R105.2, Work exempt from permit (text published by the City of Benson, AZ). Checked 2026-10-19.
    One-story detached accessory structures, provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. Fences not over 7 feet high. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a…
  7. Fairfax County Zoning Administration, Frequently asked questions. Checked 2026-10-20.
    On most residential lots, the Zoning Ordinance only allows a fence or wall of 4 feet or less in the front yard. In a side or rear yard, a fence or wall of not more than 7 feet is generally allowed... An accessory structure may NOT be located (a) in any mini…