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SetbackIQ

Home businesses in Fairfax County, VA

Most home businesses need a $140 administrative permit: up to 400 sq ft, one non-resident employee at a single-family house, and no customers except small instruction (4 at a time, 8 a day). Bigger operations need a BZA special permit.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Fairfax County before you build.

The details

  • Administrative permit takes about 14 days. Customer visits only 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.High confidence
  • One commercial vehicle. Deliveries in vehicles up to 28 ft. No outdoor storage. No signs beyond yard signs.High confidence
  • Barbershops and salons need a special permit. Home day care and short-term lodging have their own rules.High confidence

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SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.

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Common questions

Can I run a business from home in Fairfax County?
Most home businesses need a $140 administrative permit: up to 400 sq ft, one non-resident employee at a single-family house, and no customers except small instruction (4 at a time, 8 a day). Bigger operations need a BZA special permit.

Sources

  1. Fairfax County Zoning, Home-based businesses (§ 4102.7.H). Checked 2026-10-21
    [Administrative permit, about 14 days, $140]... a maximum size of 400 square feet... A single-family detached home may have one nonresident employee... [customers only for instruction:] up to four students at a time and eight in a day... Customer visits are…

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.