Do you need a permit for a detached garage in Arlington County, VA?
It depends on size and placement.
Detached garages over 256 sq ft need a building permit.
A garage under 560 sq ft (R-5, R-6) and 25 ft can sit 1 ft from the side and rear lines.
Two-story garages can't go in the required rear yard and need 10 ft from every lot line.
Rules last checked by a person on October 20, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with Arlington County before you build.
Check your exact lot
Setbacks depend on your zoning district, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.
Permits a detached garage can need in Arlington County
| Permit | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Building permit | Garages are almost always bigger than Virginia's 256 sq ft exemption. |
| Floodplain development permit | If the lot is in a FEMA special flood hazard area, all development there needs a permit. |
| Electrical permit | Wiring needs its own permit.Confidence: medium |
R-5 and R-6 one-family dwelling districts
| Side setback | 1 ft to the eave edge (interior lots) |
|---|---|
| Rear setback | 1 ft to the eave edge (10 ft on corner lots) |
| Footprint cap | 560 sq ft in R-5 and R-6 |
| Two stories or over 25 ft | Not in the required rear yard, and 10 ft from every lot line |
R-8, R-10 and R-20 one-family dwelling districts
| Side setback | 1 ft to the eave edge (interior lots) |
|---|---|
| Rear setback | 1 ft to the eave edge (10 ft on corner lots) |
| Footprint cap | 650 sq ft |
All rules for R-8, R-10 and R-20 one-family dwelling districts
Local details
- Arlington caps both total lot coverage and the main-building footprint. A new garage plus the driveway can push a lot over the cap even when every setback is met.
- Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
- HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.
How to apply
Questions people ask
- When does a detached garage need a building permit in Arlington County?
- Garages are almost always bigger than Virginia's 256 sq ft exemption. Only one-story detached structures up to 256 sq ft are exempt.
- How far from the property line can a detached garage go in Arlington County?
- Side setback: 1 ft to the eave edge (interior lots). Setbacks vary by zoning district; check your exact lot for the district that applies.
- Where do I apply for a detached garage permit in Arlington County?
- Apply through Arlington Permits portal, or call 703-228-3800.
Sources
- 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…
- 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...
- 44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19.
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...
- 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…