Building Codes
The Inspections Division oversees permitting and inspections by use of the Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC). The provisions of the VUSBC are based on nationally recognized model building and fire codes published by the International Code Council, Inc. The model codes are made part of the VUSBC through a regulatory process known as incorporation by reference. The USBC also contains administrative provisions governing the use of the model codes and establishing requirements for the enforcement of the code by the local building departments and other code enforcement agencies. The current version of the USBC is known as the 2021 Edition of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and was effective throughout Virginia on January 18, 2024.
2021 Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code
https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/building-and-fire-regulations-archives
2021 Virginia Codes
https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes/virginia
Other Information
Design Wind Speed
| 89 mph, exposure B |
Seismic Design Category
| A |
Ground Snow Load
| 20 psf |
| Frost Depth | 12 inches |
| Shrink/Swell Percentages | Less than 20% |
| Soil Bearing Pressure | (if county standard) N/A |
