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Licenses and Permits
Similar to jurisdictions throughout the country, Fairfax County requires companies located here or conducting business here to obtain certain licenses and permits. The selected list below is a brief overview of some of the licenses and permits required. For a more comprehensive overview, download a copy of Doing Business in Fairfax County or visit the Quick Reference Guide.
Licenses | Permits
Licenses
Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL)—All businesses, including home-based enterprises and self-employed individuals, that are located or operating in Fairfax County and have gross annual receipts greater than $10,000 must have a BPOL licenses. For more information, visit the Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration's Web site.
Certificate of Authority for firms incorporated outside of Virginia—A corporation incorporated outside Virginia but doing business in Virginia must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the State Corporation Commission.
Incorporating in Virginia—To become incorporated in Virginia, an organization must file articles of incorporation with the State Corporation Commission and pay the required fees.
Occupational Licenses—Individuals engaged in various occupations are required to obtain licenses or permits from the county, state or federal governments. A sampling of occupations include:
- Refuse trucks, auto graveyards and owners of establishments serving mixed drinks—Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration;
- Taxicab drivers and operators, solicitors, gun dealers and precious metal and gem dealers, among others—Fairfax County Department of Cable Communications and Consumer Protection;
- Home improvement contractors with Class B or C state contractor licenses — The Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services;
- Food, pharmaceutical, medical device and cosmetics production—the U.S. Food and Drug Administration;
- Accountants, appraisers (real estate), architects, interior designers, land surveyors, opticians, real estate brokers and tradesman, among others—Virginia Department of Professional and Occupation Regulation;
- Dentists, funeral directors and embalmers, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and psychologists, among others—Virginia Department of Health Professions;
- Attorneys—Virginia Board of Bar Examiners; and
- Motor vehicle dealers—Motor Vehicle Dealer Board.
Permits
Building (New Construction and Renovation)—A building permit is required for the erection of new structures and for modifications of existing structure in Fairfax County. The Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services is responsible for all "vertical" and "horizontal" development in the county.
Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing Permits—Separate permits are required to perform electrical, mechanical HVAC and plumbing installations. The length of the approval process varies with the nature and complexity of the project. Applications should be made to the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services.
Fire Department Inspections/Permits—New buildings and existing building undergoing renovation may have to be inspected and/or permitted by the Fairfax County Fire and Resource Department's Fire Prevention Services Branch.
Food Service Permits—The Fairfax County Department of Health issues permits for food service establishments. The department conducts pre-opening and routine inspections to ensure proper compliance.
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