Richmond, Virginia Building Codes

Building Codes References

• Virginia has adopted a mandatory, statewide building code, the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, based on the International Building Code. The state building code cannot be amended by local municipalities. Local jurisdictions can amend the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code to make it more stringent.
Code TypeCode ModelAmendment Contact
Building/Dwelling CodeVirginia USBC (2006 IBC)VA Dept. of Housing and Community Development,
(804) 371-7160 or online.
Structural CodeVirginia USBC (2006 IBC)VA Dept. of Housing and Community Development,
(804) 371-7160 or online.
Plumbing CodeVirginia USBC (2006 IPC)VA Dept. of Housing and Community Development,
(804) 371-7160 or online.
Mechanical CodeVirginia USBC (2006 IMC)VA Dept. of Housing and Community Development,
(804) 371-7160 or online.
Electrical CodeVirginia USBC (references 2005 NEC)VA Dept. of Housing and Community Development,
(804) 371-7160 or online.
Accessibility Code2006 IBC ( Virginia USBC)VA Dept. of Housing and Community Development,
(804) 371-7160 or online.
Energy CodeIECC 2006 (Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code)VA Dept. of Housing and Community Development,
(804) 371-7160 or online.

Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

Authorities Having Jurisdiction are those government officials who are the final authority on questions in a particular area (or jurisdiction).
Jurisdictional AreaContact
StructuralPermits and Inspections Bureau
Phone: (804) 646-6955
Fax: (804) 646-6948
PlumbingPermits and Inspections Bureau
Phone: (804) 646-6955
MechanicalPermits and Inspections Bureau
Phone: (804) 646-6955
ElectricalPermits and Inspections Bureau
Phone: (804) 646-6955
AccessibilityPermits and Inspections Bureau
Phone: (804) 646-6955
Historic PreservationHistoric Preservation Division
Phone: (804) 646-6344
Fire MarshalRobert A. Creecy
Fire Chief/Director
Phone: (804) 646-6663
ZoningZoning Division
Phone: (804) 646-6340
PlanningPlanning Division
Phone: (804) 646-6335
City AttorneyCommonwealth's Attorney
Phone: (804) 646-3500
Fax: (804) 646-0506
Public WorksPublic Works Dept.
Phone: (804) 646-0999
Parks/RecreationJohn R. Pope, Jr.
Director
Phone: (804) 646-5717