June 2, 2025
Safe exit – The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) enforces the Virginia Property Maintenance Code (VPMC). Among other requirements, the VPMC helps ensure residents a safe exit in the event of a fire or other emergency. Here are some examples.
Smoke alarms must be maintained capable of alerting occupants to a fire.
Hallways and other areas required for movement out of a space (egress) must not be blocked by belongings or other obstructions.
From inside of a building, doors and windows must be openable without keys or an unreasonable amount of required force.
Basement bedroom windows are considered emergency escape and rescue openings under the VPMC. Any grills or grates installed on these windows must be releasable from the inside of the bedroom, among other requirements.
Porches and decks are a place to recreate but may also become a back-up way to the outside in an emergency. Porches, decks, and any associated staircases must be maintained structurally sound.
DCC accepts and investigates reports of potential VPMC violations related to egress issues, mainly in residential structures. The Office of the Fire Marshal addresses similar requirements in business spaces.
DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.
May 1, 2025
Grass Height – On April 14, 2025, the Department of Code Compliance (DCC) began accepting reports of grass height over 12 inches. DCC will take reports through mid-October. Chapter 119 of the Fairfax County Code states grass must not be taller than 12 inches on:
residential property that is developed (has a house) and is less than a half-acre (21,780 square feet);
undeveloped residential property less than one-half acre, if 90% of the lots in the subdivision have houses; and
any commercial or industrial property that is developed but unoccupied (has a building but no tenant).
We support a healthy natural ecosystem for wildlife and pollinators and remind you that trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses, flowers, and other managed landscaping are not subject to enforcement.
Since lot size determines if a residential lot must meet grass height limits, the county’s real estate assessment website can help find lot size, among other information.
Tell us how we’re doing! DCC is asking for your feedback on our operations. Please take a few minutes to complete this questionnaire and help us improve service for the community.
DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.
April 1, 2025
Under the Zoning Ordinance, front yard coverage limitations apply on certain residential properties. This affects how much driveway pavement can be in the front yard. Below is a guide to help you find out if your property is subject to these limitations.
You have to abide by a maximum front yard coverage if:
your property is developed with a single-family detached dwelling;
your lot size is 36,000 square feet or less; and
your property is zoned R-1, R-2, R-3, or R-4.
If all of the above apply, the percentage of your front yard that can be surfaced area for vehicle or trailer parking is:
25 percent if your lot is in the R-1 or R-2 District; and
30 percent if your lot is in the R-3 or R-4 District.
This informational flyer is available as a resource for determining the zoning district for your lot. Additional information, including what counts as surfaced area and exceptions to these regulations, can be found on the Department of Code Compliance (DCC) Yard Coverage flyer (see under Front Yard Regulations).
If you’re seeking a contractor to repair or modify your driveway, the Department of Cable and Consumer Services has a page with quick tips on hiring a contractor.
DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.