Virginia Beach ADU Permit

What's Required in Virginia Beach

• Building permit required for all secondary dwelling units.
• Must have independent cooking, sleeping, and sanitation facilities.
• Requires professional architectural plans including foundation.
• Must meet lot coverage and setback rules for the zoning district.
• Owner-occupancy of the property is a mandatory requirement.
• Must comply with CBPA impervious cover and buffer rules.

How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Virginia Beach?

Budget $1,000–$3,500 for the Virginia Beach permit itself (valuation-based), issued by the Planning & Community Development - Building Permits and Inspections — but treat that as the entry fee, not the total. ADUs are full dwelling units, so the permit stack usually includes building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trade permits, plus plan review. One local note: includes building, zoning, and environmental review fees. Get an itemized fee estimate from the department before finalizing your budget; the spread between a simple conversion and a new detached build is wide.

ADU Size Limits and Zoning Rules in Virginia Beach

Before drawing plans, check the two gates that sink most ADU projects: size and zoning. Size ceilings vary by lot and ADU type (attached, detached, or conversion), so confirm your specific configuration. Other recorded conditions: owner-occupancy of the property is a mandatory requirement. Setbacks, height limits, and utility connections layer on top of those rules. The Planning & Community Development - Building Permits and Inspections can confirm what your specific lot allows — worth doing before you pay for architectural drawings rather than after.

How to Get a ADU Permit in Virginia Beach

Frequently Asked Questions