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Alleghany County

Alleghany County, VA Permits for Metal Carports and Garages

Virginia

In Alleghany County, a detached metal carport or garage is treated as an accessory structure, and you apply on the county's Building and Zoning Application. The Alleghany County carport permit isn't same-day, so leave two working days for review before you schedule delivery.


Permit office: Alleghany County Building Inspections Department
Address: 9212 Winterberry Avenue, Suite A, Covington, VA 24426
Phone: 540-863-6654
Official county page


When a permit is required

  • Detached carports and garages: listed under accessory structures needing the application.
  • Storage sheds over 256 square feet: same application.
  • Detached accessory structures of 256 square feet or less are on the exempt list, but zoning compliance still applies.


Zoning and setbacks

Each of the county's seven zone classes has its own setbacks from property lines and roads. If you're in the Town of Clifton Forge or Iron Gate, attach a compliance letter from that town's zoning official. The Zoning Department is at (540) 863-6650.


What to bring

  • Completed Building and Zoning Application.
  • Site sketch or survey with boundaries, structures, easements, creeks, and distances to lines and streets.
  • Estimated cost, which sets the fee.
  • FEMA map panel with your property highlighted, if it's in a flood hazard area.


Farm buildings

Farm buildings and structures are exempt from the building code under Code of Virginia ยง 36-99 and USBC Section 102.3. The county's exemptions page doesn't address farm buildings, so mention the farm use when you call.


Good to know

The county bars construction or fill in a designated floodway, and in the 100-year floodplain the first floor must sit at least one foot above the flood elevation. The flood page has the basics. The county's accessory listing assumes no electric or plumbing, so mention either up front.


Common questions

Do I need a permit for a carport in Alleghany County?
Expect to file. The Alleghany County carport permit runs through the Building and Zoning Application. Ask (540) 863-6654 about a small one, since the exempt list covers 256 square feet or less but doesn't name carports.


Do I need a permit for a metal garage or shed in Alleghany County?
A detached garage goes through the application, as does a shed over 256 square feet. A smaller shed can fall under the exemption but must still comply with zoning.


Sources


Rules and fees change. Call the office to confirm before you order.


See the full Virginia permit guide for statewide rules, farm exemptions and wind and snow ratings.


Looking at buildings? See our metal carports, metal garages and metal buildings.


Ready to design your building?

Design it yourself in 3D with the button below, or call 919-725-8176 and we'll help you figure out what your county needs.

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