top of page
Redemption Steel logo (trimmed for header).png

Amelia County

Amelia County, VA Permits for Metal Carports and Garages

Virginia

In Amelia County, a metal carport or garage needs a Zoning Permit before work starts, because the county code requires one before any building or structure is started or altered. The posted permit pages don't call out carports, so ask the Building Department what else an Amelia County carport permit will involve for your size.


Permit office: Amelia County Building Department
Address: 16360 Dunn Street, Suite 101, Amelia, VA 23002
Phone: 804-561-3039
Official county page


When a permit is required

  • Zoning Permit: before a building or structure is started, enlarged or altered.
  • Building Permit application: online portal or in person.
  • Agricultural structures: an exemption application and affidavit.


Zoning and setbacks

You submit a scale drawing of the parcel, and the Zoning Administrator issues the permit if it conforms. On a corner lot, the side yard facing the side street must be at least 25 feet for main and accessory buildings. Other setbacks vary by district, and Community Development can give you yours.


What to bring

  • Completed building application.
  • Contractor's Virginia license and business license, or a notarized affidavit if exempt.
  • Recorded plat with dimensioned setbacks.
  • Electronic plans for a residential new structure.
  • A deed if owned under two years.


Farm buildings

Farm buildings and structures are exempt from the building code under Code of Virginia ยง 36-99 and USBC Section 102.3. Amelia's Affidavit of Exemption for Agricultural Structures is signed before a notary with a plat attached, and it lists setbacks of 150 feet front and 100 feet side and rear.


Good to know

The Building Department is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and quotes fees by phone. The county's design criteria list 115 mph wind and a ground snow load of 20, numbers worth comparing against a carport's engineering.


Common questions

Do I need a permit for a carport in Amelia County?
You need a zoning permit before starting. The rest of an Amelia County carport permit depends on the structure, and no carport size cutoff is posted, so call 804-561-3039.


Do I need a permit for a metal garage or shed in Amelia County?
The zoning requirement covers buildings and structures generally. For a garage, plan on the building application with a plat and plans, and ask the office about the paperwork for a small shed.


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.

bottom of page