Norfolk, VA Building Permit Fees (2026)
Residential building permit fees from the official City of Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees (effective July 1, 2021). Norfolk uses three different pricing methods on a single schedule: a flat $100 for residential alterations and repairs, a 3-tier flat-fee schedule by area for uncovered decks ($50 / $100 / $125), and $0.15 per square foot for new construction and accessory structures. Plan review is tiered by area ($35 for 0-2,500 sq ft, $75 for 2,501-5,000, $100 for 5,001+). Every permit adds a $15 processing fee and Virginia's 2% state levy. Residential re-roof and siding work require no Norfolk permit, which is unusual among Virginia jurisdictions.
This page covers: Norfolk residential building permit fees for one- and two-family dwellings, as published in the official Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees (effective July 1, 2021) on norfolk.gov. Coverage includes administrative fees ($15 processing, $50 minimum, $50 re-inspection), plan review tiers (by area), residential building permit categories (new construction, alterations, accessory structures, decks, pools, demolition), elevator and pier permits, the Virginia 2% state levy, and the residential re-roof / siding "no permit required" rule.
This page does NOT cover: Commercial building permit fees beyond the basic $0.16-per-sq-ft and $150 commercial re-roof flat fees noted in the schedule; full commercial elevator and crane fees; trade permits beyond the residential summary (Norfolk's electrical, mechanical, and plumbing schedules are itemized below for context, but trade permits are pulled and priced separately under their own line items); zoning permits, sign permit reviews under separate land-use schedules, fire permits, parking permits, sevenvenues event permits, water/sewer connection fees, or roadway construction permits (each handled by separate Norfolk fee sheets); land use applications under Planning & Zoning; or Public Health fees.
Note on the residential re-roof exemption: Norfolk's Building Code Schedule of Fees explicitly states "Re-roof and siding - i.) Residential - No permit required." This is structurally different from most Virginia jurisdictions (Fairfax, Henrico, Chesterfield, Richmond, Virginia Beach all require permits for residential re-roof or siding). Verify on-site work scope with the Development Services Center before assuming exemption - if the project also involves structural work, electrical relocations, or change of roof line, a building permit may still be required.
Note on alteration vs. new construction: Norfolk distinguishes residential "Alterations/Repairs" (flat $100 regardless of size or value) from "New Construction" and "Accessory Structures" (priced at $0.15 per sq ft). The line between an alteration and an addition that increases gross area is whether floor area is added. A kitchen remodel inside the existing footprint is an alteration ($100). A 200 sq ft sunroom or garage addition is new construction (200 x $0.15 = $30, but the $50 minimum permit fee applies, so $50 for the building permit). Match the application form line item to the project type before assuming a fee.
Norfolk residential building permits use mixed pricing. Alterations and repairs are $100 flat regardless of construction value. New construction and accessory structures cost $0.15 per sq ft (subject to the $50 minimum permit fee). Uncovered decks are tiered: $50 up to 100 sq ft, $100 for 101-400 sq ft, $125 for 401+ sq ft. In-ground pools are $125 flat; above-ground pools are $50. Residential re-roof and siding require no Norfolk permit. Every permit adds a $15 processing fee and Virginia's 2% state levy. A typical $30,000 alteration totals $152.00 all-in; a $30,000 in-ground pool totals $192.50.
- Norfolk uses three different pricing methods on a single fee schedule: flat-fee (residential alterations $100, in-ground pools $125, demolition $50), tiered by area (decks at $50 / $100 / $125), and per-square-foot ($0.15/sq ft for new construction and accessory structures). The pricing method depends on the project type, not the project value.
- Residential alterations are a flat $100 regardless of declared construction value. A $5,000 kitchen refresh and a $50,000 full-bath gut renovation both pay the same $100 base permit fee. This is structurally different from Fairfax County (3% of value) and Henrico County ($100 + $6 per $1,000 over $5,000).
- Plan review is tiered by area, not value: $35 for 0-2,500 sq ft of work, $75 for 2,501-5,000 sq ft, $100 for 5,001+ sq ft. Pool, fence, riprap, bulkhead, pier, sign, elevator, and tower plan reviews are a flat $50.
- Norfolk's Building Code Schedule of Fees explicitly says residential re-roof and siding require no permit. Most Virginia jurisdictions require a residential re-roof permit. Confirm scope with the Development Services Center before assuming exemption when structural or trim changes are involved.
- Every Norfolk permit carries a $15 processing fee and a 2% Virginia state levy on the building permit fee. The $50 minimum permit fee floor (Building and Plumbing/Mechanical/Electrical only) applies to small accessory permits where $0.15 per sq ft would otherwise calculate below $50.
- Re-inspection fee is $50 per visit. Beginning work without a permit triggers a $150 administrative fee in addition to the standard permit fee. Changes or corrections to plans cost $50.
- For a 200 sq ft uncovered deck: $100 permit + $35 plan review + $15 processing fee + $2 state levy = $152.00 total. For a $30,000 in-ground pool: $125 permit + $50 plan review + $15 processing fee + $2.50 state levy = $192.50 total.
- The Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees is footer-labeled "effective July 1, 2021" and is the current published rate sheet on norfolk.gov as of April 25, 2026. PermitPrice has not located a more recent revision; verify current rates with the Development Services Center before filing.
Norfolk Residential Building Permit Fee Schedule
Permit fee components from the official Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees (effective July 1, 2021). Plan review and the $15 processing fee are billed alongside the permit fee. The 2% Virginia state levy is added on the building permit fee. Source: norfolk.gov.
| Fee Category | Formula or Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential new construction (incl. additions) | $0.15 per sq ft $50 minimum permit fee |
Includes additions that increase the gross area of the existing structure |
| Residential alterations / repairs | $100 flat | Regardless of construction value or square footage. No size or value escalation. |
| Residential accessory structures | $0.15 per sq ft $50 minimum permit fee |
Detached sheds, detached garages, similar one-story accessory structures |
| Uncovered deck / porch (one story) - up to 100 sq ft | $50 | Smallest deck tier (typical landings, small porches) |
| Uncovered deck / porch (one story) - 101 to 400 sq ft | $100 | Mid-tier deck (typical residential 12 x 16 to 20 x 20) |
| Uncovered deck / porch (one story) - 401+ sq ft | $125 | Largest deck tier; covered porches priced separately |
| In-ground pool | $125 flat | Plumbing and electrical trade permits may also be required, priced separately |
| Above-ground pool | $50 flat | Plumbing and electrical trade permits may also be required |
| Pool barrier / fence | $50 flat | Separate from the pool permit itself; required by the Virginia Construction Code |
| Demolition (any building or structure) | $50 each | No plan review fee for demolition |
| Re-roof and siding (residential) | No permit required | Norfolk schedule explicit: residential re-roof and siding work does not require a Norfolk building permit |
| Re-roof and siding (commercial) | $150 flat | Commercial properties only |
| Plan review (0-2,500 sq ft) | $35 | New construction, alterations, repairs - smallest area tier |
| Plan review (2,501-5,000 sq ft) | $75 | Mid-tier plan review |
| Plan review (5,001+ sq ft) | $100 | Largest plan review tier |
| Plan review (pools, fences, riprap, bulkheads, piers, signs, elevators, towers, pumps, vaults) | $50 | Flat plan review fee for these accessory categories |
| Plan review (fire protection systems / alarms) | $75 | All fire protection systems and alarms |
| Processing fee | $15 flat per permit | Added to every permit per Administrative Fees Section B |
| Minimum permit fee | $50 | Applies to Building and Plumbing/Mechanical/Electrical (PME) permits only |
| Re-inspection fee | $50 | Per failed inspection |
| Work without permit (admin fee) | $150 | Added to the standard permit fee at after-the-fact filing |
| Changes or corrections to plans | $50 | Each round of plan changes after submittal |
| Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or compliance | $50 $0 with building permit |
No charge when issued in connection with a building permit. Temporary CO escalates: $100 first, $200 second, $400 third, $600 fourth and beyond. |
| Appeal to Board of Building Code Appeals | $75 | Per appeal |
| Virginia state surcharge | 2% of building permit fee (added at payment, per Code of Virginia Section 36-137) | |
Trade permits (electrical, mechanical, plumbing) are pulled and priced separately under their own schedules in the same Building Code Schedule of Fees document. Electrical service permits run $50 (0-200 AMP) to $150 (401-600 AMP) plus per-circuit fees. Mechanical permits range from $5 to $40 per equipment item. Plumbing fixtures are $10 each, sewer service lines $20, sewer caps $50. Source: Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees (effective July 1, 2021), pages 3-5.
How Norfolk Calculates Building Permit Fees
| Step | What Happens | Norfolk Rule |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Classify the project | Norfolk's schedule has separate line items for new construction, alterations/repairs, accessory structures, uncovered decks, pools, demolition, and re-roof/siding. Each has its own pricing method. | The Building Code Schedule of Fees pages 1-3 list each project type explicitly. Match the project to the closest line item before computing the fee. |
| 2. Apply the correct pricing method | Three methods exist on the same schedule: flat fee (alterations $100, in-ground pool $125, above-ground pool $50, demolition $50), tiered by area (decks $50/$100/$125), or per-square-foot ($0.15/sq ft for new construction and accessory structures with a $50 minimum). | Alterations cost the same $100 regardless of value. A 250 sq ft new construction project pays $50 (minimum applies; $0.15 x 250 = $37.50, below the $50 floor). A 1,200 sq ft addition pays 1,200 x $0.15 = $180. |
| 3. Add the plan review fee | Plan review is tiered by area for new construction, alterations, and repairs ($35 / $75 / $100). Pool, fence, riprap, bulkhead, pier, sign, elevator, communication tower, pump station, and vault plan reviews are a flat $50. Fire protection systems are $75. | For typical residential alterations and decks, plan review is $35 (0-2,500 sq ft). For pools, plan review is $50. |
| 4. Add the $15 processing fee | A $15 flat processing fee is assessed on every permit per Administrative Fees Section B. | Charged once per permit, regardless of project type or value. |
| 5. Add the 2% Virginia state surcharge | Virginia's mandatory 2% USBC state levy is applied to the building permit fee per Code of Virginia Section 36-137. | The Norfolk schedule states "A 2% surcharge on all permits will be levied." PermitPrice applies the levy to the building permit fee, consistent with statewide practice. |
| 6. Apply the $50 minimum (Building / PME only) | For Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical permits, the calculated fee may not fall below $50. Small accessory structure projects often hit this floor. | A 100 sq ft accessory shed: 100 x $0.15 = $15. The $50 minimum applies, raising the building permit fee to $50. |
| 7. Pull trade permits separately if needed | Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits are separate applications under their own schedules. Each carries its own state levy and processing fee. | For a kitchen alteration with a new circuit and a relocated sink: building permit ($100), electrical permit (per circuit and service), plumbing permit ($10/fixture). All priced under separate sections of the same Schedule of Fees. |
Permit Fee at Different Project Sizes (Building Permit Only, Before Plan Review)
| Project Size or Value | Alteration ($X value) | New Construction / Accessory ($0.15/sq ft) | Uncovered Deck (by area) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft / $5,000 | $100 | $50 ($15 raw - $50 minimum applies) |
$50 |
| 200 sq ft / $15,000 | $100 | $50 ($30 raw - $50 minimum applies) |
$100 |
| 400 sq ft / $30,000 | $100 | $60 | $100 |
| 500 sq ft / $50,000 | $100 | $75 | $125 |
| 1,200 sq ft / $100,000 | $100 | $180 | $125 |
| 2,400 sq ft / $250,000 | $100 | $360 | $125 |
Building permit only, before plan review, processing fee, and state levy. Add $35 (typical 0-2,500 sq ft plan review), $15 processing fee, and 2% state levy on the permit fee to get the total. Source: Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees, effective July 1, 2021, verified April 25, 2026.
Worked Examples
Example 1: 200 sq ft Uncovered Deck (Tier 2: 101-400 sq ft)
| Fee Component | Rule Applied | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Building permit fee (deck tier 2) | 101-400 sq ft tier (one-story uncovered) | $100.00 |
| Plan review (0-2,500 sq ft) | $35 flat (smallest area tier) | $35.00 |
| Processing fee | $15 flat per permit | $15.00 |
| Virginia 2% state surcharge | $100 x 2% | $2.00 |
| Total - Building Permit Only | $100 + $35 + $15 + $2 | $152.00 |
Note: The $152.00 covers the building permit only. If the deck includes lighting or a connected outlet, an electrical permit is required and is priced separately under Norfolk's electrical schedule. Norfolk does not require a residential re-roof or siding permit; deck construction does require a permit. Source: Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees (effective July 1, 2021), Section H Porches and Decks.
Example 2: $30,000 Residential Alteration (Kitchen Remodel)
| Fee Component | Rule Applied | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Building permit fee (alteration) | $100 flat (regardless of declared value) | $100.00 |
| Plan review (0-2,500 sq ft) | $35 flat (work area under 2,500 sq ft) | $35.00 |
| Processing fee | $15 flat per permit | $15.00 |
| Virginia 2% state surcharge | $100 x 2% | $2.00 |
| Total - Building Permit Only | $100 + $35 + $15 + $2 | $152.00 |
Note: Norfolk's residential alteration fee is a flat $100 regardless of declared construction value. A $5,000 cabinet refresh and a $50,000 gut renovation both pay the same $100 base permit fee. The trade permits do change with project size: a kitchen remodel with new circuits and relocated plumbing typically needs an electrical permit ($50 service permit minimum + per-circuit fees) and a plumbing permit ($10 per fixture, $20 per sewer service line). Source: Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees, Section A.ii Residential Alterations/Repairs.
Example 3: $30,000 In-Ground Pool
| Fee Component | Rule Applied | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Building permit fee (in-ground pool) | $125 flat (regardless of declared value) | $125.00 |
| Plan review (pool flat) | $50 flat (pools, fences, riprap, bulkheads, piers) | $50.00 |
| Processing fee | $15 flat per permit | $15.00 |
| Virginia 2% state surcharge | $125 x 2% | $2.50 |
| Total - Building Permit Only | $125 + $50 + $15 + $2.50 | $192.50 |
Note: The $192.50 is the in-ground pool building permit only. A separate $50 pool barrier (fence) permit is required by the Virginia Construction Code. Plumbing fixtures (skimmer, drain, fill line) require a plumbing permit ($10 per fixture). Pool electrical work (pump, lighting, bonding) requires an electrical permit, including the $50 pool grounding fee. Add $50 pool barrier + plumbing trade permit + electrical trade permit on top of the $192.50 building permit for a complete pool project budget. Source: Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees, Section K Swimming Pools.
Practitioner Insight
Norfolk has the simplest residential alteration fee in the Hampton Roads region: $100 flat, no value escalator, no plan review surprises. For a $50,000 kitchen gut renovation that would cost $1,500+ in plan review and surcharges in Fairfax County, the Norfolk all-in is $152.00 ($100 base + $35 plan review + $15 processing + $2 state levy). That alone makes Norfolk the cheapest large jurisdiction in Virginia for high-value residential alterations. The flip side is that Norfolk's deck pricing is tier-by-area, not value-based: a 350 sq ft luxury composite deck pays the same $100 building permit as a 350 sq ft pressure-treated rebuild, because both fall in the 101-400 sq ft tier.
Two Norfolk-specific facts worth flagging when budgeting a project. First, Norfolk does not require a residential re-roof or siding permit. That is highly unusual: Fairfax County, Henrico County, Chesterfield County, Richmond City, and Virginia Beach City all require permits for residential re-roof or siding work. Second, the schedule's $50 minimum permit fee floor catches small accessory projects: a 200 sq ft shed addition would calculate at 200 x $0.15 = $30, but the $50 minimum applies. Plan around the $50 floor when budgeting any small accessory structure.
Permit Requirements - Common Residential Projects in Norfolk
| Project Type | Permit Required? | Fee Method | Plan Review |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncovered deck (101-400 sq ft) | Yes | $100 flat (tier 2 of 3) | $35 (0-2,500 sq ft tier) |
| Uncovered deck (up to 100 sq ft) | Yes | $50 flat (tier 1 of 3) | $35 |
| Uncovered deck (401+ sq ft) | Yes | $125 flat (tier 3 of 3) | $35 (or $75 if work area exceeds 2,500 sq ft) |
| Covered porch addition | Yes | $0.15/sq ft (counts as new construction; $50 minimum) | $35 |
| Heated room addition / sunroom | Yes | $0.15/sq ft (new construction; $50 minimum) | $35 |
| Detached garage | Yes | $0.15/sq ft (accessory structure; $50 minimum) | $35 |
| Shed / detached storage | Yes (verify size threshold with Norfolk DSC) | $0.15/sq ft (accessory; $50 minimum) | $35 |
| Interior alteration / kitchen / bath remodel | Yes (if structural, electrical, or plumbing changes) | $100 flat (regardless of value) | $35 (typical 0-2,500 sq ft tier) |
| In-ground pool | Yes | $125 flat | $50 flat (pool tier) |
| Above-ground pool (24 inches or deeper) | Yes | $50 flat | $50 flat (pool tier) |
| Pool barrier / fence | Yes (separate from pool permit) | $50 flat | $50 flat |
| Residential re-roof | No permit required | n/a | n/a |
| Residential siding only | No permit required | n/a | n/a |
| Demolition (any building or structure) | Yes | $50 flat each | None |
| Sign (new) | Yes | $80 flat | $50 flat (sign tier) |
| HVAC replacement | Mechanical permit | Per equipment item ($5-$40 each) | n/a (separate trade permit) |
| Electrical service upgrade | Electrical permit | Tiered by AMP ($50 for 0-200, $100 for 201-400, $150 for 401-600) | n/a (separate trade permit) |
| Water heater replacement | Mechanical permit | $20 each | n/a (separate trade permit) |
| Residential bulkhead / pier (no tiebacks, up to 100 LF) | Yes (Hampton Roads waterfront context) | $50 flat (+$50 per additional 100 LF) | $50 flat |
| New single-family home | Yes | $0.15/sq ft (new construction) | $35-$100 by area |
Norfolk's coastal context means waterfront work (bulkheads, riprap, piers) is commonly permitted. Bulkheads with tiebacks or riprap up to 100 linear feet are $75 (vs. $50 without tiebacks). Each additional 100 linear feet adds $50 (no tiebacks) or $75 (with tiebacks). Confirm shed thresholds and accessory structure rules with the Development Services Center at (757) 664-6565 before placing the structure.
Norfolk Development Services Center
City of Norfolk Department of City Planning
Development Services Center (DSC)
(757) 664-6565
Development Services Center main line
(757) 664-4752
E-Permitting Portal password resets
810 Union Street
Norfolk, VA 23510
Email planning@norfolk.gov
Norfolk E-Permitting Portal
Online application and status lookup. Permit forms and the building permit fee schedule live at norfolk.gov/4543/Permits-Fees and norfolk.gov/362/Permit-Applications-Forms.
When This Estimate May Not Apply
Source-age caveat - 2021 fee schedule
The Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees PDF carries a footer date of "effective July 1, 2021." That is older than the rate sheets PermitPrice has verified for Virginia Beach (rev. Jul-2025), Richmond (rev. June 2022), Henrico (Dec 2025), and Chesterfield (FY2025-2026). PermitPrice has not located a more recent Norfolk revision; Norfolk may have adjusted rates since 2021. Treat the figures on this page as the most recent published rates and verify current rates with the Development Services Center before budgeting tightly.
Project classification can change the pricing method
Norfolk's schedule has three pricing methods on the same document. The same physical project can land in different categories depending on how the Development Services Center classifies it on intake. A finished basement could be an alteration ($100 flat) or new construction ($0.15/sq ft) depending on whether gross area is added. A covered porch is new construction (per-sq-ft) while an uncovered deck is its own tiered category. Match the application form line item to the project type before assuming a fee.
Plan review tier shifts above 2,500 sq ft
Plan review is $35 for 0-2,500 sq ft, $75 for 2,501-5,000 sq ft, and $100 for 5,001+ sq ft. Most residential alterations and decks fall into the smallest tier. Larger additions, full second-story builds, and new single-family homes can shift the plan review fee up to $75 or $100. Pool, fence, riprap, bulkhead, pier, sign, elevator, and tower plan reviews are a flat $50 regardless of area.
Trade permits are separate
Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits are separate applications under their own schedules in the same Schedule of Fees document. They are NOT included in the residential building permit fee. A typical kitchen alteration with a new circuit and a relocated sink needs the building permit ($100), an electrical permit ($50 service permit + per-circuit fees), and a plumbing permit ($10 per fixture). Each trade permit carries its own state levy and processing fee.
Re-roof / siding scope creep
Norfolk's "no permit required" rule for residential re-roof and siding applies to like-for-like replacement. If the project also involves structural changes (re-framing the roof line, adding skylights, changing the dormer profile, or re-decking with structural deck replacement), a building permit may still be required. Confirm with the Development Services Center if the scope goes beyond like-for-like replacement.
Work without permit penalty
Beginning work without a permit triggers a $150 administrative fee in addition to the standard permit fee. Re-inspection fee is $50 per visit. Plan changes after submittal cost $50 per round. Budget the $150 floor and plan for at least one re-inspection if working under a stop-work order.
Refunds taper as inspections proceed
Norfolk's refund policy ties refunds to the inspection stage. After foundation inspection, 75% of the building permit fee is refundable. After framing inspection, 25%. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing rough-in inspections leave 40% refundable. Plan around this if a project is at risk of cancellation after partial inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
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Norfolk Building Code Schedule of Fees - City of Norfolk Effective July 1, 2021 - City of Norfolk Department of City Planning - Primary source for all permit fee categories: administrative fees, plan review tiers, residential and commercial permit fees, decks and porches tiers, swimming pools, electrical schedule, mechanical schedule, plumbing schedule, elevator and pier fees, and the 2% Virginia state levy disclosure - Extracted via pdfplumber and verified April 25, 2026 Verified
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Permits and Fees Index - City of Norfolk Department of City Planning Accessed April 25, 2026 - City of Norfolk - Index page linking the Building Permit Fee Schedule, Residential Building Permit Application, Commercial Building Permit Application, E-Permitting Portal, and Inspection scheduling
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Code of Virginia Section 36-137 - USBC State Levy Authority Current - Virginia General Assembly - Authorizing statute for the statewide 2% building permit surcharge applied in Virginia jurisdictions, including Norfolk
Compare Norfolk against neighboring Hampton Roads and DMV jurisdictions, or dive into the dedicated Norfolk pool permit guide.
Permit Fees Are One Part of Your Project Budget
Once you know your Norfolk permit cost, two related numbers complete your total budget picture:
Property tax impact after your project closes
A permitted addition or major renovation can change your assessed value in Norfolk. See how each Virginia jurisdiction calculates the ongoing property tax impact at CountyTaxTools.com.
Zoning, stormwater, and waterfront fees
Norfolk's coastal context means waterfront work (bulkheads, riprap, piers) carries its own permit fees. Zoning permits, sign permit reviews, and Public Health fees are also separate from the building permit. Research them at ZoneFee.com.