Fairfax County, VA

[Eggward123]

Our chickens and a chicken coop came with the house we purchased from the previous owner. 3 years later, we are now finding out they didn't have a permit because someone reported it to the county. Do we have to rebuild the coop 50ft away from the property line if the adjoining neighbor doesnt care? How long was the permit process start to finish? How much was the permit? Do they send someone out to measure and mark where you are permitted/unpermitted to build?

 

[AdChick]

Literally copy the letter they include (points A-I) and answer the questions. If the question doesn't apply (B for instance, hours of operation) just write: does not apply.

And then at the end I listed the articles/provisions that we were requesting be amended for our needs. Art. 2-512 p(3b); art. 10-104 sec9 p(b); and 10-102 sec3. I added some fluff and explanation but not much. Your exceptions may be similar but make sure to read through the code and ensure you've addressed each article/section that applies. The only thing they wrote me back and requested I add was to include a statement regarding how the keeping of domestic fowl on my lot will be "harmonious" with the environment. My exact addition was:

The keeping of the proposed fowl shall be harmonious and compatible with the adjacent area. Thank you.

LOL. After I got an approval letter they tried to have me make additional changes but I refused - I already had the approval letter! Additionally, they asked to come by for a site visit but I refused since it's not required by any ordinance or statute.

Feel free to ask any other questions. Good luck!

Thank you GA41. Though it's been a while, just wanted to let you know how much your information helped me (and I'm sure many others!)