Agreements in Lieu of a Plan 

Construction of a single-family dwelling unit or farm buildings/structures require approval of a land disturbing permit prior to issuance of a zoning/building permit if more than 10,000 square feet is being disturbed.  

Single family dwellings that disturb less than 5 acres and farm buildings/structures that will result in a total impervious cover percentage of less than 5% can be permitted with an “Agreement in Lieu of a Plan.” An “Agreement in Lieu of a Plan” is a contract between the VESMP Authority (the County) and the owner that specifies erosion and sediment control measures that must be implemented and maintained during construction.  

Although a plan is not required in the above instances, additional information may be required in certain circumstances and must be submitted as described in the applications.  

Land Disturbing Permit (LDP) for Projects with Less than 1 Acre of Disturbance 

Activity that disturbs more than 10,000 square feet and less than one (1) acre of disturbance  requires a land disturbing permit. This includes agricultural activity not meeting the requirements set forth in Section 11-5 of the Fauquier County Code. 

Land Disturbing Permit (LDP)/VESMP Authority Permit for Projects with More than 1 Acre of Disturbance 

Activity that disturbs more than one (1) acre (more than 5 acres for a single-family dwelling) OR more than 10,000 square feet of conversion to impervious area requires a Land Disturbing Permit and a Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Program (VESMP) Authority Permit. 

Land Disturbing Permit (LDP)/VESMP Authority Permit for Projects with an Approved Site Plan/Construction Plan/Infrastructure Plan  

Site work cannot begin and building permits cannot be issued until the Site Plan/Construction Plan/Infrastructures Plan is RELEASED. A Land Disturbing Permit and a VESMP Authority Permit are required for release.