Nottoway’s building official explains permits, enforcement and noncompliance notices

Nicholas Bowles, Nottoway County’s building official, presented a plain-language overview of the Uniform Statewide Building Code and local permitting practice, telling the board the code exists "to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia." He outlined what typically requires a permit — construction, system alterations, changes of occupancy and fire/life-safety changes — and described exceptions and emergency procedures for work begun in an emergency.

Bowles said the building department administers plan review, site inspections and follow-up on complaints. He told the board the office has begun sending notices to property owners who have done work without permits and that staff will follow up with those who have not responded. He emphasized the role of education and customer service and said the department will provide clearer guidance for agricultural outbuildings and other commonly asked questions.

"Remember, the USBC is the law of Virginia," Bowles said, urging residents to consult the county’s flyer and website for examples of when a permit is required. The board asked staff to add language clarifying agricultural exemptions and to publish the permit guidance on the county website.