Starting A Business In Prince William County

Opening a new business is a significant investment of financial and personal resources. New businesses are important to the financial health of the County. The County wants to assist you through the regulatory process to ensure your business has a positive impact on the community and neighborhood, is safe to occupy, and opens as quickly as possible.

Since each business and its proposed location are unique, it is important to note that there will be variations among projects. Here are some important steps you need to know:

1. Existing conditions - Before purchasing a building or signing a lease ask the current building owner or the leasing company to provide information on the status of the site, building, and tenant space to determine the impact of the existing conditions on the process of opening your business.
2. Zoning – Confirm the existing approved Zoning, and determine that your proposed use is permitted on the site in accordance with the Prince William County Zoning Ordinance.
3. Proffers or Conditions – Confirm whether the property is subject to any monetary, site or architectural proffers or conditions.
4. Certificate of Occupancy – Determine the previous occupant and verify that a Certificate of Occupancy was issued. Also, compare the Building Code Use Group of the Certificate of Occupancy with the Building Code Use Group for your business. See Building Use Group Definitions and Use Groups & Certificate of Occupancy for more information.
5. Joint Occupancy Evaluation Program - Determine if your proposed location qualifies for the Joint Occupancy Evaluation Program, which can expedite the occupancy process.
6. Site and Building Plans – Determine if the current building owner or the leasing company can provide copies of previously approved site plans and building plans. If revised/new plans are required during the process, significant costs can be saved.

If the current building owner or leasing agent cannot provide any or all the above information, contact or visit the County. The Planning Office, Zoning Administration,  and the Building Development Division are located in the Development Services Building at 5 County Complex Court, Prince William, VA 22192.

To learn more, visit: https://www.pwcva.gov/department/development-services/starting-business, email: [email protected] or call (703) 792-6930.