August 1, 2025
Swimming pools – Swimming pools are great for beating the heat. Here are some rules and recommendations to help keep your pool safe and secure.
The Virginia Property Maintenance Code (VPMC) requires that pools be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, and in good repair. Cracked and crumbling pool floors or murky, green water is likely a violation.
Pool barrier (fence) requirements have changed over time. Before the 1990s, fencing a property’s perimeter may have sufficed for pools for private residential use; however, if that same pool was installed today, there must be a fence at least four feet tall around the pool area. Regardless of what type of fence was required at the time of pool installation, that fence must be maintained in good repair.
Community pools and other pools available for more than private residential use must meet the Water Recreation Facilities Ordinance.
It may be tempting to rent a pool on a site such as Swimply to make a little extra income. However, that violates the Zoning Ordinance because doing so is an outdoor commercial recreation use that cannot be permitted in any residential zoning district.
While the following is not a regulation – it’s recommended to keep away from your pool any outdoor furniture, decorative walls, play equipment or other objects that may afford a small child unintended access to a pool.
DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.
July 1, 2025
Grilling Safety – Summer’s here! If you are firing up the grill anytime soon, here is some information to help keep you safe.
First, make sure you can have a grill or open-flame device at your home. Fairfax County Fire Prevention Code prohibits the use and storage of open-flame, charcoal, gas, and/or propane-fueled grills on apartment or condominium balconies. Ask your apartment or management company about any other rules that apply to grills or open-flame devices.
When being used, grills should be at least 15 feet away from the building.
Propane is a popular fuel source but is also a volatile hazardous material and flammable gas. Always check propane cylinders for excessive rust, pitting, or other visual defects. To avoid leaks, make sure the regulator hose connecting the grill and cylinder is free of tears, dry rot, or other damage. If in doubt, replace your cylinder or any gas accessories that show signs of wear.
The four numbers printed on top the cylinder indicate the manufacture date. For example, 0717 means July of 2017. Any cylinder over 12 years of age must have a requalification sticker.
Along with ensuring the propane cylinder is free of visual defects and within date, it is very important that it is stored, protected, and secured upright, and kept from falling.
Don’t store fuel like charcoal and lighter fluid near your grill.
The Office of the Fire Marshal’s website includes other rules and recommendations for your cookout, and Health Department food safety information is available online.
DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300, TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.
June 2, 2025
Safe exit – The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) enforces the Virginia Property Maintenance Code (VPMC). Among other requirements, the VPMC helps ensure residents a safe exit in the event of a fire or other emergency. Here are some examples.
Smoke alarms must be maintained capable of alerting occupants to a fire.
Hallways and other areas required for movement out of a space (egress) must not be blocked by belongings or other obstructions.
From inside of a building, doors and windows must be openable without keys or an unreasonable amount of required force.
Basement bedroom windows are considered emergency escape and rescue openings under the VPMC. Any grills or grates installed on these windows must be releasable from the inside of the bedroom, among other requirements.
Porches and decks are a place to recreate but may also become a back-up way to the outside in an emergency. Porches, decks, and any associated staircases must be maintained structurally sound.
DCC accepts and investigates reports of potential VPMC violations related to egress issues, mainly in residential structures. The Office of the Fire Marshal addresses similar requirements in business spaces.
DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.