Types of Permits Required by the City of Martinsville

1. Building Permits

Required for constructing, moving, altering, or demolishing structures, including electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, and fire-protection systems. Ensures compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code 

2. Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing & Gas Fitting Permits

Often bundled with building permits, these ensure that specialized systems meet safety and code standards.

3. Fire Protection Permits

Issued by the city’s fire marshal (or county for some areas), covering fire-suppression systems like sprinklers.

4. Land Disturbance / Erosion & Sediment Control Permits

Required for any construction disturbing more than 10,000 sq ft, issued by the Engineering Department to control runoff and protect local waterways 

5. Sign Permits

Any exterior signage requires a permit to ensure compliance with zoning ordinances and reflect Uptown design standards.

6. Zoning-Related Permits

• Rezoning: to change land-use designation.

• Special-Use Permit: for uses not directly allowed under current zoning.

• Variance: when a project deviates from zoning requirements
  Handled by the Planning & Zoning office.

7. Demolition Permits

Needed before removing existing structures—managed through the Building Inspection office. 

7. Mural & Public Art Permits

All murals now require approval from Community Development, with oversight from the Architectural Review Board and Arts & Cultural Committee. 

8. Special Events 

A Special Event approval may be required when: 1) Use of any city-owned property is involved. 2) Coordination between two or more permitting agencies is needed. 3) Food and alcohol are being sold or served to the public. 4) The event requires street or road closures. 5) Public safety may be at risk. 

Applications

Apply Here for Mural & Public Art Permit

Apply Here for Special Events

Apply Here for Other General Permits