Fairfax County announced on Mar. 30 the launch of its Tenant Support Services (TSS) Pilot Program, aimed at helping small business tenants with projects involving minor interior alterations and spaces of 5,000 square feet or less.
The new initiative is intended to streamline the permit approval process for small tenant projects by offering early guidance, setting clear expectations, and providing coordinated review support. The county encourages applicants to contact the program before signing a lease to ensure their proposed business use is compatible with zoning and building codes.
According to Fairfax County officials, participants in the TSS Pilot Program will receive a single point of contact within county government throughout their project. The program offers an early review of proposed operations before a lease is signed, outlines the entire permit approval process—including agency involvement and submission requirements—and provides coordinated design support to help reduce resubmissions and unexpected delays.
Eligible submissions can expect expedited building permit reviews with a target turnaround time of three to five business days. Continued assistance will be available through construction, inspections, and issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.
Interested parties are invited to submit an interest form online. A staff coordinator will reach out within two business days to determine eligibility and explain next steps. Additional details about eligibility criteria and information on the pilot phase can be found on Fairfax County’s Tenant Support Service Pilot Program webpage.
The TSS Pilot Program reflects ongoing efforts by Fairfax County government to assist small businesses in navigating regulatory processes more efficiently.