Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce

March 24, 2025

As we’ve previously spoken about, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors is considering implementing a meals tax of up to 4% on all restaurant meals and prepared foods, in addition to the existing 6% Virginia sales tax. This tax could go into effect as early as January 2026, and your voice as a business owner or resident is important in shaping the outcome.

Key Details About the Proposed Meals Tax:

What It Is: A new meals tax of up to 4%, on top of the current 6% state sales tax, for a total of 10% on restaurant meals and prepared foods.

Revenue Impact: Estimated to generate $65.1 million in the first six months, with revenue going directly to Fairfax County.

Timeline:

Public Hearings: Scheduled for April 22–23, 2025

Budget & Tax Decision: Expected by May 13, 2025

Who It Affects: All restaurants and food service businesses in Fairfax County (except those in Herndon, Vienna, and Clifton, which already have their own meals taxes)

Stated Purpose: To reduce or avoid property tax increases or soften budget cuts.

Additional Consideration: The county is weighing a dealer discount, which would initially allow restaurants to retain a small percentage of the tax collected to offset administrative and implementation costs as well as to encourage timely payment of the tax.

Other Tax Increases: A Meals Tax isn’t the only proposed tax increase – the County has also proposed a 1.5-cent real estate tax increase and a 2 percent transient occupancy tax (Also known as a Hotel Occupancy Tax) increase.

Why It Matters to You: This issue may affect many of our chamber members, particularly those in the food service industry. We encourage you to review the full details and consider how this might impact your business or your neighboring restaurant.

Take Action: Let the Board of Supervisors know how this proposed tax would impact your business and customers.

To voice your opinion, you may contact your Supervisor using the emails below, on www.fairfaxcounty.gov/boardofsupervisors/, or by using the link on www.stopthefoodtax.com.