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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Barbour County
A development permit is required for most structures in unincorporated Barbour County areas, including all new residential construction (single-family homes, manufactured homes, mobile homes) and substantial improvements (additions, garage, deck, shed, carport, driveway, etc.). Mandatory if property is within or near a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Note: West Virginia does not mandate a statewide residential building code for unincorporated areas. Exemptions and permit requirements vary by county and jurisdiction. Verify with Barbour County directly before proceeding.
- Completed Development Permit application
- Site plan or sketch showing property layout
- Proof of septic and/or well permits from Barbour County Health Department (if applicable)
- Evidence of NPDES stormwater permit or notification (if land disturbance ≥1 acre)
- Floodplain permit documentation (if property in or near SFHA)
- Building code
- International Residential Code (IRC) where adopted; WV State Building Code (based on 2015 IBC) for commercial/public structures; Barbour County Floodplain Ordinance BC-18-1.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders are permitted to construct on their own property; must comply with all county regulations and code standards.
- Contractor requirements
- General contractors working on projects valued $5,000 or more must hold a valid WV Contractor License. Electrical work valued $1,000+ requires a licensed electrician.
Application process
Typical processing: Varies; expedited if all required documents provided. Typically 5-15 business days for development permits.
- 01 Obtain Development Permit application from Barbour County Commission or Emergency Management office.
- 02 Complete application with site plan/sketch showing property layout.
- 03 Obtain Septic & Well Permit from Barbour County Health Department (if required for on-site wastewater or water supply).
- 04 If land disturbance ≥1 acre, obtain NPDES Construction Stormwater General Permit approval from WV Department of Environmental Protection.
- 05 If property is in or near Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), obtain Floodplain Permit from Barbour County Emergency Management/Floodplain Administration.
- 06 Submit completed Development Permit application with all supporting documentation to county.
- 07 County reviews and issues Development Permit.
- 08 Begin construction after permit issuance.
Typical processing time: Varies; expedited if all required documents provided. Typically 5-15 business days for development permits.
Source: Barbour County Commission / Emergency Management & Floodplain Administration ↗
Fee schedule
Barbour County building permit fees
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Barbour County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Barbour County, WV? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Barbour County, WV? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Barbour County, WV? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Barbour County, WV? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Barbour County Commission / Emergency Management & Floodplain Administration before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.