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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Cabell County
Building Registration Certificates and/or Floodplain Permits must be secured prior to ANY new construction or remodeling of an existing structure in unincorporated Cabell County. Structures over 256 sq ft require a building permit. Structures in a floodplain require a Floodplain Permit regardless of size. Solar panel installations require a permit and structural analysis.
- Exempt Structures 256 sq ft or less may be exempt from the building registration certificate (but floodplain rules may still apply if in a flood zone)
- Exempt Routine maintenance and minor repairs not involving new construction or remodeling
Note: The county does not publish a detailed exempt work list publicly. Contact Chad Nelson at 304-526-9704 or cnelson@cabellcounty.org for specific exemption guidance.
- Completed Building Registration Certificate / Floodplain Permit application
- Site plan with structure location and setbacks
- Copy of property survey (required for some project types)
- WV Contractor's License copy
- Septic system approval from Cabell-Huntington Health Department OR proof of sewer tap
- Structural drawings or plans as applicable
- Building code
- WV State Building Code
- Contractor requirements
- WV Contractor's License copy required with application.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Determine if the property is in unincorporated Cabell County (outside Huntington, Barboursville, and Milton city limits).
- 02 Download the Building Registration Certificate and/or Floodplain Permit Application from county website or pick up at 720 4th Avenue.
- 03 Prepare a site plan showing the proposed structure's location and setbacks from property lines.
- 04 If in a floodplain, prepare additional floodplain documentation (elevation certificate may be required).
- 05 Include a copy of the WV Contractor's License.
- 06 Obtain septic system approval through the Cabell-Huntington Health Department OR provide proof of a sewer tap if public sewer is available.
- 07 Submit the completed application with all supporting documents to the Planning Department at 720 4th Avenue, Huntington WV 25701.
- 08 Pay applicable fees.
- 09 Permit/registration certificate issued upon review and approval.
- 10 Schedule any required inspections through the Planning and Permits office.
Source: Cabell County Commission -- Office of Grants, Planning and Development (Planning and Permits) ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 304-526-9704 (phone)
- cnelson@cabellcounty.org (email)
- Inspection hours
- Standard county business hours, Monday through Friday
Typical sequence: Not publicly detailed. Contact the planning office for project-specific inspection requirements.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Cabell County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Cabell County, WV? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Cabell County, WV? ▸
03 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Cabell County, WV? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Cabell County, WV? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Cabell County Commission -- Office of Grants, Planning and Development (Planning and Permits) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.