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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Fayette County
Building permits are required for most structures with permanent foundations, electrical work, or located in floodplains. Single-family homes, additions, renovations, garages, finished basements, pools, and spas all require permits.
- Exempt Detached storage sheds 120 sq ft or less, one story, maximum 15 ft height (but electrical service to any shed requires a permit regardless of size)
- Exempt Work exempt from building permit may still be subject to zoning and setback rules
Note: Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning requirements. Confirm with Building Safety Department before proceeding with exempt work.
- Completed building permit application
- Site plan showing lot lines, setbacks, and existing structures
- Construction plans and building specifications
- Proof of contractor license or affidavit that work does not require licensure
- For properties in floodplain: Floodplain permit documentation
- Building code
- West Virginia State Building Code (2015 IBC/IRC with state amendments)
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders performing work on property they own may be exempt for single-family dwellings.
- Contractor requirements
- For residential work exceeding $10,000 or general contractors performing work of $5,000 or more, a WV Contractor License is required. Applicants must provide proof of license or file written affidavit that they are not subject to licensure.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Contact Fayette County Building Safety Department to obtain building permit application form
- 02 Complete application form with project details
- 03 Prepare site plan showing structure location, lot lines, setbacks, and existing structures
- 04 Prepare construction plans and building specifications
- 05 Submit application, site plan, and construction plans to county office
- 06 Pay application fee ($20) and permit fee (1% of construction cost)
- 07 County staff reviews application and issues permit or requests modifications
- 08 Schedule required inspections during construction
- 09 Pass all required inspections (foundation, rough-in, final)
- 10 Obtain Certificate of Occupancy upon completion
Fee schedule
Fayette County building permit fees
Application fee: $20.00; Electrical upgrades/service: $85.00; Failed electrical inspection: $85.00 each
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 304-574-4320 (phone)
Typical sequence: Foundation/footings, framing and structural, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, HVAC rough-in, final building. Electrical inspection performed by third-party; county office must verify approval.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Fayette County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Fayette County, WV? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Fayette County, WV? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Fayette County, WV? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Fayette County, WV? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Fayette County, WV? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Fayette County Building Safety Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.