City of Chester

Building permits are required for construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, remodeling, and moving of buildings and structures.

• Exempt Farm buildings used primarily for agricultural purposes may be exempt from building code requirements (verify with city).

Note: Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning and land use compliance. Floodplain restrictions apply to riverfront and low-lying properties along the Ohio River. Verify property constraints with city before proceeding.

Building code

Specific building code edition adopted by Chester not determined in research. City enforces municipal building ordinances and zoning code. State-adopted 2015 IBC and 2015 IRC apply to projects under state fire marshal review (public buildings, commercial >7,600 sq ft).

Owner-builder

Owner-builders must provide affidavit of non-licensure if project is under $2,500 threshold or exempt.

Contractor requirements

Contractors must hold a valid West Virginia contractor license for work valued at $2,500 or more (labor + materials).

1. 01
   Contact Chester City Hall at (304) 387-2820 to verify property is within city limits.
2. 02
   Request building permit application form from city.
3. 03
   Prepare site plans, construction drawings, and contractor license documentation.
4. 04
   Submit application in-person at 375 Carolina Avenue or by mail with application fee.
5. 05
   City staff reviews application for code and zoning compliance.
6. 06
   Upon approval, permit is issued; post permit visibly at job site before construction begins.
7. 07
   Schedule required inspections with City Hall.
8. 08
   Upon final inspection approval, work clearance or certificate of occupancy issued.

Typical processing time: Time varies; contact City Hall for estimated turnaround.

• (304) 387-2820 (phone)

Typical sequence: Typical inspections include foundation, framing, MEP, and final inspections. Contact Chester City Hall to schedule inspections; inspector approval required at each stage.