Unincorporated Jackson County

Building permits required for buildings and structures of all types, except exempted structures.

• Exempt Buildings less than 200 square feet
• Exempt Agricultural structures (subject to confirmation with County Commission)
• Exempt Minor detached accessory structures ≤120 sq ft (subject to zoning compliance)

Note: Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning and land use regulations. Confirm with Jackson County Commission before proceeding.

Building code

West Virginia State Building Code (WVSBC) based on 2018 IBC and 2015 IRC, where adopted; local adoption is voluntary and may vary.

Permit validity

Once issued, construction must commence within 180 days; work may not cease for more than 180 days without permit suspension or expiration.

Contractor requirements

Persons performing work must comply with West Virginia Code § 30-42 contractor licensing requirements for residential projects ≥$2,500 and commercial projects ≥$25,000.

1. 01
   Obtain building permit application form from Jackson County Commission office.
2. 02
   Complete application with project details and supporting documentation.
3. 03
   Submit application to County Commission in person or by mail.
4. 04
   County staff reviews application and requested documents.
5. 05
   County issues permit decision within 7–10 working days of receiving complete application.
6. 06
   If approved, construction may begin upon permit receipt.
7. 07
   If denied or additional information is needed, applicant is notified of conditions.

Typical processing time: 7–10 working days from receipt of complete application

Source: Jackson County Commission — Department of Public Works Development Division ↗

• (304) 373-2220 (phone)

Inspection hours

Office hours during business hours; meetings held Thursdays at Commission office

Typical sequence: Inspections include building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and final inspections, scheduled upon request after permit issuance.