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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Shepherdstown
Building a new structure or house. Building shedding structures (sheds). Building extensions. Fences. Any structural modifications or additions. Change of use or occupancy.
Note: Historic district covers approximately 80% of the town, affecting most development. Certificate of Appropriateness required BEFORE building permit issuance for historic district properties. Confirm specific exemptions with Town Hall before proceeding.
- Completed permit application
- Plot plans
- Specifications and drawings (drawn to scale as required)
- Building floor plans (where applicable)
- Certificate of Appropriateness application (if in historic district)
- Building code
- 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) and 2018 International Building Code (IBC) as of August 1, 2022. Shepherdstown Planning and Zoning Ordinance (Title 9, as amended through 2017). Local zoning ordinance with six zoning districts. Historic district overlay covering approximately 80% of the town.
- Contractor requirements
- For residential projects $5,000+: WVCLB license required. For commercial projects $25,000+: WVCLB license required. For electrical work $1,000+: WVCLB license required.
Source: Town Hall, Zoning Officer and Planning & Zoning Functions ↗
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Contact Town Hall at 304-283-0528 or email gsisco@shepherdstown.gov
- 02 Obtain building permit application form
- 03 Complete application with property owner signature
- 04 Attach plot plans, specifications, and drawings (drawn to scale as required)
- 05 Building floor plans required where applicable
- 06 If in historic district: Obtain and complete Certificate of Appropriateness application
- 07 Submit Historic Landmarks Commission application BEFORE submitting building permit (if required)
- 08 Historic Landmarks Commission reviews for design appropriateness (if historic district property)
- 09 Upon Historic Landmarks Commission approval, submit building permit application
- 10 Town Office processes permit and collects fees
- 11 Permit issued; work may commence
Source: Town Hall, Zoning Officer and Planning & Zoning Functions ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday
Typical sequence: Zoning Officer review of application. Code compliance inspection during construction (as needed). Final inspection upon completion. Certificate of Occupancy issued upon passing final inspection.
Source: Town Hall, Zoning Officer and Planning & Zoning Functions ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Shepherdstown permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Shepherdstown, WV? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Shepherdstown, WV? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Town Hall, Zoning Officer and Planning & Zoning Functions before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.