Dunbar, WV - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

Covers the incorporated city limits of Dunbar, located on the south bank of the Kanawha River between Charleston and South Charleston.

Department

City of Dunbar Building Inspector / Zoning Officer

Address

210 12th Street, Dunbar, WV 25064

Phone

(304) 766-0217

Website

https://www.cityofdunbarwv.gov/buildinginspector.html

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Download the Building Permit application from the city website or pick it up at City Hall.
2. Prepare two copies of a layout/plot plan showing: the exact size and location of proposed structure on the lot, location of accessory buildings, and information necessary for zoning compliance enforcement.
3. Submit both copies of the application and plot plan to the Building Inspector at 210 12th Street.
4. Pay the permit fee per Article 1725 of the city code. The Property Owner is liable for all permit fees.
5. Receive permit and post on site.
6. Schedule required inspections.

Source: City of Dunbar Building Inspector / Zoning Officer

General Requirements

All building construction within the city limits of Dunbar.

Required Documents

• Completed permit application
• Two copies of plot plan showing structure size, location on lot, and accessory buildings
• Information necessary for zoning compliance

Building code

WV state-adopted codes (2018 IBC, 2018 IRC, effective August 1, 2022)

Owner-builder

Property Owner is liable for all permit fees.

Contractor requirements

Valid WV state contractor license required.

Fees

Permit fee formula

Specified in Article 1725 of city code. Sign fees include: $0.25 per sq ft for non-electrical signs; $1.00 per sq ft for internally lit electrical signs; $0.50 per sq ft for externally illuminated signs.

Payment note

In-person at City Hall; fees collected by the Building Inspector.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the City of Dunbar Building Inspector / Zoning Officer to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• (304) 766-0217 (phone)

Inspection hours

Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Additional Resources

• Building code: WV state-adopted codes (2018 IBC, 2018 IRC, effective August 1, 2022)
• Zoning information: View zoning info
• City departments
• City code (permits and fees)
• License lookup guide: West Virginia Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: West Virginia Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• West Virginia hub: West Virginia Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Dunbar Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Dunbar, WV?

All building construction within the city limits of Dunbar.

How much does a building permit cost in Dunbar, WV?

Fees are calculated as: Specified in Article 1725 of city code. Sign fees include: $0.25 per sq ft for non-electrical signs; $1.00 per sq ft for internally lit electrical signs; $0.50 per sq ft for externally illuminated signs..

How do I apply for a building permit in Dunbar, WV?

1. Download the Building Permit application from the city website or pick it up at City Hall. 2. Prepare two copies of a layout/plot plan showing: the exact size and location of proposed structure on the lot, location of accessory buildings, and information necessary for zoning compliance enforcement. 3. Submit both copies of the application and plot plan to the Building Inspector at 210 12th Street. 4. Pay the permit fee per Article 1725 of the city code. The Property Owner is liable for all permit fees. 5. Receive permit and post on site. 6. Schedule required inspections.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Dunbar, WV?

Inspections can be scheduled via: (304) 766-0217.

Other cities in Kanawha County