City of Fairmont

Building Permit required for: new construction, additions, alterations, structural changes, electrical/plumbing upgrades. Zoning Permit required for: exterior improvements when Building Permit not needed, sheds, sidewalks, driveways, fences, and smaller projects.

Building code

West Virginia State Building Code (2018 IBC-based with amendments); 2018 International Building Code (IBC 2018); 2018 International Residential Code (IRC 2018)

Permit validity

Building Permits issued become invalid unless work is commenced within 180 days of issuance. Building Inspector may grant extensions in writing for periods not exceeding 180 days each.

Contractor requirements

Contractors must comply with West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board (WVCLB) requirements. Residential work $2,500+, commercial $5,000+, and electrical work $1,000+ require a valid contractor license.

1. 01
   Contact Building Inspection Department at 304-366-6211 or visit Room 305 in person.
2. 02
   Obtain permit application form (Building Permit or Zoning Permit).
3. 03
   Complete application with project description, site plan, and cost estimate.
4. 04
   Submit application with required documentation and fees.
5. 05
   Permit review and approval by Building Inspector.
6. 06
   Inspection scheduling.
7. 07
   Final approval upon passing all inspections.

Typical processing time: Processing time varies; contact department for estimated timeline.

Source: Building Inspection Department ↗

• 304-366-6211 (phone)

Typical sequence: Fairmont requires inspections at the following stages: (1) Foundation/Footing — before concrete work, (2) Framing — before drywall/closure, (3) Rough Utilities — electrical, plumbing, HVAC before concealment, (4) Final — upon project completion. Violations must be corrected before proceeding to next stage.