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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Franklin
Building permits are required for all new construction with permanent foundations, major building improvements or renovations, structure relocation, and demolition within the Town of Franklin.
- Exempt Agricultural buildings and structures utilized exclusively for agricultural purposes (exempt from West Virginia State Building Code provisions but subject to zoning and health department requirements)
Note: The Town of Franklin's Chapter 10 Zoning Ordinance may include overlay districts, special use provisions, or exemptions specific to the town's character. Verify with the Town of Franklin before proceeding with projects claiming exempt status.
- Completed permit application
- Site plans and construction drawings
- Zoning compliance verification (Chapter 10 - Zoning Ordinance)
- Proof of contractor licensure (if applicable)
- Trade-specific permits as required
- Building code
- West Virginia State Building Code (2018 International Residential Code with modifications), as adopted by the Town of Franklin and administered by the West Virginia State Fire Commission.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders are subject to West Virginia licensing requirements if project value exceeds $5,000 (residential) or $25,000 (commercial).
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold valid West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board licensure for projects $5,000+ (residential) or $25,000+ (commercial). Written contracts required for projects $10,000+ (materials + labor).
Application process
Typical processing: Processing timeline varies; contact the Town of Franklin or Pendleton County Commission for current estimates.
- 01 Confirm the property is located within Franklin town limits.
- 02 Review applicable municipal ordinances, particularly Chapter 10 (Zoning Ordinance) and any building or development overlay provisions.
- 03 Verify contractor licensing requirements: West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board requires licensure for projects $5,000+ (residential) or $25,000+ (commercial).
- 04 Gather required documentation: site plans, construction drawings, contractor license, and trade permits as applicable.
- 05 Contact the Town of Franklin or the Pendleton County Commission to obtain current application forms and fee information.
- 06 Submit permit application and fees to the appropriate town or county office in person or by mail.
- 07 Schedule and pass required inspections (footing, framing, rough MEP, final) before commencing and completing work.
Typical processing time: Processing timeline varies; contact the Town of Franklin or Pendleton County Commission for current estimates.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Town of Franklin or Pendleton County Commission: 304-358-7573 (phone)
- Town Hall, Franklin, WV 26807 (in-person)
Typical sequence: Standard sequence: foundational/footing inspection, framing inspection, rough MEP inspection, final inspection. All inspections verify compliance with West Virginia State Building Code (2018 IRC), Town of Franklin zoning ordinances (Chapter 10), and health department requirements.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Franklin permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Franklin, WV? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Franklin, WV? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Franklin, WV? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Franklin, WV? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Franklin, WV? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Town of Franklin Municipal Government before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.