City of Spencer

A building permit is required for new building/structure construction, additions, structural alterations, interior/exterior remodeling, roof replacements (except low-pitch re-roofs), electrical/plumbing/mechanical system work, demolition, septic system installation/modification, and any work requiring contractor licensing ($2,500+).

• Exempt Low-pitch roof re-roofs may be exempt from full building permit requirement if certain conditions are met

Note: Confirm exemption eligibility with Building Department before proceeding. Agricultural exemption does not apply within city limits.

Building code

West Virginia State Building Code (effective July 1, 2025), State Fire Code, International Residential Code (IRC), National Electrical Code (NEC), Plumbing/Mechanical Codes

Contractor requirements

Contractors performing work valued at $2,500 or more must be licensed by the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board (WVCLB).

1. 01
   Contact Spencer Building Department to confirm permit requirements.
2. 02
   Gather documentation: completed Building Permit Application, site survey, building plans and specifications, proof of property ownership or authorization.
3. 03
   For septic systems: obtain perk test results if applicable.
4. 04
   Submit application and documents to Building Department at City Hall.
5. 05
   City reviews application for code compliance (typically 4 weeks or less).
6. 06
   City either approves permit or issues review letter requesting modifications.
7. 07
   Pay permit fees upon approval.
8. 08
   Begin construction under permit authorization.
9. 09
   Schedule and pass required inspections (foundation, framing, electrical/plumbing rough, final, occupancy).
10. 10
    Receive occupancy permit after final inspection.

Typical processing time: 4 weeks or less

Source: City of Spencer Building Department ↗

• Spencer Building Department (phone)
• 116 Court Street, Spencer, WV 25276 (in-person)

Inspection hours

Monday–Friday, standard business hours

Typical sequence: Required inspections: foundation/footing inspection (before concrete pour), framing inspection (after structural framing completion, before wall closure), electrical rough inspection (before drywall), plumbing rough inspection (before wall closure), mechanical/HVAC rough inspection (before wall closure), final inspection (all work complete and code-compliant), occupancy inspection (before occupancy).