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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Grafton
A building permit is required for new construction (residential, commercial, industrial), building additions and alterations, finished basements and new rooms, garages, carports, decks, roofing, siding, windows (varies by scope), electrical/plumbing/mechanical work, signs, fences, outdoor structures, and demolition.
- Permit application
- Construction drawings
- Site plans
- Contractor license (if required)
- Building code
- 2015 International Building Code (IBC), 2015 International Residential Code (IRC), West Virginia State Building Code (WVSBC)
- Permit validity
- Permits are valid for one year from issuance; work must commence within 365 days or permit voids. Final inspection must occur within two years of permit issuance.
- Contractor requirements
- Residential projects of $2,500 or more (labor + materials) require a valid West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board (WVCLB) license. License types include Class B (General Building), Class B-2 (Residential), and Class B-3 (Multi-Family).
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Obtain building permit application form from graftonwv.org/about-1 (Forms page).
- 02 Prepare documentation: Construction drawings, site plans, contractor license verification if required.
- 03 Submit application to City of Grafton Building and Development Department in person or by mail to City Hall.
- 04 City building official reviews plans for code and zoning compliance.
- 05 Upon approval, permit is issued and applicant pays permit fees.
- 06 Work must commence within 365 days of permit issuance or permit becomes void.
- 07 Schedule required inspections as work progresses (foundation/footing, framing, electrical, plumbing, final).
- 08 Schedule final inspection when construction is complete.
- 09 Certificate of Occupancy is issued upon passing final inspection.
Source: City of Grafton Building and Development Department ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Contact City of Grafton (phone)
Typical sequence: Standard inspection stages: Foundation/Footing (excavation and foundation verification), Framing (structural components inspection), Electrical (rough-in and final), Plumbing (rough-in and final), Final Inspection (comprehensive final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy).
Frequently asked
Common questions about Grafton permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Grafton, WV? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Grafton, WV? ▸
03 How do I schedule a building inspection in Grafton, WV? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Grafton Building and Development Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.