City of New Martinsville

Building permits are required for new building construction, structural additions or modifications, alterations involving electrical/mechanical/plumbing systems, demolition of structures, work in floodplain areas, and any exterior or interior work affecting building systems.

• Exempt Structures used exclusively for agricultural purposes
• Exempt County or state projects
• Exempt Jobs with project value up to $500

Note: Agricultural structures exempt from building code; agritourism activities do not alter agricultural classification. Floodplain Development Permits are required for properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas; FEMA elevation certificates frequently required. Floodplain permits cannot be waived.

Building code

West Virginia State Building Code (2018 International Building Code with state amendments), Chapter 1331 (Building and Housing Code) and Chapter 1336 (Planning and Zoning Code) of New Martinsville Codified Ordinances

Contractor requirements

Contractors must hold a valid West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board (WVCLB) license throughout construction. License verification: https://wvclboard.wv.gov/verify/

1. 01
   Obtain application forms from City Building Department or download from website.
2. 02
   Complete application with project details, plans, and property information.
3. 03
   Submit application and architectural/engineering plans in person at City Hall, 191 Main Street.
4. 04
   Building Department reviews plans for code compliance and zoning compliance.
5. 05
   Pay applicable building permit fee based on project cost.
6. 06
   Receive permit upon approval.
7. 07
   Contractor/owner schedules inspections for each required phase.
8. 08
   Final inspection and sign-off upon project completion.
9. 09
   Certificate of Occupancy issued if residential/commercial occupancy required.

Typical processing time: Variable; contact Building Department for estimates.

Source: City of New Martinsville Building Department ↗

• (304) 455-8200 (phone)

Typical sequence: Required inspection phases: 1) Foundation/footing inspection, 2) Framing inspection (after rough framing complete), 3) Mechanical/electrical/plumbing rough-in inspection (before drywall closure), 4) Final inspection (prior to occupancy or certificate of occupancy). Building Department may require additional inspections.