Palestine (Unincorporated Community)

A building permit is required for all new construction, additions, structural modifications, installations with permanent foundations, and any work involving electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems. Accessory structures with utilities also require permits.

• Exempt Small sheds and structures without utilities or permanent foundations may not require permits (verify with Assessor's Office).
• Exempt Agricultural structures used exclusively for agricultural purposes are exempt from West Virginia State Building Code. Exemption request must be submitted to West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

Note: Exemptions from building permit do NOT apply to properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas. All structures in flood zones must comply with FEMA floodplain management regulations regardless of exemption status.

Building code

2018 International Building Code (IBC), 2018 International Residential Code (IRC), 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), 2015 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC), plus FEMA floodplain management regulations for Special Flood Hazard Areas.

Contractor requirements

For construction valued at $2,500 or more (residential) or $5,000 or more (commercial), a licensed contractor under West Virginia Code Chapter 30-42 is required. Contractor must pass West Virginia Business and Law Examination, maintain wage bond affidavit, and register with WV Secretary of State.

1. 01
   Contact Wirt County Assessor's Office to request building permit application.
2. 02
   Complete the building permit form (PDF available online).
3. 03
   Determine if property is within a FEMA flood zone using the WV Flood Tool.
4. 04
   Submit application with required documentation: site plans, project description, and contractor licensing proof if applicable.
5. 05
   For flood zone properties, provide elevation certificate if required.
6. 06
   Assessor's Office reviews for compliance with West Virginia State Building Code and FEMA floodplain standards (if applicable).
7. 07
   Permit issued upon approval.
8. 08
   Schedule required inspections before work commences and at completion.

Typical processing time: Processing time varies; may be extended for flood zone properties requiring FEMA compliance. Contact Assessor's Office for current estimate.

• (304) 275-3192 (phone)

Typical sequence: Required inspections: (1) Foundation inspection, (2) Framing inspection, (3) Utility inspection (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), (4) Final inspection. For flood zone properties, elevation verification and flood-resistant material inspection may be required as part of final inspection.