Codes, exemptions & field inspections
This guide translates the available agency record into a preconstruction checklist for structural scope, minor work, and inspection release. The adopted code and the issuing official control when a field condition is disputed.
Regulatory framework
2018 International Building, Plumbing, Fuel Gas, Existing Building, Residential, Property Maintenance, and Swimming Pool and Spa Codes; 2018 ICC/ANSI A117.1; 2020 National Electrical Code; 2015 Energy Code with exception; 2021 NFPA lift safety code; West Virginia State Fire Code; all subject to applicable West Virginia legislative-rule exceptions.
Inspection lane
Schedule or cancel inspections through Cloudpermit, or call the Planning and Permits Office at 304-647-6687 or 304-667-0132. The paper application advises that inspections may require 24 hours' notice.
Minor-work playbook
Structures used strictly for agricultural purposes and items exempt under the International Building Code are exempt from building-permit fees/inspections, but zoning, floodplain, other local rules, and assessor registration may still apply. An application may still be required for all new structures, significant upgrades over $2,500, and work involving fill or excavation.
Field rule
A permit exemption generally addresses one narrow construction trigger. It does not automatically waive zoning, land-use, floodplain, shoreline, fire, energy, electrical, utility, septic, or right-of-way requirements. Obtain written confirmation when the project involves a new structure, structural alteration, change in occupancy, or concealed work.
Inspection pipeline
Request with lead time
Schedule or cancel inspections through Cloudpermit, or call the Planning and Permits Office at 304-647-6687 or 304-667-0132. The paper application advises that inspections may require 24 hours' notice.
Preserve access
Do not cover framing, reinforcement, wiring, piping, damp-proofing, or life-safety work until the required inspection has been completed and documented.
Close the record
Retain the approved plans, inspection approvals, correction responses, and final certificate or occupancy release with the property file.
Contractor verification
Use the state licensing system to verify active registration, trade credentials, bond status, and liability coverage where available. Match the legal business name to the proposal and permit application.
Planning reference
A building permit is only one part of statutory compliance. Check the local zoning, ordinance, map, or land-use reference before finalizing setbacks, height, lot coverage, access, drainage, or accessory structure placement.
Open planning reference ↗Source trail
Use these direct agency or licensing links to confirm current instructions before you file, pay, or schedule work. External pages control if their information differs from this directory.
Project questions
Greenbrier County Planning and Permits Office is the identified county-level authority for this profile. Confirm that the property is in its service area before filing.
Begin with the online permit gateway listed in the application guide. If the portal does not recognize the address or project type, contact 304-647-6687.
Permits are issued or denied within 7 working days after complete application submittal and plan review.
Schedule or cancel inspections through Cloudpermit, or call the Planning and Permits Office at 304-647-6687 or 304-667-0132. The paper application advises that inspections may require 24 hours' notice.
2018 International Building, Plumbing, Fuel Gas, Existing Building, Residential, Property Maintenance, and Swimming Pool and Spa Codes; 2018 ICC/ANSI A117.1; 2020 National Electrical Code; 2015 Energy Code with exception; 2021 NFPA lift safety code; West Virginia State Fire Code; all subject to applicable West Virginia legislative-rule exceptions. Structures used strictly for agricultural purposes and items exempt under the International Building Code are exempt from building-permit fees/inspections, but zoning, floodplain, other local rules, and assessor registration may still apply. An application may still be required for all new structures, significant upgrades over $2,500, and work involving fill or excavation.
Field sequencing matters
Code compliance is not only a plan-review exercise. Footings, reinforcement, framing, fireblocking, wiring, piping, insulation, weather protection, and life-safety systems each have points where the work must remain accessible. Build the inspection calendar into the trade schedule instead of treating it as a final administrative step.
When a project qualifies for a narrow minor-work exemption, keep a written explanation of why it qualifies and confirm that related zoning, utility, fire, energy, or environmental rules do not create a separate approval requirement.
Closeout file
Keep the approved plan set, inspection approvals, correction responses, contractor license verification, final certificate, and any occupancy release together. A clean record protects the owner, builder, lender, insurer, and future buyer.