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Shed Permits in WV: The Ultimate Guide
Thinking about adding a shed to your West Virginia property? Before you start clearing land or ordering materials, it is important to understand the permit rules that may apply. Shed permits in WV can vary by county and city, and requirements often depend on the shed’s size, location, and whether it will have electricity or a permanent foundation.
In this ultimate guide, we will break down when you need a permit, how to stay compliant with local building and zoning codes, and the steps to take so you can build your shed with confidence and avoid costly delays.
Do I Need a Permit to Build a Shed in WV?
Yes, in West Virginia, you will likely need a permit to build a shed, especially if it exceeds a certain size or includes electric, plumbing, or mechanical systems. Because requirements vary by county and city, many homeowners also need zoning or development approval to confirm setback distances and proper placement on the property. Checking local regulations upfront can help you avoid delays, fines, or costly changes after construction begins.
Do I Need a Permit to Run Electricity to My Shed in WV?
Yes, in West Virginia, you will almost always need an electrical permit if you plan to bring power to a shed, since state and local electrical codes typically require the work to be inspected for safety and code compliance, especially for permanent wiring or underground lines. Even in areas where a small shed (such as one under 200 sq. ft.) might not require a building permit, adding any utility connection usually still requires permitting and inspection.
What Is The Maximum Size of A Shed Without Planning Permission in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, a detached residential storage shed usually does not require a building permit if it is 120 square feet or smaller. In most cases, it must be a one-story structure and, depending on the local jurisdiction, may also need to stay under a 15-foot height limit. That said, zoning rules and setback requirements still apply, and some counties may enforce more restrictive regulations.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Building Permit in West Virginia?
Building permit turnaround times in West Virginia depend on the city or county issuing the permit. Small projects may be approved in as little as 72 hours, while more involved builds, especially engineered or commercial work that requires detailed plan review, can take several weeks. In many cases, minor permits are issued within a few days, but larger projects commonly take about 7 to 10 business days to review.
Shed Permit Requirements For Cities in West Virginia
To find shed permit requirements for your city in West Virginia, review the table below and locate your city. The table links to the appropriate local building or zoning office responsible for permit enforcement. Contacting the listed office will help you confirm current shed rules and ensure your project meets local requirements.
| Beckley | Building Permits & Inspections |
| Bridgeport | Permits & Applications |
| Charles Town | Building Inspection & Code Compliance |
| Charleston | Building |
| Cheat Lake | Building Enforcement & Permits |
| Clarksburg | Building Permits |
| Fairmont | Building Inspection & Permits |
| Huntington | Building Permit |
| Martinsburg | Building & Permits |
| Morgantown | Building Permits |
| Oak Hill | Building & Construction Permits |
| Parkersburg | Building Permits |
| South Charleston | Building Permits & Inspections |
| St. Albans | Building & Zoning |
| Teays Valley | Planning & Infrastructure |
| Vienna | Building Code & Inspection |
| Weirton | Building Inspections & Code Enforcement |
| Wheeling | Building & Planning |
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Beckley, WV?
Yes, in the City of Beckley, West Virginia, you typically need a building permit to construct a shed, since the Code Enforcement Department requires permits for new structures and most structural changes. Homeowners must complete a Building Permit Pre-Application and submit it to the Code Enforcement office at 232 Industrial Drive.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Bridgeport, WV?
Yes, you typically need a building permit to build a shed in the City of Bridgeport, West Virginia, since the city requires permits for constructing new buildings or structures, as well as for making changes to existing ones, according to the City of Bridgeport Building Permit Application.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Charles Town, WV?
Yes, you will usually need a permit to build a shed in Charles Town, WV. While some smaller accessory structures may qualify for exceptions, a zoning permit is commonly required to verify setbacks and proper placement. In addition, a building permit is often required for larger sheds, typically those over 200 square feet or any shed that includes electrical or plumbing. Since requirements can vary and may change over time, it is strongly recommended to contact the Jefferson County Office of Building Permits and Inspections to confirm the exact rules for your property.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Charleston, WV?
Yes, in Charleston, West Virginia, most construction projects require a permit from the City of Charleston Building Department before any work starts. This includes sheds, as well as new builds and additions. These permits help ensure the project meets safety standards and follows local zoning requirements.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Cheat Lake, WV?
Yes, in Cheat Lake, West Virginia, you should usually confirm both Building Enforcement and Permits requirements and local zoning rules, especially for larger sheds or if your property is in a specific subdivision. While very small sheds may not need a building permit, Monongalia County zoning regulations often still control setbacks and placement. In some situations, adding a new access point may also require a permit from the West Virginia Department of Highways.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Clarksburg, WV?
Yes, you typically need a building permit to build a shed in the City of Clarksburg, West Virginia, since the city uses Cloudpermit to issue permits for constructing, modifying, or placing new structures. Although size-based exemptions can vary, most residential projects still require city approval to confirm the shed meets zoning, setback, and safety requirements.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Fairmont, WV?
Yes, you will generally need a building permit to build a shed in the City of Fairmont, West Virginia, since sheds are typically treated as smaller projects that still require approval. Permits are commonly required for constructing or modifying accessory structures, and you must also follow local setback rules. It is strongly recommended to contact the Fairmont Building Inspections Department to confirm requirements and get approval before starting construction.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Huntington, WV?
Yes, in Huntington, West Virginia, you will generally need a building or zoning permit to install a shed, especially if it includes a permanent foundation, exceeds a certain size limit, or involves electrical or plumbing work. These permits help ensure the shed meets local setback requirements and safety codes. While smaller portable sheds may be exempt, it is still important to confirm the exact requirements with the city’s building department before starting.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Martinsburg, WV?
Yes, you will typically need a building permit to put up a shed in Martinsburg, West Virginia, since the city requires permits for new construction and processes applications through My Government Online. Permit requirements often vary based on the shed’s size and placement, and you may also need to confirm zoning rules, site plan requirements, or floodplain restrictions. Contact the Martinsburg Building & Permit Department for more information.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Morgantown, WV?
Yes, you will usually need a permit to build a shed in Morgantown, West Virginia, since the city requires permits for most new construction and accessory structures. You may also need to submit a Real Property Improvement Form with the Monongalia County Assessor. In general, permits are required for sheds with a foundation, any electrical or plumbing work, or structures that exceed smaller size limits, often around 10×10.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Oak Hill, WV?
Yes, you typically need a building permit to build or place a storage building or shed in the City of Oak Hill, West Virginia. The city specifically includes storage building construction or installation as work that requires a permit, and since Fayette County follows adopted building codes and zoning regulations, permitting is generally required.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Parkersburg, WV?
In Parkersburg, West Virginia, you typically do not need a building permit for a detached, one-story accessory structure such as a shed if it is 120 square feet or smaller. However, if the shed is larger than 120 square feet or if it includes electrical, gas, or plumbing work, you will generally need to obtain a permit through the City of Parkersburg building and zoning office.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In South Charleston, WV?
Yes, you will typically need a building permit to build a shed in South Charleston, West Virginia, since the city requires permits for most construction projects, including detached accessory structures. To get approved, you generally must submit detailed plans, such as a plot plan and foundation drawings, to the City of South Charleston Building Department, as outlined on the Building Permits and Inspections page.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In St. Albans, WV?
Yes, you’ll likely need a building permit to construct a shed in St. Albans, West Virginia, since the City of St. Albans Building and Zoning Department requires permits for building, modifying, or placing structures to ensure they meet safety and code standards. Permit fees are usually based on the total value of the project, with set rates for construction work.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Teays Valley, WV?
Yes, a permit is usually required to install a shed in Teays Valley, West Virginia, because the area is governed by the Putnam County Office of Planning and Infrastructure, which manages development within zoned districts. Shed permitting is generally based on factors such as the structure’s size, where it will sit on the property, and whether it will include utility connections.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Vienna, WV?
Yes, in Vienna, West Virginia, you will often need a permit for a shed, particularly if it has a permanent foundation, includes electrical or plumbing, or exceeds certain size thresholds. Because structural additions commonly require approval, it is strongly advised to confirm zoning rules and setback requirements with Wood County authorities before starting construction.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Weirton, WV?
Yes, in Weirton, WV, and nearby areas, a permit is usually required for sheds that exceed certain size limits, have a permanent foundation, or include electrical or plumbing work. Local zoning approval is often needed to confirm required setbacks from property lines, so contacting Weirton Building Inspections & Code Enforcement is the best way to confirm current requirements and avoid issues.
Do I Need A Shed Permit In Wheeling, WV?
Yes, you may need a shed permit in Wheeling, WV, depending on the size and features of your shed. According to local building requirements, a permit is required for tool sheds that are 200 square feet or larger or for any shed that includes electrical work. If your shed meets either of these conditions, you will need to obtain a building permit before installation. Contact the Wheeling Building & Planning Department for more information.
Shed Permit Requirements For Counties in West Virginia
To find the shed permit requirements for your county in West Virginia, refer to the table below and locate your county. The table will guide you to the appropriate local or city office responsible for permitting and zoning enforcement. Contacting the listed office will help you confirm current shed permit rules and avoid delays or compliance issues.
Storage Sheds That Comply With Local Regulations
If you are looking for sheds for sale that meet local building and zoning requirements, Sheds Unlimited offers high-quality storage sheds designed with compliance in mind. Our sheds are available in a wide range of sizes and styles and can be customized to match local regulations, including size limits, setbacks, and construction standards. Choosing a shed built to follow local rules helps ensure a smoother permitting process while adding durable, functional storage to your property.
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See what our past customers have to say about us! (You can also check our third-party Google reviews and Facebook reviews.)
My experience from Sheds Unlimited was great. The website is very professional and informative. Working with Ryan to get our shed exactly how we wanted it was a pleasure and painless. Communication from the office
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My experience from Sheds Unlimited was great. The website is very professional and informative. Working with Ryan to get our shed exactly how we wanted it was a pleasure and painless. Communication from the office about build schedule and delivery was spot-on. Upon delivery Nate was great. He was very informative about the shed and meticulous on moving it to its location. Once he set the shed he asked us if we liked the location. We checked it and wanted it 3″ closer to the house. He was very happy to nudge it over and he saw how happy we were with it. It was a great experience from a great company. This is the only company to purchase a shed from. In the near future we are looking to have a garage installed and it will be from Sheds Unlimited. Thank You!!!
JNB
Sweetwater NJ
February 5, 2026
Our Sheds Unlimited experience began on their informative website. We used their on-line design tool to create our shed, and the project flowed smoothly from design to delivery. Our site is very steep, and I
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Our Sheds Unlimited experience began on their informative website. We used their on-line design tool to create our shed, and the project flowed smoothly from design to delivery. Our site is very steep, and I truly doubted they would be able to deliver our 12’ X 14’ shed. They committed to delivery after reviewing pictures of our narrow street and steep hillside yard. Nate is a master equipment operator. He had our shed sitting perfectly level on our pad about 30 minutes after arrival. I was amazed by what he could with their specialized equipment. Fantastic work Sheds Unlimited!!
Matt
Duncannon, PA
August 12, 2024
What can I say about Sheds Unlimited that hasn’t been said? The process to design what I wanted could not have been easier, the delivery was spot on time and the installation crew (Gideon, Joshua
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What can I say about Sheds Unlimited that hasn’t been said? The process to design what I wanted could not have been easier, the delivery was spot on time and the installation crew (Gideon, Joshua and Leroy) was awesome! I could not say enough good things about Sheds Unlimited, I highly recommend them!
Jonathan Golding
Howell, NJ
September 12, 2023
I started this process of building a garage 2-3 years ago. I called local builders. Two of them never returned my calls, and one guy chewed me out for finding his number on the web
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I started this process of building a garage 2-3 years ago. I called local builders. Two of them never returned my calls, and one guy chewed me out for finding his number on the web and calling him without being referred by someone. I’m not kidding, this is how the building contractor experience is right now in New England. My web searches always turned up Sheds Unlimited and I saw that they had stories from folks in New England who had used them to build garages even though they are in Pennsylvania. I decided to go through the quote process. There was a similar shed & garage company closer to my home in New England so I got quotes from both of them for similar garages. The New England company quoted me a number that was 2 1/2 times higher than Sheds Unlimited quote. I decided to go with Sheds Unlimited. I worked with Sergey in sales over many emails on exactly what I wanted. There was never a moment when he seemed bothered or impatient by my questions and my changes. Everything was possible and everything had a clear dollar amount, the sale never felt rushed. I finally decided on a design and paid the deposit. The local permit process went smoothly with the plans I purchased from Sheds Unlimited. The process of getting a foundation and pad from a local contractor was probably the most difficult part of the process. Contractors that do concrete work, are used to working with builders, not private homeowners. But I found a guy and gave him the plan and I eventually got a nice pad and foundation. I told Michael from Sheds Unlimited the pad was ready and I expected to wait 10+ weeks since it was now summertime. I got the call only 5 weeks later from Gideon the project manager that they were ready. On the scheduled day Nathan and his crew of 3 young, hard working Amish carpenters arrived and discovered that my driveway was the worst-case scenario. They could not get their very long and heavy trailer up our driveway due to the tightness of the turn and narrowness of the driveway. So they had to unload everything from the trailer at the road to my build site which is about 900 feet from the public road. They dealt with local vehicle traffic, and unhelpful local police. The young crew had to run back and forth the 900 feet to walk alongside the forklift to make sure the preconstructed structural members did not swing into trees. Not once did they show any frustration or anger. Nathan was still positive and smiling when I talked with him about it later. So after all this arrival difficulty, when they finally starting constructing the garage, it went up incredibly fast. Every worker knew their part. There was no question about what they should be doing. They practically got the whole 2-story 2 car garage up in one day even after the delay from the driveway issues. They only stopped for the day when torrential rain finally started. They showed up at 5:30 AM the next day and finished the job. I can’t say enough great things about what I witnessed with this construction crew. Like I said, I have never seen anything like them in 26 years of hiring various contractors for home projects.
If you are considering a garage or shed, don’t even think twice. Contact Sheds Unlimited today. I guarantee you have never worked with any company as satisfying as them.
If you are considering a garage or shed, don’t even think twice. Contact Sheds Unlimited today. I guarantee you have never worked with any company as satisfying as them.
Eric C.
Eliot, ME
August 15, 2023