Bolthole Index

Preston County, West Virginia

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Preston County, West Virginia

80Index Score / 100
#1 of 55 in West Virginia

Unincorporated Preston County, West Virginia does not generally require a county building permit and has no county zoning12. Inside an incorporated town, building permits and any zoning approval go through that town's city hall instead3. Septic permits and water-well permits are separate and come from the Preston County Health Department, town or not45.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required generally in unincorporated Preston County; incorporated towns issue their own building permits16
Zoning
No county zoning districts; incorporated towns handle their own zoning approval78
Septic permits
Preston County Health Department; required before any building permit an incorporated town issues49
Water well permits
Required from the local health department before drilling; use a licensed well driller105
RV / tiny home living
No county zoning restriction in unincorporated areas; septic, floodplain, deed and municipal rules are separate1112
Owner-builder
Work you personally perform on property you own or lease is exempt from WV contractor licensing, but separate permits and rules still apply13
Minimum home size
No county zoning-based minimum in unincorporated areas; septic, floodplain and other rules may still constrain a project14
Minimum lot size
No county zoning-based minimum in unincorporated areas; subdivision, septic and floodplain rules are separate15

Who to call

Also useful

Preston County Commission

General county government contact; issues the zoning letter the county provides for state licensing and is the office to ask about floodplain, subdivision and any other county land-use question not covered by another office

304-329-1805

106 W Main Street, Suite 202, Kingwood, WV 26537

Septic permits

Preston County Health Department - Environmental Services (Sewage and Water)

Individual sewage system (septic) permits and inspections, and individual water well permits, for Preston County

(304)329-0096

106 West Main Street #203, Kingwood, West Virginia 26537

Roads & driveways

Preston County (WV Division of Highways county office)

County road repair questions; the County Commission's own FAQ states the county has no control over road repairs and directs callers to this office. New driveways onto state highways still need a separate, free WV Division of Highways encroachment permit

304-329-0192

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Preston County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Preston County, West Virginia?

A general county building permit is not required for a home in unincorporated Preston County1. Preston County has no county zoning, while building permits and zoning approval for construction inside an incorporated area come from that town's city hall3. West Virginia's State Building Code applies only where a county or municipality adopts it rather than automatically statewide16. Buildings used primarily for agriculture are exempt from the State Building Code, State Fire Code and adopted county or municipal building codes, though stricter compatible laws or agency rules may still govern17. Separate approvals still apply: septic installation, water-well work and development in a designated floodplain each require permits181019. We could not confirm a general residential inspection or certificate-of-occupancy process for unincorporated land, so ask the County Commission about those items and the parcel's floodplain status.

Who issues building permits, zoning approval and floodplain permits in Preston County?

Preston County does not publish a dedicated county building or zoning department; the county has no zoning, and a general permit is not required for unincorporated residential construction13. Start with the Preston County Commission for parcel-boundary, county land-use and floodplain-office questions20. The local permit officer reviews proposed work in a designated floodplain, determines the standards that apply and requires copies of other federal or state permits before issuing the floodplain permit; the fee varies2122. Inside an incorporated area, the town's city hall handles building permits and zoning approval, but septic and well permits do not move to the town318. The Preston County Health Department handles local septic application review and site inspections under the statewide public-health program, as well as individual-well permits2395. Road-repair questions go to the WV Division of Highways county office at 304-329-0192, not the County Commission24.

Does Preston County have zoning?

No. Unincorporated Preston County has no county zoning districts; anyone seeking a building permit or zoning approval inside an incorporated area must contact that town's city hall8. Unincorporated land therefore has no county zoning-based setback, lot-coverage or building-height rule252627. Unincorporated land also has no county zoning-based minimum dwelling size or minimum lot size1415. Those answers are limited to zoning: septic design, floodplain standards, subdivision review, deed restrictions and other non-zoning constraints can still determine where and what you may build. We could not confirm an unincorporated subdivision ordinance, so ask the County Commission about a recent or proposed land split. Municipal requirements are separate; Kingwood, for example, has a zoning appeals process, showing why a parcel inside town limits needs a city-hall check28.

How do septic and well permits work in Preston County?

A new or modified septic tank system in Preston County needs a permit before installation, after review of its application, plans and specifications29. Minor repairs outside the drainfield may be exempt, but work within the drainfield generally needs a permit18. West Virginia Public Health Sanitation has primacy over individual on-site sewage systems, while local health departments perform application review and site inspections3023. Do not cover a soil-absorption system or use the system until the director approves the installation in writing; covered work may have to be uncovered31. Only 2% of Preston County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early purchase contingency rather than assuming a standard system will fit32. A water well also needs a local-health-department permit before drilling, alteration or abandonment and must be drilled by a licensed driller5.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Preston County?

Unincorporated Preston County has no county zoning restriction on residential or long-term RV occupancy11. Unincorporated Preston County likewise has no county zoning restriction on tiny-home occupancy12. Those answers are limited to county zoning, not blanket exemptions: septic permitting and inspection still apply to an on-site sewage system, and development in a designated floodplain needs separate approval183319. Private deed restrictions may also bind a parcel. A parcel inside an incorporated town needs a separate city-hall check because municipal rules may apply3. Before relying on an RV or tiny home full-time, confirm the sanitation plan with the Preston County Health Department9.

How do you build a home in Preston County, step by step?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is inside an incorporated town; town building permits and zoning approval come from that city hall, while septic and well permits still come from the Health Department3.
  2. Ask the County Commission whether the building site is in a designated floodplain; floodplain development needs a permit even though unincorporated Preston County has no general residential building permit19120.
  3. Make septic feasibility a purchase contingency and apply through the Preston County Health Department before installation189.
  4. If the home needs a well, apply before a licensed driller begins34.
  5. If the driveway connects to a state highway, get the required WV Division of Highways encroachment permit; the permit is free of charge3536.
  6. If you will personally perform the work on property you own or lease, the owner-builder exemption removes contractor-licensing requirements but does not settle separate permit or code obligations13.

What should you check before buying land in Preston County?

Soils and septic go together here: with only 2% of the county's soils free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, get a site evaluation from the Health Department before you commit to a purchase32. Water is generally plentiful, with about 51.5 inches of precipitation a year and severe drought in only about 1.9% of years, but a private well still needs a permit if there is no public supply37385. Terrain is mixed: 53.3% of the county sits at 15% slope or less, and 78.9% of the land is wooded, so expect real grading and clearing costs on steeper, more forested parcels3940. Ask the County Commission whether the building site is inside a mapped floodplain20. A floodplain permit is documented for the Route 7 waterline-extension portions crossing the 100-year floodplain of Dillan Creek, but that project-specific fact does not establish the rule for another parcel41. If the tract was recently split, ask the Commission whether a subdivision or plat process applies because we could not confirm a Preston County subdivision ordinance. Property taxes have an effective rate near 0.5% and a median bill around $747 a year4243.

Watch-outs

  • A general building permit appears not to be required in unincorporated Preston County, but the County Commission's FAQ expressly confirms only that the county has no zoning; ask the Commission about inspections or occupancy paperwork1320.
  • County zoning does not restrict RV or tiny-home occupancy on unincorporated land, but septic, floodplain, deed and municipal rules remain separate1112.
  • Development in a designated floodplain needs a permit, but Preston County's public page does not name the administering officer; ask the County Commission where to submit before you build1920.

Sources

  1. Preston County Commission FAQ (2026 county census)
  2. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  3. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  4. Preston County Health Department - Sewage and Water (2026 county census)
  5. Individual Water Supplies, quoted and re-checked
  6. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  7. prestoncountywv.gov (2026 county census)
  8. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  9. Preston County Health Department - Environmental Services (Sewage and Water) (prestoncountyhealthdepartment.com)
  10. 64 CSR 19 Water Well Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  11. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  12. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  13. West Virginia Contractor Licensing Act, quoted and re-checked
  14. FAQs - Preston County, WV, quoted and re-checked
  15. FAQs - Preston County, WV, quoted and re-checked
  16. West Virginia Code §15A-11-5, Promulgation of rules and statewide building code (West Virginia statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. West Virginia Code §15A-11-5, quoted and re-checked
  18. Inspection of a Standard Septic Tank System Installation, quoted and re-checked
  19. Floodplain Information, quoted and re-checked
  20. Preston County Commission (prestoncountywv.gov)
  21. Floodplain Information, quoted and re-checked
  22. Floodplain Permits, quoted and re-checked
  23. Sewage Program: Division of Responsibility, quoted and re-checked
  24. Preston County (WV Division of Highways county office) (prestoncountywv.gov)
  25. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  26. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  27. prestoncountywv.gov, quoted and re-checked
  28. kingwoodwv.org, quoted and re-checked
  29. WW-6 Inspection of a Standard Septic Tank System Installation, quoted and re-checked
  30. WW-8 Sewage Program: Division of Responsibility, quoted and re-checked
  31. WW-6 Inspection of a Standard Septic Tank System Installation, quoted and re-checked
  32. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  33. Inspection of a Standard Septic Tank System Installation, quoted and re-checked
  34. Individual Water Supplies, quoted and re-checked
  35. Encroachment Permits, quoted and re-checked
  36. Encroachment Permits, quoted and re-checked
  37. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  38. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  39. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  40. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  41. cdxapps.epa.gov, quoted and re-checked
  42. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Preston County requires no county building permit for a home.

RulePreston CountyMonongalia CountyTaylor CountyTucker CountyBarbour CountyMarion CountyGrant County
Building permitNot requiredLimitedLimitedRequiredLimitedNot requiredLimited
County zoningNoNoNot publishedYesNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.Grafton-Taylor County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County WV Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Preston County in West Virginia

80
County map
Preston County highlighted among the West Virginia counties · colored by Index score

How Preston County scores

Seclusion77100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency66100% ev.
Admin Boringness88100% ev.
Durability88100% ev.
Property Autonomy26100% ev.
Carry Cost89100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$148kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$3,218Land / acre
51.5"Annual rain
1.9% of yrsSevere drought
0.6 / yr (+0.6)Mid-century 100°F days
9.1 daysMid-century dry spell
1.52" (+5.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.7×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,132Home insurance / yr
-0.8% / yrInsurance growth
0.42%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
6,573People within 30 min
1,202,092People within 2 hr
42,241Radius comparison (15 mi)
52.6People / sq mi
1.8%Federal land
53.3%Land at 15% slope or less
2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
8,321 acWorkable land screen
78.9%Wooded land
68.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
49.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Preston County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Town of Albright · Town of Brandonville · Town of Bruceton Mills · Kingwood · Town of Masontown · Town of Newburg · Town of Reedsville · Town of Rowlesburg · Town of Terra Alta · Town of Tunnelton

Answers from the rulebook for Preston County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Preston County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County zoning in Preston County, including unincorporated areas.

    • The county FAQ directs persons building inside an incorporated area to contact that city hall; municipal rules may therefore apply within incorporated areas.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — County zoning and planning regulations in Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Preston County, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.

    • The county states that it has no zoning.
    • For construction inside an incorporated area, the county directs applicants to contact that city hall; municipal rules therefore must be checked separately.
    “The Board of Zoning Appeals determines if a conditional or non-conforming use of property shall be permitted if application for a variance has been received from owner/s of said property.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — County zoning in Preston County unincorporated areas.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Zoning districtsNot published

    County zoning districts and county zoning regulations in Preston County; incorporated municipalities are outside this countywide conclusion.

    • If building inside an incorporated area, contact that city hall because municipal requirements may apply.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not published — County zoning districts in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    • Not published — County zoning districts and zoning regulations in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    • Not published — County zoning districts in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    • Not published — County zoning districts in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    County zoning or planning regulation imposing a minimum residential dwelling size in unincorporated Preston County.

    • The absence is limited to county zoning/planning regulation.
    • If building inside an incorporated area, the county directs the applicant to contact that city hall.
    • State building, health, septic, floodplain, subdivision, and other non-zoning requirements are not negated by this claim.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • None — Minimum dwelling size requirements arising from Preston County zoning or planning regulations in unincorporated areas.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Minimum lot sizeNone

    County zoning or planning regulation imposing a minimum residential lot or parcel size in unincorporated Preston County.

    • The absence is limited to county zoning/planning regulation.
    • This claim does not establish that state health/septic, subdivision, floodplain, or other non-zoning rules impose no site, disposal-area, setback, acreage, or frontage requirements.
    • If building inside an incorporated area, the county directs the applicant to contact that city hall.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • None — Minimum lot size requirements arising from Preston County zoning or planning regulations in unincorporated areas.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • SetbacksNone

    Setback requirements arising from Preston County zoning or planning regulations in unincorporated areas.

    • The county FAQ states that incorporated-area construction must be addressed with the relevant city hall; municipal rules may apply inside incorporated areas.
    • This claim does not address subdivision, building-code, septic, floodplain, or other non-zoning requirements.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • None — County zoning-based setback requirements in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Lot coverageNone

    Lot-coverage requirements arising from Preston County zoning or planning regulations in unincorporated areas.

    • The county FAQ states that incorporated-area construction must be addressed with the relevant city hall; municipal rules may apply inside incorporated areas.
    • This claim does not address subdivision, building-code, septic, floodplain, or other non-zoning requirements.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • None — County zoning-based lot-coverage requirements in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Building heightNone

    Building-height requirements arising from Preston County zoning or planning regulations in unincorporated areas.

    • The county FAQ states that incorporated-area construction must be addressed with the relevant city hall; municipal rules may apply inside incorporated areas.
    • This claim does not address state or municipal building codes, subdivision, septic, floodplain, or other non-zoning requirements.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • None — County zoning-based building-height requirements in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Living in an RVUnrestricted

    County zoning or planning restrictions on recreational-vehicle occupancy in unincorporated Preston County.

    • The Preston County FAQ directs persons building inside an incorporated area to contact that city hall; municipal rules may therefore apply there.
    • This absence finding is limited to county land-use regulation and does not address other applicable state, health, septic, floodplain, or municipal requirements.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Unrestricted — County land-use regulation of residential or long-term RV occupancy in unincorporated Preston County; this does not determine compliance with non-zoning rules.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    • Unrestricted — County land-use regulation of recreational-vehicle occupancy on private land in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Preston County: no county rule sets this, because Preston County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county states that incorporated-area construction requires contacting the relevant city hall.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Tiny homesUnrestricted

    County zoning or planning restrictions on tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated Preston County.

    • The Preston County FAQ directs persons building inside an incorporated area to contact that city hall; municipal rules may therefore apply there.
    • This absence finding is limited to county land-use regulation and does not address other applicable state, health, septic, floodplain, or municipal requirements.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Unrestricted — County land-use regulation of tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated Preston County; this does not determine compliance with building, septic, health, floodplain, or safety rules.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
    • Unrestricted — County land-use regulation of tiny-home occupancy on private land in unincorporated Preston County.
      “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Preston County: no county rule sets this, because Preston County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county states that incorporated-area construction requires contacting the relevant city hall.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Preston County: no county rule sets this, because Preston County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county states that incorporated-area construction requires contacting the relevant city hall.
    “No, the county has no zoning. If you are building inside an incorporated area you need to contact that city hall.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in designated floodplain areas of Preston County, including new development and activities treated as development under applicable floodplain regulations.

    • A floodplain permit is required for development in the designated floodplain; the county or community determines whether the project is within the designated floodplain and which standards apply.
    • The definition of development includes dredging, filling, grading, and excavation.
    • In Approximate A zones, written assurance that the flood-carrying capacity of the stream will be maintained is required; except for extremely small projects, this generally requires a pre- and post-development engineering study demonstrating that the project will not cause an unacceptable rise of 1 foot or greater.
    • In AE zones with base flood elevations but without a designated floodway, development may not create more than a 1-foot cumulative rise in flood elevations, and the permit officer may require an engineering study.
    • In AE zones with base flood elevations and floodways, hydrologic and hydraulic analysis is required to demonstrate zero rise in the base flood elevation.
    • Before issuing a permit, the county or community permit officer requires copies of all other permits required by federal or state law.
    • Permit cost varies.
    • Incorporated municipalities may administer their own floodplain permitting through a town or city permit officer; the applicable local jurisdiction and standards must be confirmed.

    maximum cumulative rise in AE zone without designated floodway: <= 1 ft · maximum base-flood-elevation rise in AE floodway: 0 ft · permit cost: varies

    “The ordinance includes a flood map that designates floodplain areas, and establishes a permitting system to regulate new development in the floodplain.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New development in designated floodplain areas of Preston County.
      “The ordinance includes a flood map that designates floodplain areas, and establishes a permitting system to regulate new development in the floodplain.”
    • Required — The Route 7 waterline-extension project portions that cross the 100-year floodplain of Dillan Creek in Preston County.
      “The project is located near a riverine/freshwater pond and portions of the project will cross a 100-year floodplain of Dillan Creek; a floodplain development permit through Preston County will be required prior to construction.”
    • Required — Development in mapped floodplain areas of Preston County, including dredging, filling, grading, excavation, and certain bridge, culvert, and stream-crossing work.
      “a county or community permit is required.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Floodplain development permits in Preston County.

    • The applicant must consult the local county, town, or city floodplain permit officer regarding whether a permit is required and the amount of the fee.
    • Permit costs vary.
    • Before issuing a permit, the county or community permit officer will require copies of all other permits required by federal or state law.

    permit cost: varies

    “Review Process: Before altering or relocating a watercourse in the floodplain, consult with the local county, town or city floodplain permit officer about whether a permit is required, and the amount of fee. [...] Permit Cost: Varies”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Floodplain development permitting administered by the local floodplain permit officer in Preston County.

    • The county or community determines whether the project is within the designated floodplain and which standards apply to that floodplain area.
    • Approximate A zones require written assurance that flood-carrying capacity will be maintained; most projects generally require pre- and post-development engineering studies showing no unacceptable rise of 1 foot or greater.
    • AE zones with base flood elevations but no designated floodway may not create more than a 1-foot cumulative rise, and the permit officer may require an engineering study.
    • AE zones with base flood elevations and floodways require hydrologic and hydraulic analysis demonstrating zero rise.
    • Copies of all other permits required by federal or state law are required before issuance.

    maximum cumulative rise in AE zone without designated floodway: <= 1 foot · allowable rise in AE zone with designated floodway: 0 foot

    “Before issuing a permit, the county or community permit officer will require copies”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Development within designated floodplain areas of Preston County.
      “In reviewing permit applications, the county or community will determine if the proposed project is within the designated floodplain”

West Virginia rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Building permits for construction, repair, or alteration in West Virginia; permit requirements depend on the applicable local jurisdiction and whether that jurisdiction has adopted and enforces a building code or otherwise regulates the work by state law or municipal ordinance.

    • West Virginia does not have statewide building code requirements.
    • A community that adopts and enforces a building code must use the State Building Code.
    • Municipal governing bodies have authority to require a permit as a condition precedent to erection, construction, repair, or alteration of structures or equipment regulated by state law or municipal ordinance.
    • A municipality may not require such permits of the state, a county, or another governmental entity, or their contractors, agents, or employees, for structures or equipment designated for governmental use.
    • The cited statewide sources do not establish that every construction project in every jurisdiction requires a building permit.
    “While West Virginia does not have statewide building code requirements, the adoption and implementation of building codes is strongly encouraged.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable

    A property owner or occupant personally performing construction work on a structure, for purposes of exemption from West Virginia contractor licensure.

    • The exemption concerns contractor licensure and does not itself waive any applicable building permit, State Building Code, State Fire Code, inspection, or certificate-of-occupancy requirement.
    • The statute separately exempts work personally performed by an owner or lessee on property whose primary use is agricultural or farming enterprise.
    • If the owner hires another person to perform the work for compensation, the hired person may be subject to contractor licensure requirements and building-permit prerequisites.
    “Except as otherwise provided in this code, the following are exempt from licensure: [...] Work personally performed on a structure by the owner or occupant thereof;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available — A person personally performing construction work on real property the person owns or leases, including residential property in Preston County, for purposes of West Virginia contractor-licensing requirements.
      “(2) A person who personally performs construction work on the site of real property which the person owns or leases whether for commercial or residential purposes;”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    West Virginia's State Building Code framework and its application in counties and municipalities that adopt the code.

    • The State Building Code has force and effect in counties and municipalities adopting it; it is not automatically applicable statewide solely by state promulgation.
    • A county or municipality may adopt the code only prospectively, not retroactively.
    • Buildings or structures utilized primarily for agricultural purposes are exempt from the State Building Code, the State Fire Code, and any adopted county or municipal building code or ordinance such as the ICC International Property Maintenance Code.
    • If another state law, county or municipal ordinance, or agency regulation imposes a more stringent or higher standard and is not inconsistent with West Virginia law or contrary to recognized standards and good engineering practices, that provision governs.
    • Enforcement is the responsibility of the respective local jurisdiction.
    • The active State Building Code rule is West Virginia Code of State Rules 87-04, effective August 1, 2022.

    effective date: 2022-08-01

    “The rules shall be in accordance with standard safe practices so embodied in widely recognized standards of good practice for building construction and all aspects related thereto and have force and effect in those counties and municipalities adopting the State Building Code: Provided, That each county or municipality may adopt the code to the extent that it is only prospective and not retroactive in its application; Provided, however, That buildings or structures utilized primarily for agricultural purposes shall be exempt from the provisions of the State Building Code, the State Fire Code, and any county or municipal building code or ordinance that is or may be adopted, such as the ICC International Property Maintenance Code.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Fire and life-safety inspections by the West Virginia State Fire Marshal for occupancies subject to the State Fire Code.

    • The State Fire Marshal inspection mandate excludes one- and two-family dwellings.
    • The State Fire Marshal may enter dwelling houses during construction and before occupancy to determine compliance with conditions of permits or licenses issued by the State Fire Marshal.
    • State Fire Code exemptions include buildings used wholly as dwelling houses for no more than two families and buildings used primarily for agricultural purposes, subject to the stated farm-structure exceptions for group sleeping, health care, or detention/correctional occupancy.
    “The State Fire Marshal shall inspect all structures and facilities, other than one- and two-family dwelling houses, subject to the State Fire Code and this article, including, but not limited to, state, county, and municipally owned institutions, all public and private schools, health care facilities, theaters, churches, and other places of public assembly to determine whether the structures or facilities are in compliance with the State Fire Code.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    A new building, an existing Industrial or Storage occupancy, or an existing building in which 50% or more of the space has been renovated or reconstructed, when covered by the West Virginia State Fire Code.

    • The certificate of occupancy must be obtained before the building is occupied or used for its intended purpose.
    • The certificate may involve the State Fire Marshal’s Office and is not limited to issuance by that office alone.
    • The State Fire Code does not apply to buildings used wholly as dwelling houses for no more than two families or buildings used primarily for agricultural purposes, except farm structures used for group sleeping accommodations for farm workers or for health care or detention/correctional occupancy.
    • Where applicable, projects must be designed by a licensed architect or professional engineer and obtain review approval from the Authority Having Jurisdiction before construction or the covered renovation/reconstruction.
    • After January 1, 2025, owners or occupants applying for a final inspection or certificate of occupancy must submit plan-review documents electronically.

    renovated or reconstructed space threshold: >= 50 percent (Existing building; the rule also covers every new building and existing Industrial and Storage occupancies.) · plan review completion period: <= 45 days (The Authority Having Jurisdiction must notify deficiencies; the owner or occupant has 10 days to submit additional documentation, and the AHJ has 10 days to complete review once requirements are met.) · electronic filing requirement effective date: 2025-01-01 (Applies to documents submitted for final inspection or certificate of occupancy.)

    “The owner or occupant of a new building, existing Industrial and Storage occupancies, or an existing building that has had 50% or more of the space renovated or reconstructed, shall obtain a certificate of occupancy including but not be limited to the State Fire Marshal’s Office alone, before the building is occupied or used for its intended purpose.”
  • Who permits septicState

    Installation or establishment of sewage or excreta-disposal systems, including individual sewage systems, in Preston County and statewide West Virginia.

    • West Virginia Code assigns the written-permit requirement to the commissioner or the commissioner's authorized representative.
    • The active state rule is administered under the Health agency's Sewage Systems rule, Series 64-09.
    • The cited statute excludes commercial or industrial wastes subject to West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection regulatory control.
    “without first obtaining a written permit to install or establish the system or method from the commissioner or his or her authorized representative.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State — Individual or dual on-site sewage disposal systems in Preston County, including subsurface systems, gray-water systems, privies, holding tanks, and specified alternative systems.
      “The Public Health Sanitation Division shall have primacy in all matters relating to: 1. Individual or dual on-site sewage disposal systems utilizing subsurface absorption, gray water systems, privies, and sewage holding tanks.”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Individual and dual on-site sewage disposal systems in Preston County, including systems using subsurface absorption, gray water systems, privies, sewage holding tanks, and specified alternative systems.
      “Consequently, the Local Health Department is required to make decisions and act upon the information contained in whichever application is received first. [...] Review of an individual sewage system permit application must be accomplished within 21 business days after receipt”
    • State — Sewage-system permitting and inspection rules applicable in Preston County, including individual onsite systems.
      “No person, firm, company, corporation, institution or association, whether public or private, county or municipal, may install or establish any system or method of drainage, water supply, or sewage or excreta disposal without first obtaining a written permit to install or establish the system or method from the commissioner or his or her authorized representative.”
    • State — Individual or dual onsite sewage disposal systems using subsurface absorption, including conventional septic systems, statewide in West Virginia
      “The Public Health Sanitation Division shall have primacy in all matters relating to: 1. Individual or dual on-site sewage disposal systems utilizing subsurface absorption, gray water systems, privies, and sewage holding tanks.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation or establishment of a sewage or excreta-disposal system statewide, including new septic systems and modifications to existing septic systems

    • A written permit must be obtained before installation or establishment.
    • Systems must be installed according to plans, specifications, and instructions issued by or approved in writing by the commissioner or authorized representative.
    • For new septic systems and modifications, permits require review and approval of the proper application, plans, and specifications.
    • Minor repairs may be performed without a permit in limited circumstances, including removal of tree roots from solid-wall pipe or repair of a collapsed pipe outside the drainfield; work within the drainfield area will generally require a permit.
    • Commercial or industrial wastes subject to West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection regulatory control are excluded from the scope of §16-1-9.
    “New septic tank systems and modifications to existing septic tank systems must be permitted prior to installation, pursuant to Sections 4.1 and 4.3 of the WV Legislative Rule 64 CSR 9, Sewer Systems, Sewage Treatment Systems, and Sewage Tank Cleaners (hereinafter referred to as the Sewer Systems Rule).”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New septic tank systems and modifications to existing septic tank systems in Preston County.
      “New septic tank systems and modifications to existing septic tank systems must be permitted prior to installation, pursuant to Sections 4.1 and 4.3 of the WV Legislative Rule 64 CSR 9, Sewer Systems, Sewage Treatment Systems, and Sewage Tank Cleaners”
    • Required — New standard septic tank systems and modifications to existing septic tank systems in Preston County.
      “New septic tank systems and modifications to existing septic tank systems must be permitted prior to installation, pursuant to Sections 4.1 and 4.3 of the WV Legislative Rule 64 CSR 9, Sewer Systems, Sewage Treatment Systems, and Sewage Tank Cleaners”
    • Required — Installation or establishment of an individual or other sewage/excreta disposal system in Preston County.
      “No person, firm, company, corporation, institution or association, whether public or private, county or municipal, may install or establish any system or method of drainage, water supply, or sewage or excreta disposal without first obtaining a written permit to install or establish the system or method from the commissioner or his or her authorized representative.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation of a standard septic tank system or modification of an existing septic tank system in Preston County, after installation and before the system is covered.

    • No sewer system may be used or placed into operation until installation has been approved in writing by the director.
    • No soil-absorption portion may be covered until approved in writing by the director.
    • Any part covered before approval may be ordered uncovered.
    • The director may make as many inspections as necessary during construction, installation, modification, or operation to determine compliance.
    • The state procedure identifies proper final inspection as necessary to verify the approved permitted area, separation from water wells, construction according to design, approved materials, and protection against public-health hazards.
    “No sewer system shall be used or placed into operation until the system installation has been approved in writing by the director. [...] No part of any sewer system utilizing soil absorption disposal of effluent shall be covered until the system has been approved in writing by the director.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation and modification of septic tank systems in Preston County.
      “No part of any sewer system utilizing soil absorption disposal of effluent shall be covered until the system has been approved in writing by the director. Any part of the system that is covered prior to approval shall be uncovered upon oral or written order of the director.”
    • Required — Installation of new septic tank systems and modifications to existing septic tank systems statewide in West Virginia
      “Proper final inspection of a septic tank system is necessary in order to assure the following:”
  • Well permitRequired

    Drilling, construction, alteration, or abandonment of water wells in Preston County.

    • The permit is obtained jointly by the water-well contractor and property owner.
    • Application must be made at least 15 calendar days before the actual drilling, construction, alteration, or abandonment unless emergency conditions apply.
    • Emergency permits have separate notice, application, and completion-report deadlines.
    • Repair, redevelopment, cleaning, or screen replacement that does not deepen the well, and acidizing, may be conducted by a certified well driller without an individual permit issued by the Commissioner.
    • The permit is generally valid for one year from issuance unless extended upon written request.
    • The rule is effective July 1, 2026 and terminates August 1, 2028.

    advance application deadline: >= 15 calendar days (unless emergency conditions prevail) · permit validity: 1 year (unless extended upon written request)

    “No person shall drill, construct, alter, or abandon a water well unless the Commissioner, pursuant to this rule, has issued a valid permit, except where the emergency procedures set forth in subsection 4.3 of this rule apply.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Drilling, modifying, or abandoning an individual water well serving a property in Preston County.
      “No person shall drill, construct, alter, or abandon a water well unless the Commissioner, pursuant to this rule, has issued a valid permit, except where the emergency procedures set forth in subsection 4.3 of this rule apply.”
    • Required — Drilling, modifying, or abandoning an individual drinking-water well in Preston County.
      “Residents of West Virginia who want to have a well drilled, or who wish to modify or abandon an existing well, must apply and obtain a permit from their Local Health Department prior to drilling, modifying, or abandoning the well.”
    • Required — Construction, modification, or abandonment of an individual water well in Preston County.
      “Residents of West Virginia who want to have a well drilled, or who wish to modify or abandon an existing well, must apply and obtain a permit from their Local Health Department prior to drilling, modifying, or abandoning the well.”
    • Required — Drilling, modifying, or abandoning an individual water well in West Virginia.
      “Residents of West Virginia who want to have a well drilled, or who wish to modify or abandon an existing well, must apply and obtain a permit from their local health department prior to drilling, modifying, or abandoning the well.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    A business or residence building on a lot or parcel in Preston County abutting a street, alley, public way, or easement where a municipal sewer is located or later constructed.

    • The municipality or board of health may require and compel connection.
    • Notice must be given to the owner and lessee or occupant.
    • Connection is required within thirty days after notice is sent.
    • The statute applies regardless of whether the lot or parcel is within municipal geographical limits.
    • The statute addresses municipal sewer availability; it does not establish a general mandatory public-water connection rule.

    connection deadline after notice: 30 days

    “Notice so to connect shall be given by the municipality or by the board of health to the owner and to the lessee or occupant of such building. The owner or owners shall connect to the municipal sewer within thirty days after notice to connect has been sent by the municipality.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural operations and farm or agricultural uses subject to municipal requirements, nuisance actions, or zoning-related limitations under West Virginia law.

    • The agricultural operation must be in material compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and permits.
    • A reasonable expansion is protected only if it does not create a substantially adverse effect upon the environment or a hazard to public health and safety.
    • The municipal-requirement protection applies to an agricultural operation situated outside municipal corporate boundaries on the effective date of the chapter; if subsequently annexed or otherwise brought within municipal boundaries, the municipality’s requirements do not apply to the agricultural operation.
    • The nuisance protections do not apply when the nuisance results from negligent operation or when the operation violates an applicable federal, state, or local statute or governmental requirement.
    • Outside municipalities or urban areas, the zoning chapter does not authorize regulations preventing or limiting the complete use of natural resources or a tract or contiguous tracts of land of any size for a farm or agricultural operation.
    • The protection described is against specified nuisance actions and municipal or zoning restrictions; it does not eliminate other applicable environmental, health, safety, permitting, or land-use requirements.
    “A requirement of a municipality does not apply to an agricultural operation situated outside of the municipality’s corporate boundaries on the effective date of this chapter.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Buildings or structures utilized primarily for agricultural purposes in West Virginia, including unincorporated Preston County.
      “Provided, however, That buildings or structures utilized primarily for agricultural purposes shall be exempt from the provisions of the State Building Code, the State Fire Code, and any county or municipal building code or ordinance that is or may be adopted, such as the ICC International Property Maintenance Code.”
    • Available — Agricultural lands or operations are exempt from county ordinances adopted under West Virginia Code §7-1-3ff regulating unsafe or unsanitary dwellings and other buildings.
      “Plenary power and authority are hereby conferred upon every county commission to adopt ordinances regulating the repair, alteration, or improvement, or the vacating and closing or removal or demolition, or any combination thereof, of any dwellings or other buildings, except for buildings or dwellings on agricultural lands or operations as defined in §19-19-2 of this code, unfit for human habitation due to dilapidation, defects increasing the hazard of fire, accidents, or other calamities, lack of ventilation, light or sanitary facilities, or any other conditions prevailing in any dwelling or building, whether used for human habitation or not, which would cause the dwellings or other buildings to be unsafe, unsanitary, dangerous, or detrimental to the public safety or welfare, whether the result of natural or manmade force or effect.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Buildings or structures utilized primarily for agricultural purposes under West Virginia’s State Building Code framework.
      “shall be exempt from the provisions of the State Building Code, the State Fire Code, and any county or municipal building code or ordinance”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and land development subject to a local subdivision and land-development ordinance adopted under West Virginia law.

    • The local ordinance must include minor and major subdivision processes, planning-commission approval authority, review, approval, recording, fees, waivers, and improvement-location permits.
    • The statute allows exemptions for certain land development, including single-family residential structures and farm structures.
    • The cited statute does not itself provide one uniform statewide subdivision approval process for every parcel; local governing bodies and planning commissions administer the ordinance.

    planning-commission approval: Required before development commences when a subdivision and land-development ordinance applies. (Applicable local exemptions and ordinance provisions may apply.) · plat recording: Required before construction commences after approval. (The plat is recorded in the clerk's office of the county commission where a majority of the land lies.) · fees: A schedule of fees proportioned to the cost of checking and verifying proposed plats.

    “plans and plats must be approved by the applicable planning commission”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New driveways or approaches connecting to West Virginia state highways, including such connections in Preston County.

    • The permit is available free of charge from any Division of Highways office.
    • Permits are granted only for legitimate access to private property and when location, design, and construction comply with Division of Highways specifications.
    • Driveways must not be located in sharp curves, on steep grades, within intersections, or where they interfere with signs, signals, or drainage.
    • Unauthorized installation can result in a fine or removal by Highways employees.
    • Applicants should check with the District Office before building.

    permit fee: 0 USD (Available free of charge from any Division of Highways office)

    “Available free of charge from any Division office, permits are required by state law”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New driveways or approaches connecting property to West Virginia state highways in Preston County.
      “A reminder from the Division of Highways to property owners building new driveways — don’t forget your permit. Available free of charge from any Division office, permits are required by state law in order to assure that there is no uncontrolled access to state highways that would reduce the road’s safety or interfere with efficient movement of traffic. Unauthorized driveway installation can result in a fine or removal by Highways employees.”
    • Required — New driveways or approaches accessing a state highway in West Virginia, including Preston County.
      “Permits are granted when the driveway or approach is for the legitimate purpose of gaining access to private property and when its location, design and construction is in accordance with DOH specifications.”
    • Required — New driveways or approaches connecting property in Preston County to a state highway right-of-way.
      “A reminder from the Division of Highways to property owners building new driveways — don’t forget your permit. Available free of charge from any Division office, permits are required by state law in order to assure that there is no uncontrolled access to state highways that would reduce the road’s safety or interfere with efficient movement of traffic. Unauthorized driveway installation can result in a fine or removal by Highways employees. Permits are granted when the driveway or approach is for the legitimate purpose of gaining access to private property and when its location, design and construction is in accordance with DOH specifications.”
    • Required — New driveways or approaches connecting private property to West Virginia state highways or located within state highway rights-of-way.
      “A reminder from the Division of Highways to property owners building new driveways — don’t forget your permit. Available free of charge from any Division office, permits are required by state law in order to assure that there is no uncontrolled access to state highways that would reduce the road’s safety or interfere with efficient movement of traffic.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    West Virginia counties adopting zoning for all or part of their jurisdiction, including unincorporated areas.

    • The county governing body must work with the planning commission and the public to develop the zoning ordinance.
    • The ordinance may cover the county's entire jurisdiction or only parts of it.
    • The statute also authorizes municipalities to regulate land use within their own jurisdictions; municipal zoning is not county zoning.
    • No effective date or fee is stated in the cited provision.
    “(3) Enacting a zoning ordinance. (b) A zoning ordinance may cover a county's entire jurisdiction or parts of its jurisdiction.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    West Virginia county commissions adopting and enforcing building and housing codes for residential construction in unincorporated portions of the county.

    • The county commission must act by order duly entered of record.
    • Codes may establish and regulate minimum building and housing standards for improving health, safety, and well-being.
    • Codes may apply to the entire county or any portion or portions constituting an effective area; the county need not adopt the code for other portions.
    • The code does not apply within a municipal corporation that has adopted and has in effect a housing and building code unless and until the municipality provides otherwise by ordinance.
    • Structures on parcels used primarily for agricultural purposes are excluded.
    • Any county property-maintenance code or ordinance must exempt property used for agricultural purposes and is unenforceable as to agricultural property.
    • Existing county building codes became void one year after promulgation of a state building code by the State Fire Commission; after that voidance, a county adopting a building code must adopt the state building code.
    • A county may adopt the state building code after promulgation, but it does not apply within a municipal corporation that has not adopted it.
    “county commissions are hereby authorized and empowered, by order duly entered of record, to adopt building and housing codes”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Off-grid sanitation — Off-grid sanitation systems, including private onsite systems, privies, composting toilets, and similar systems in Preston County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in unincorporated Preston County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Preston County, West Virginia

Is Preston County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Preston County scores 80/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a durable current and mid-century hazard profile. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

Do you need a building permit in Preston County, West Virginia?

Preston County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Preston County Health Department (under WV DHHR rules). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Preston County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Preston County is allowed: County zoning or planning restrictions on recreational-vehicle occupancy in unincorporated Preston County. The Preston County FAQ directs persons building inside an incorporated area to contact that city hall; municipal rules may therefore apply there. This absence finding is limited to county land-use regulation and does not address other applicable state, health, septic, floodplain, or municipal requirements. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Preston County, West Virginia?

Land in Preston County runs about $3,218 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Preston County?

Preston County gets about 51.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.9% of years.

How remote is Preston County?

A representative private-land location has about 6,573 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,202,092 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Preston compares in West Virginia

Compare side-by-side →See all 55 West Virginia counties ranked →