West Virginia Contractors License Practice Exam

Does a detached 400 square foot storage shed require a permit?

1. TRUE

2. FALSE

3. Only if it has electricity

4. Only if it's on a concrete base

The correct answer is: FALSE

In West Virginia, building permit requirements can vary based on local regulations and the scope of the project. A detached storage shed that is 400 square feet and does not have any electricity or plumbing typically falls below the threshold for requiring a permit. Many jurisdictions allow for unpermitted construction of small structures, such as storage sheds, given their limited size and intended use. While certain conditions, like adding electrical components or situating the shed on a permanent foundation, may change the requirements and necessitate a permit, the general guideline for a simple, fixed structure of this size without additional features is that it does not require formal permits. This aligns with the assumption that such minor installations do not substantially impact the safety or zoning considerations within the community.