West Virginia enforces a minimum statewide building code, with the State Fire Commission overseeing adoption and enforcement. Local jurisdictions are required to adopt and enforce the state’s minimum building standards but have the option to propose more stringent amendments if approved by the State Fire Commission.

Local jurisdictions cannot adopt codes that are less restrictive than the statewide code. Any local amendments must be justified based on local conditions and must not contradict state law. While local building officials are responsible for enforcement, they must follow the state-adopted codes unless specific, approved amendments apply.