West Virginia does not require a homeowner to be a licensed contractor if they are doing work on their home. The homeowner must state this prior to commencing any work when applying for a building permit. If the homeowner does not do all the work himself, he must hire a contractor who is licensed by the State of West Virginia.
For more information or to check if a contractor has a valid state license, contact with the WV Division of Labor at (304) 558-7890 or visit Contractor Search page
There are two Building Departments in McDowell County:
Gary City Permits
Address: Powerhouse Row Gary, West Virginia, 24801
Phone: 304-448-2209
Welch City Permits
Address: 88 Howard Street Welch, West Virginia, 24801