West Virginia Grading and Drainage Permit Requirements

Grading projects disturbing one or more acres must obtain WV/NPDES Construction Stormwater coverage with stabilization deadlines, sediment barriers, and outlet protection. The State Building Code adopted by the State Fire Commission references the International Residential Code, which governs lot drainage requiring positive slope away from foundations and proper finished-grade swales. Surface mining grading is regulated under §22-3 with approximate-original-contour reclamation. Oil-and-gas pad construction under §22-6A imposes erosion and sediment controls. Local grading ordinances may add detail but must respect state preemption over mining and energy operations.

Grading without required permits or violating reclamation standards may trigger WVDEP stop-work orders, civil penalties, and required restoration of natural drainage.