Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Charleston, WV

Complete permit and license guide for starting a plumbing contractor in Charleston, Kanawha County, West Virginia.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $400–$1,200 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all licenses
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of West Virginia

1 stop

  1. West Virginia State Tax Department — Business Registration

    All businesses operating in West Virginia must register with the State Tax Department. West Virginia charges a 6% state sales tax; municipalities may add up to 1%. The Business Registration Certificate is required before commencing business.

    Official government source

    $30 (Business Registration Certificate)Immediate (online via MyTaxes)

City of Charleston / Kanawha County

3 stops

  1. West Virginia Division of Labor — Plumbing Contractor License

    Plumbing contractors in West Virginia must hold a Plumbing Contractor License. A Master Plumber must be designated. Requires passing a state exam.

    Official government source

    $100–$200 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. City of Charleston Business License Division — Business License

    Charleston requires a City Business License for all businesses within city limits. The Business License Division processes applications and annual renewals. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

  3. Kanawha County / Charleston Plumbing Permit (per project)

    A separate permit must be pulled with the local building/plumbing department for each job. Inspections are required upon job completion.

    Official government source

    $50–$300 per project1–5 business days

Terminus

Open for business — est. $400–$1,200 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all licenses

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Official Sources

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