New Path to Reciprocal Registration for West Virginia Residents
As a result of Senate Bill 458, an additional path to reciprocal registration for West Virginia residents now exists. Architects registered in other jurisdictions who can document residency in West Virginia can become registered to practice architecture by applying through this reciprocal pathway beginning on July 1, 2025. SB 458, passed during the 2025 Regular Session of the West Virginia Legislature states the following:
Pursuit to W.Va. Code §30-1-27, a person shall be granted an occupational or professional license, registration, or certificate if the person has been licensed or certified in another state, the license, registration, or certificate is in the same discipline and at the same practice level as the license, registration, or certificate for which the person is applying in this state and the person meets the conditions prescribed by W.Va. Code §30-1-27.
For more information about this pathway to reciprocal registration and documenting residency, contact the Board Office or email Emily.B.Papadopoulos@wv.gov .
State Fire Marshal Announces New Electronic Plans Review Submittal Process
State Fire Marshal Ken Tyree announced on September 26, 2024 a transition away from hard copies of drawings/plans after November 15, 2024 as the new submittal system is beta tested for electronic submission of plans effective on January 1, 2025. Read the SFM's memo below and also check the SFM's website for the latest information.
Click here to access the SFM's Memo
Newly Adopted State Fire Code Effective May 1
There are several significant changes that will affect the design, construction, remodel / renovation / repair, fire protection system installation, and inspection of buildings. The following are some highlights of the significant changes:
- Section 1.8 Conflicts
- Section 2.1.a.1 New High-Rise Definition
- Section 2.1.c.1 Referenced Publications in lieu of Appendix A of previous State Fire Code
- Section 2.1.d Plans Review and Inspection Authority and Requirements highlighting new Electronic Submittal Plans Review Process effective January 1, 2025
- Section 2.1.d.4 New Plans Review Timeline Completion Process
- Section 2.2.a New Sprinkler Protection and Limitation Requirements pertaining to Height & Area, Occupancy Specific Requirements and Exceptions
- Section 2.2.c New Fire Alarm Requirement Specifications utilizing NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, Occupancy Chapters
- Section 2.2.e.2 Modular Classroom Structure Requirements and Exceptions
- Section 2.4 Certification Requirements for Fire Protection Systems ITM and Design
To ensure timely response and turn around for all future submissions, the State Fire Marshal requires all drawings/plans shall include a Life Safety Plan and Building/Fire Code Analysis form with emphasis on the applicable fire codes (NFPA 1, NFPA 101, Other applicable NFPA Codes & State Fire Code).
Click here to access the New State Fire Code.
Other News
Fee Waivers - Effective July 1, 2020, waivers of initial licensing fees are available to military families and low-income individuals. More information is available under the Architects tab and in the forms and fee schedule.
Fee for Verification of Certification - As a result of rule changes effective July 1, 2020, architects requesting a paper verification of certification from the Board will be charged a $25.00 fee. Free electronic verifications are still available under "License Lookup" under the Quick links section on the Board's homepage.
West Virginia Data
Total Number of Registered Architects: 1,508
Total Number Residing in WV: 120
Total Number Out of State: 1,388
Data from 2/24/2024. To see how WV compares with other jurisdictions, see NCARB By the Numbers 2024.
Board Affiliations
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
West Virginia Association of Licensing Boards
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