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Registration News in WV

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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 effect​ive 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 Quicklinks section on the Board's homepage. 

West Virginia Data​

  • Total Number of Registered Architects: 1,446​
  • Total Number Residing in WV: 117
  • Total Number Out of State: 1,329
Data from 2/24/2023​.  To see how WV compares with other jurisdictions, see NCARB By the Numbers 2022. 

Board Affiliations
  • National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
  • West Virginia Association of Licensing Boards
 






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