ADU Rules in West Virginia (2026)
ADU rules in West Virginia — no statewide ADU law. Regulation is entirely local. Key provisions and city-specific frameworks for accessory dwelling units.
Law Name
Preempts Local Ordinances
No — local rules may be stricter
Has State Law
No — regulation is local
Statewide Preemption Status Unconfirmed
No statewide preemption statute was confirmed for this jurisdiction — regulation is local. Local governments retain full authority to set their own rules.
Local Control Framework
West Virginia does not have a statewide ADU law as of 2026 · Source
ADU regulation is left to local municipalities under West Virginia Code Chapter 8A (Land Use Planning) · Source
West Virginia has limited mandatory zoning — many rural areas have no zoning regulations at all · Source
Only municipalities with adopted zoning codes regulate ADUs — rules vary widely · Source
Charleston, Huntington, and Morgantown have their own local zoning ordinances that may address ADUs · Source
West Virginia's sparse population and rural character mean ADU demand is lower than in coastal states · Source
Source: West Virginia Local Zoning Authority. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source