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Zoning Guide

Princeton Zoning & Land Use Guide

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Key Zoning Facts

Planning Department
City of Princeton Planning Department(304) 487-5000
Building Code Edition
WV State Building Code (IBC/IRC based)
ADUs Allowed
No
Primary District
R-1 — Single-Family Residential
Max Height
35 ft

Princeton Zoning Overview

Princeton is a city in West Virginia with approximately 5,898 residents, located in Mercer County. The city manages land use and development through its local zoning ordinance, which divides the municipality into districts regulating permitted uses, building heights, lot sizes, setbacks, and density.

West Virginia follows the WV State Building Code, which is based on the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC). Local jurisdictions may adopt additional amendments.

Primary Zoning Districts

Princeton's zoning code includes several district classifications (R-1, R-2, C-1, I). The R-1 (Single-Family Residential) district requires a minimum lot size of 7,500 sq ft with setbacks of 25 ft (front), 8 ft (side), and 20 ft (rear). Maximum height is 35 ft. The R-2 (Multi-Family Residential) district has varying lot size requirements with setbacks of 20 ft (front), 6 ft (side), and 15 ft (rear). Maximum height is 40 ft. The C-1 (Commercial) district has varying lot size requirements with setbacks of 10 ft (front), 0-10 ft (side), and 10 ft (rear). Maximum height is 45 ft. The I (Industrial) district has varying lot size requirements with setbacks of 25 ft (front), 10 ft (side), and 20 ft (rear). Maximum height is 50 ft.

ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Rules

Princeton does not have specific ADU provisions confirmed. Contact the city for current regulations. West Virginia does not have a statewide ADU mandate.

Development Process

Development in Princeton generally requires obtaining the appropriate permits from the city's planning and building departments. The process typically involves:

  1. Zoning Verification — Confirm that your proposed use is permitted in the applicable zoning district
  2. Site Plan Review — For commercial and multi-family projects, submit a site plan for review
  3. Building Permit — Apply for a building permit with construction documents
  4. Inspections — Schedule required inspections during construction
  5. Certificate of Occupancy — Obtain final approval before occupying the structure

For projects that do not conform to existing zoning, property owners may need to seek a variance, special exception, or rezoning through the local board of zoning appeals or planning commission.

Key Considerations

Before starting any development project in Princeton, property owners should:

  • Verify the zoning classification of their property
  • Review setback, height, and lot coverage requirements for their specific district
  • Check for any overlay districts or special regulations
  • Determine if the property is in a flood zone using FEMA's flood map service
  • Confirm whether HOA covenants or deed restrictions apply
  • Contact the Planning Department at (304) 487-5000 for pre-application guidance

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Princeton and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the City of Princeton or the municipal code before making development decisions.

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Princeton

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — West Virginia

  • Building Code: WV State Building Code
View West Virginia zoning overview

County — Mercer County

  • Role: County-level property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning

City / Municipal

The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
  • Check HOA CC&Rs and deed restrictions for additional requirements.

Primary Zoning Districts

R-1Single-Family Residential
Min Lot
7,500 sq ft
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
8 ft
Rear Setback
20 ft
R-2Multi-Family Residential
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
40 ft
Front Setback
20 ft
Side Setback
6 ft
Rear Setback
15 ft
C-1Commercial
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
45 ft
Front Setback
10 ft
Side Setback
0-10 ft
Rear Setback
10 ft
IIndustrial
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
50 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
10 ft
Rear Setback
20 ft

ADU Rules in Princeton

ADUs:Not Allowed

Permit Costs & Timelines

Permit Costs & Timelines

Specific permit fee schedules for Princeton are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

Check Princeton permit fees →

Official Sources

City of Princetonprincetonwv.orgOfficial sourcePrinceton Municipal Codelibrary.municode.comOfficial source

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the zoning for my property in Princeton?
Contact the Princeton Planning Department at (304) 487-5000 or visit https://www.princetonwv.org. You can also review the municipal code for zoning district descriptions and permitted uses.
What building code does Princeton follow?
West Virginia follows the WV State Building Code, which is based on the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC). Contact the local building department for specific requirements and local amendments.
Do I need a permit for home improvements in Princeton?
Most structural modifications, additions, and changes of use require a building permit. Contact the Princeton building department at (304) 487-5000 for specific requirements.
Can I build an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) in Princeton?
ADU regulations vary by municipality. Contact the Princeton Planning Department at (304) 487-5000 for current requirements regarding accessory dwelling units.