The city strives to encourage small and large business development. In addition, we have an active Downtown Merchants Association and much of our Elkins downtown is a designated Historic District, which means there are tax incentives to renovating historic buildings to suit your needs. The opportunities are endless!

Location, location, location.

The City of Elkins is nestled within a days drive of 2/3 of our nation's population. Elkins businesses have the advantage of close proximity to major economic hubs while enjoying the benefits of living in a scenic and safe environment. We are only one hour away from the Snowshoe Resort community of Marlinton and only 45 minutes away from the Canaan Valley tourist destinations. We enjoy the benefits of being a college town (Davis & Elkins College) with a vibrant arts scene. Come for a visit then stay to follow your dreams.

Below you will find some useful business forms to download. Forms should be dropped off or mailed to: Elkins City Hall, 401 Davis Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241

Building Permits

Applications for building permits must be submitted in writing on forms provided by the city to build, alter, repair or hang a sign for any project over $800. Valuations from $800 to $3000 will be charged $10.00 per project. All other projects are .333% of total valuation of construction.

Permit applications must be submitted by the Monday before each Council meeting for approval by the Building Inspector, the Chairman of the Building Committee and City Council before work can be done.

Applications are available at:
Elkins City Hall, 401 Davis Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241

Or download a PDF copy here

Business License

An application for a business license must be obtained from the City Treasurer. The Business & Occupation tax is assessed based on a computation of gross income.

Applications are available at: Elkins City Hall, 401 Davis Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241

Or download a PDF copy here

The following websites and agencies provide helpful information to those who are interested in starting a business in the City of Elkins or who currently have a business and are looking to expand.

Additional Resources:

U.S. Small Business Administration
West Virginia District Office
320 West Pike Street, Suite 330
Clarksburg, WV  26301
(304) 623-5631
www.sba.gov/wv

Small Business Development Center
1900 Kanawha Blvd., E
Charleston, WV  25305
888-982-7232
www.sbdcwv.org

Randolph County Development Authority
The RCDA is an organization devoted to advancing sustainable growth and prosperity in Randolph County through economic development initiatives.  The RCDA's strategic focus is centered on three themes:  Business Development, Community Development, and Training & Education.
(304) 637-0803 
www.rcdawv.org

Randolph County Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber provides helpful information to its members and to businesses that are considering establishing themselves and relocating their families to the area. The Chamber staff and Board of Directors are working daily to advocate for the interests of business, and to provide communication and networking possibilities for Chamber members.
www.erccc.com

Elkins Downtown Merchants Association
This organization meets every other Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. and is comprised of retail, professional and service professionals from both downtown and the surrounding community. The purpose of the group is to discuss promotional strategies.
Ed Griesel, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Ceramics with Class
304-636-2903

Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits
The Rehabilitation Investment Tax Credit Program provides for a federal income tax credit and a West Virginia state income tax credit for the rehabilitation of historic, income producing properties. Under the provisions of the Tax Reform Act of 1986, a 20% federal tax credit is available for the substantial rehabilitation of commercial, agricultural, industrial or rental residential buildings that are certified as historic. The credit is applied directly against taxes owed by the owner. There is a similar 10% state income tax credit available to owners. The total credit on a qualified project is 30% of approved rehabilitation costs.
http://www.wvculture.org/shpo/tccomm.html

Facts and Figures:

Housing values and income: (According to the 2000 Census)
Median value of owner-occupied homes in Randolph County - $71,800
Median household income in Randolph County - $27,299
Click here for more statistical information. Click here for Census data.

Real Estate: The quality of life and abundance of unspoiled natural beauty make Randolph County a great place to live and do business.  Land is being sought here more and more as a retreat from the busy metropolitan life.  The real estate market in Randolph County is steady.

There is a variety of real estate companies, agents, and appraisers to assist those looking to relocate to the area.  There is a multiple listing service that is handled by the Elkins-Randolph Board of Realtors.  Minimal zoning exists in the county.  There is some zoning in the new housing developments and within the city limits of Elkins.  The median list price for homes currently on the market in Randolph County is $117,000.00.

Although the rental market in the county is slow, the commercial market is active.  There have been five new subdivisions in the last five years.  Currently there are several store front properties on the market in downtown Elkins. Check the links below for further information on real estate in the county:

Click on "Home Buyer Solutions" at www.theintermountain.com

Or review MLS listings at http://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Elkins_WV