West Virginia § 8-12-4 - 8-12-4. Power to provide by charter for initiative, referendum and recall.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 8-12-4 — 8-12-4. Power to provide by charter for initiative, referendum and recall., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-12-4. 8-12-4. Power to provide by charter for initiative, referendum and recall.
Any city may by charter provision provide for any or all of the following:
(1) The initiation of ordinances by petition bearing the signatures, written in their own handwriting, of not less than ten percent of the qualified voters of such city;
(2) The submission to the qualified voters of such city of a proposed ordinance at a regular municipal election or special municipal election upon petition bearing the signatures, written in their own handwriting, of not less than ten percent of the qualified voters of such city or upon resolution of the governing body of such city; and
(3) The holding of a special municipal election to submit to the qualified voters of such city the question of the recall of an elected officer upon petition bearing the signatures, written in their own handwriting, of not less than twenty percent of the qualified voters of such city. Not more than one recall election shall be held with respect to an officer during his term of office.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 8-12-4
What does West Virginia Code § 8-12-4 cover?
Section 8-12-4 ("8-12-4. Power to provide by charter for initiative, referendum and recall.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite West Virginia § 8-12-4?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 8-12-4" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of West Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.
How does West Virginia § 8-12-4 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.