What kinds of building projects require a building permit in Ohio?

In Ohio, the basic rule is that the construction of all new buildings and work that structurally changes existing buildings through remodeling and additions will require a building permit. Most electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work beyond basic repairs will also require a building permit. Depending on the regulations in your city, you may need a building permit for smaller projects as well, including fences, storage sheds, decks, patios, and satellite dish installment. It is best to check with your local city or county Building Department in Ohio to find out if you will need a building permit before starting any project that will involve construction.

CLICK THE LINKS TO YOUR CITY BELOW TO APPLY FOR A BUILDING PERMIT Some cities have a general building permit application, whereas others have separate permit applications for project type or for the different phases of construction. Not all cities have forms on their site and might only list a contact and phone number.

Akron	Canton	Cincinnati
Cleveland	Columbus	Dayton
Elyria	Euclid	Hamilton
Kettering	Lakewood	Lorain
Mentor	Middletown	Parma
Springfield	Toledo	Youngstown

Who issues building permits in Ohio?

Normally it is the local city Building Department in the municipality in Ohio where the property or project is found that will process your application and issue the permit. However in rural areas it is often the county Building Department that handles all permitting. Regardless of whether you apply for your permit with a city or a county government, the application process in Ohio is generally the same. However, because building regulations are set by the local government, permit requirements do vary throughout the state of Ohio.

When do I need to apply in Ohio for my construction permit?

Except in extreme circumstances, you must have your building permit before any construction can begin in Ohio. Working without a valid permit can subject you to fines and penalties and affect the completion of your project. The only time it may be possible to do work without a permit when a building permit is required is in the case of emergency repairs. Some cities in Ohio, like Cleveland, will allow you to make emergency repairs or replacements without a permit, but a building permit application must still be filed the next business day with the city Building Department. The processing time of your application will depend on the complexity of the project and how many other government agencies must sign off on it. Commercial and industrial applications will usually take longer than residential applications. Your local Building Department can give you an estimated processing time before you file your application, but the average time in Ohio is usually one to two weeks.

In Ohio, is a building permit the same thing as a zoning permit?

No, these are two separate processes. If your property needs to be rezoned because you are changing the intended use of the building or it is not currently zoned for your intended use, you must file a zoning application with the city in Ohio where you are doing construction. You must receive your zoning permit before you can file your building permit application. If the property is not correctly zoned for your proposed project, your application for a building permit will be rejected.  

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