For construction professionals expanding into Ohio, understanding how to navigate the Ohio building permit process is critical for avoiding any major construction delays. Whether you’re working on a residential renovation or a large-scale commercial build, permit requirements vary by city, township, and county.
What requires a building permit in Ohio?
Most construction work in Ohio requires a building permit. Per the Ohio Building Code (OBC), permits are needed for:
- New residential and commercial construction
- Additions, alterations, and tenant improvements
- Structural work
- Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing installations
- Demolitions
You typically do not need a permit for cosmetic upgrades such as painting or flooring. However, local authorities will have final say, so it’s important to check with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) where your project is located.
Who issues building permits in Ohio?
Ohio operates under a local enforcement model. This means cities and counties administer permits locally, while the Ohio Board of Building Standards (BBS) provides statewide code regulation. Most medium-to-large cities have their own certified building departments, while smaller jurisdictions may contract with the Ohio Department of Commerce or a third-party firm.
You can verify a certified building department using Ohio’s Building Department Search Tool.
Ohio building permit costs
Permit costs differ across jurisdictions but usually depend on project scope and valuation.
Some cities charge flat fees; others charge per square foot or as a percentage of the project valuation. Check with the local AHJ or consult their published fee schedules online.
Unique considerations when permitting in Ohio
Construction firms should be aware of the following hurdles:
- Multiple authorities per parcel: It’s common to deal with different agencies for zoning, building, health, and fire approvals.
- State Fire Marshal (SFM) reviews: Projects in unincorporated areas may require additional review from the SFM.
- Stormwater permits: For larger sites, compliance with Ohio EPA NPDES permits may be required.
- Variations in digital readiness: While some cities offer online permitting, others are still paper-based or require hybrid submissions.
How to get a building permit in Ohio
Permit applications can be submitted in person or online, depending on the jurisdiction. Here's a general step-by-step guide:
1. Confirm local jurisdiction
Use the County Auditor or municipality GIS tools to verify which city or township has permitting authority over the parcel.
2. Review applicable codes
Ohio enforces the Ohio Building Code, Residential Code of Ohio, and specialty codes for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Always confirm if local amendments apply.
3. Prepare required documentation
Most permit applications require the following:
4. Submit your application
Methods include:
- In-person submission at the local building department
- Online portals (e.g., City of Columbus, Cleveland)
- Third-party digital permitting platforms like PermitFlow
5. Wait for plan review
Plan reviews may take anywhere from 5 business days (for simple residential projects) to 4+ weeks (for large commercial jobs), depending on the jurisdiction.
6. Pay fees
Permit fees are typically based on project valuation or square footage. Some departments offer fee calculators.
7. Begin work and request inspections
You may only start work after the permit is approved. Be sure to schedule required inspections as your project progresses.
