What do I need to apply for a permit?
All permits require a site plan, approved zoning permit (where applicable) in zoned townships, and an approved Stormwater permit for projects in the jurisdiction of the Richland County Soil and Water Conservation District. For specific permits requirements, please refer to the Residential Building Checklist or Commercial Building Checklist found on the forms page. A detailed site plan checklist is available on the forms page as well.
How many sets of drawings do I need to submit?
A minimum of two sets of drawings need to be submitted. For Fire Alarms/Sprinklers/Suppression, a minimum of three sets of drawings need to be submitted.
How do I apply for a permit?
Submit all of the required information to our office in person from 8:00 am -3:30 pm Monday-Friday or mail the required information and fees. An application and fee schedule is found on our forms page. If you are unsure of any fees, please call our office at (419) 774-5517 or submit the required information and we will calculate the fees and contact you with the amount required.
How long does it take to get a permit?
- For residential permits, the review process is approximately 7-10 business days
- For commercial permits, the review process is approximately 10-15 business days.
- Once a building permit is issued and ready to pick up, the applicant will be called.
- For commercial projects, electronic approvals and walk-through approvals are available to expedite the plan approval process.
What is the cost of a permit?
The cost is based upon the type and size of project. Please refer to The Richland County Fee schedule for permits within Richland County. For other counties, please refer to the fee schedule for the Counties of Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Seneca, and Wyandot.
What services are covered by the permit fees?
Permit fees cover the application, plan review, all inspections of building, electrical, mechanical, and the certificate of occupancy. Additional fees may be charged during the construction process for reasons including but not limited to the following: additional review of revised drawings, missed inspections, multiple inspections for incomplete work, or additional square footage in the project.
What happens if I don't get a permit?
If you are working without a permit, inspectors will order all work stopped and have any contractors leave the jobsite immediately. Permit fees will be doubled, and work cannot continue begin again until a permit is issued.
How long is a permit valid?
Applicants have twelve (12) months from the date the permit is issued to start construction, otherwise the permit expires. If in the course of construction, work is delayed or suspended for more than six months the permit becomes invalid. You may request an extension prior to the expiration of the permit for an additional fee.
How detailed do my drawings have to be?
- For a residential building plan the plans must be clear and understandable so that a contractor can build it per the plan. Building plans for residential projects do not require an Engineers or Architects seal other than for loads or techniques not addressed in the Residential Code of Ohio. An engineered design is required on foundations with unbalanced fill greater than 4 feet and not reinforced per the Residential Code of Ohio. Please see the Residential Building Checklist for specific residential plan requirements.
- For a commercial building permit the plans must be sealed by a Registered Design Professional (an architect or engineer registered with the State of Ohio). The plans must contain all pertinent information per the Ohio Building Code. Please see the Commercial Building Checklist for specific commercial plan requirements.
