1. Why do I need a permit?
City ordinance specifies that a permit be issued when work is to be performed on a structure. The resulting inspection may uncover shoddy work, faulty materials, deviations from plans, or violations of the code that could result in unsafe or hazardous conditions for you, your family, your employees or the general public.
2. What are the permit fees based on?
The permit fee for new buildings and additions is based on the valuation of construction as determined by the Buildings Department using the fee schedule contained in Policy Directive 92. Other permit fees are based on the estimated cost of work shown on the application form.
3. How many plans do I need when applying for a permit?
The following is a list of typical projects and the required number of plans for each:
New Buildings:
- 4 sets of plans.
- 5 sets of surveys with legible stamp of registered copy.
- 1 energy report.
Additions under 500 Square Feet:
- 4 sets of plans.
- 4 sets of site plans.
- 1 energy report.
Additions over 500 Square Feet:
- 4 sets of plans.
- 5 sets of site plans.
- 1 energy report.
Alterations: (decks, signs, awnings, walls, flagpoles, fences, sheds, haunted houses, interior, demolitions, etc.)
- 3 sets of plans.
- 3 sets of site plans.
Any Building Permit which includes HVAC work:
- 4 sets of plans which include mechanical plans.
- 1 HVAC application in addition to Building Permit Application all others as required above Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning.
- 3 sets of plans.
Kitchen Hood Fire Suppression & Walk-Thru Permits for Sprinklers:
- 4 sets of plans.
A sixth set of site plans/surveys will expedite the review of plans by allowing the Public Works Permit and License Center to review plans for sidewalk and driveway requirements at the same time other reviews are being done instead of waiting until other reviews are complete.
An energy report is necessary for alterations involving Energy Code items such as new windows, insulation or a new shower.
Swimming Pools: (In-ground and above ground)
- 4 sets of plans.
- 4 sets of site plans.
Tents
- 3 sets of plans.
- 3 sets of site plans.
- 3 copies of certificate verifying fabric is flame resistant.
Parking Lots and Excavation and Fill:
- 5 sets of plans.
- 5 sets of site plans.
Phase I Environmental Assessment for fills greater than 500 cubic yards in residential districts or 1,000 cubic yards in other districts,
Demolition
- No plans necessary. A separate application describing the structure to be demolished is required.
Daycare
- 6 sets of plans.
4. When are plans required to be certified by a registered engineer or architect?
Plans and associated construction documents for new construction and major alteration work for buildings and structures regulated by the Ohio Basic Building Code are required to be prepared by an Ohio register architect or professional engineer.
5. What types of work require a permit?
A permit is required for major repairs, alterations, new buildings and additions, most excavation and filling of land, signs, and paved parking areas greater than 800 square feet in a area. Minor work such as flat work on grade, painting, wallpapering, and routine maintenance of heating, air conditioning, plumbing or electrical systems typically do not require a permit.
6. What is the difference between a Certificate of Occupancy and a Certificate of Inspection?
Certificate of Occupancy:
When the occupancy type of a building is changed or when an addition or new building is completed, a Certificate of Occupancy must be obtained before the structure can legally be occupied. A Certificate of Occupancy is required for all alterations except those in 1, 2, or 3 family dwellings which do not create new habitable space, e.g.; finishing a basement.
Certificate of Inspection:
A property owner or his agent may apply for a Certificate of Inspection. This is sometimes done at the request of a potential buyer. A special inspection of the property is made, and the results are recorded on the Certificate of Inspection. The certificate will either state that at the time of the inspection the property was in substantial compliance with the Building and Zoning Codes for its current use, or a list of major violations become orders after 60 days from the issuance of the Certificate of Inspection.
7. What is the difference between the Ohio Basic Code and the Cincinnati Basic Building Code?
The Ohio Basic Building and Mechanical Code applies to construction for all buildings except 1, 2, and 3 family dwellings and to hazard abatement in all existing residential buildings as well as flood plan management, excavation and fill, and elevators.
8. How long is a permit valid?
For a wrecking permit to remain valid, demolition must begin within 120 days. All other permits expire by limitation if work has not begun within twelve months from the date of permit issuance or when the work has been discontinued for six months. However, if the owner request a renewal prior to the expiration of the permit, the permit can be extended for an additional twelve month period for a fee.
9. May I fax an application or plans?
Yes. This service is designed to provide easy and rapid access for obtaining permits for commercial and residential work which does not require drawings. Permits for items such as furnace or air conditioning replacement, repairs and plumbing work can be faxed.
Prerequisites for using this service are an active escrow account to pay for the permit, an application which does not require plans, and a fax number for receiving the permit. Faxed applications received by 9:00 a.m. on a city work day will generate a faxed permit by 5:00 p.m. the same day. The fax number for permits is (513) 352-2579.
10. Why do I have to submit mechanical plans with building plans at the same time?
Because of all the regulations in both the Building and Mechanical Code that overlap such as fire damper locations, shafts, occupant load and ventilation air rates, etc., it would be impossible to design and review one properly without the other. For this reason, they are required to be submitted together.
