1. When do I need a permit?

Except for minor repairs, a permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, relocate or demolish a structure, or building equipment installed therein or to change a structure to another occupancy, or to excavate or fill an area in excess of five feet in vertical depth, or 100 cubic yards per each 5000 square feet of site area.

2. When do I need plans?

Plans are required to accompany all permit applications except for minor repairs or as otherwise approved by the Director of Buildings and Inspections.

3. How many layers of roofing may be applied before layers must be removed?

New roof coverings shall not be installed without first removing the existing roof coverings when the existing roof is water soaked or deteriorated to the point of being unacceptable as a base for additional roofing, or when the existing roof covering is wood shake, slate, clay or cement tile, or when the existing roof has two or more layers of any type of roofing.

4. Which side of the fence (good or bad) does my neighbor need to face toward my yard?

The Building Department has no jurisdiction over the aesthetics involved in the installation of the fence. Accepted practice has been to present the "good" side of the fence to the adjoining property, so as to allow the appearance to be fully appreciated by the individual looking "in" at the property on which the fence has been installed.

5. Must I have a survey performed to install a fence?

There is no requirement to have a survey prior to the installation of a fence; however, as insurance against any charge of property line infringement by adjoining property owners, a survey is highly recommended.

6. Do you want to inspect the soil before I dig the hole?

Soil inspections are performed after the hole is dug immediately prior to the placement of the concrete for the footers. The "hole" must be the required depth, below the frost line in most cases, which is normally 30 inches, and the soil at the point in termination must be original material, not fill, and must be clean and dry. If the plan calls for reinforcing steel, it must be in place at the time of the inspection.

7. How much is a permit?

Permit fees are based on the cost estimates of the work performed. For information regarding specific costs of a project you are planning, please call the permit desk at 352-3271.

8. Where do I get a permit?

3300 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45225

9. How long does it take?

Most repair permits can be processed the same day, and normally take less than a half an hour. Permits requiring plans which must be reviewed take more time, but the permit desk strives for expeditious issuance of permits.