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Department of Building Inspections

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is the Building Department located and how do I contact them?
• Why do I need a Permit?
• Who is responsible for obtaining a building permit?
• What types of work require a permit?
• What do I need to submit to obtain my permit?
• How long does it take to get a permit?
• What happens if I begin work without a permit?
• How long is a permit valid?
• How soon can I start my job?
• How may I appeal a decision of the Building Department?
• How do I call for an inspection?
• May I fax an application or plans?
• What is the difference between the Ohio Building Code and the Hamilton County Building Code?
• How do I get my Certificate of Occupancy?
• Can I get a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy for my project?
• How do I file a Request for Investigation?

Why do I need a Permit?   [ top ]

Hamilton County regulations specify 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.

Who is responsible for obtaining a permit?  [ top ]

The owner of the property is ultimately responsible for securing a building permit.  However, this may be delegated to the architect, contractor or other agent.

What types of work require a permit?  [ top ]

A permit is required for new buildings and additions, all major repairs, alterations, swimming pools, installation of signs, installation, alteration or replacement of heating equipment and/or air conditioning equipment.  Permits are not required for painting, wallpapering, siding, replacement windows (no size change), re-shingling a roof and similar non-structural work.

            The following work requires a zoning certificate, but is exempt from building permits:

            a.    Fences

            b.    Accessory structures smaller than 200 sq.ft., 6 feet from any structure, in the rear yard at least 3 feet from property lines.

How long does it take to get a permit?  [ top ]

Residential plans are examined for compliance with the 2007 Hamilton County Building Code and, under normal circumstances, are reviewed within 4 working days of submittal.  If all agency approvals are received and plan approval is given upon completion of the first plan review, a permit could be issued within 5 working days.

Commercial plans are currently examined for compliance with the 2007 Ohio Building Code and, under normal circumstances, are reviewed within 12 working days of submittal. If all agency approvals are received and plan approval is given upon completion of the first plan review, a permit could be issued within 13 working days.   

What happens if I begin work without a permit?  [ top ]

 Any person, firm or corporation who begins work for which a permit is required without first obtaining said permit, shall be assessed a fine of double the appropriate permit fee.  Continued work without permit or non-compliance with Orders to obtain a permit may result in a citation to Hamilton County Municipal Court.  Additional penalty fees ($300 per day of violation - HCBC;  $1,000 per day of violation - OBC) may be assessed.

How long is a permit valid?  [ top ]  

All permits expire by limitation if work has not begun within six months from the date of permit issuance, or when the work has been discontinued for six months.  However, if the owner requests a renewal prior to the expiration of the permit, the permit can be extended for an additional six month period for a fee.  A permit may be renewed for only two extension periods.  A demolition permit is valid for thirty (30) days.

How soon can I start my job?  [ top ]

You may begin construction once your project has received full plan approval and the permit has been paid for and issued. 

May I fax an application or plans?  [ top ]

Not at this time.   Residential Mechanical Replacement HVAC permits can be applied for on the web, provided the applicant has an active Trust Account with the department.

What is the difference between the Ohio Building Code and the Hamilton County Building Code?  [ top ]

 The Hamilton County Building Code (HCBC), which consists of six Articles (A through F), regulates all building construction in our jurisdiction.  The administrative requirements of Article A require that commercial projects be governed by the most current adopted edition of the Ohio Building Code (OBC) as adopted by the Ohio Board of Building Standards, and residential projects are governed by the One-, Two- and Three-Family Dwelling Code found in Article F. The following is a break down of the Articles found in the HCBC;

2007 Hamilton County Building Code

 

Article A	Administration
Article B	Existing Buildings and Structures
Article C	Site Requirements
Article D	Plumbing
Article E	Electrical Requirements
Article Y	Protocol Agreement
Article F	Current Building Code as adopted by the Board of Building Standards

How do I get my Certificate of Occupancy?  [ top ]

You must schedule a Final Inspection.  Once the project has been completed and ALL inspections have been passed, you will receive a Certificate of Occupancy / Certificate of Completion.

Can I get a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy for my project?  [ top ]

Yes.  Life safety issues need to be addressed prior to requesting a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO).  Additional fees are required for the issuance of a TCO.  If you wish to inquire about the suitability of a TCO for your project, please contact your inspector.