Do I need a permit to do work on my own home?

You do not need a permit to paint and perform minor maintenance or repairs. However, a permit is required to reroof; apply siding; install gutters, doors and windows; or build decks, porches and ramps. A residential permit is also required to finish basements and attics and for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work. The homeowner’s affidavit form is required with each homeowner’s permit application. You can get the forms here.

Can I get building permits online?

Not at this time, however all applications can be downloaded from this site here.

How do I contact the Building and Housing office?

Call 216.664.2910 or send an email.

Where is the building permit office and when is it open?

City Hall room 505 at 601 Lakeside Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44114. The office is open from 8 am to 5 pm.

What do I do if I receive a rental registration invoice or rental registration violation notice?

Do not ignore the notice. To avoid additional late fees, and/or prosecution, pay your rental registration when you receive the invoice.

Am I required to register my rental property with the City of Cleveland?

Rental property within the City of Cleveland must be registered every year. There is an annual fee of $35 per unit. -more.

What is a Certificate of Occupancy?

A legal document issued by the Department of Building and Housing which certifies compliance with the Ohio Building Code and the City of Cleveland Building Code. It outlines the legal use of an establishment, the occupant load, the allowable load, and any special conditions relating to the use of the establishment. -more.

What is the Certificate of Disclosure and is there a fee?

The Certificate of Disclosure gives the code enforcement history of dwelling units (up to 4) to buyers, sellers and escrow/transferring agents for real estate transactions prior to closing. There is a $60.00 fee for the service.

How do I correct a condemnation violation notice?

Secure all necessary permits (Building, Electrical, Plumbing and HVAC). Correct all of the items on the violation notice and obtain a Certificate of Occupancy.

What if I need more than 30 days to correct housing violations?

You can file an appeal for an extension of time at the Board of Building Standards in room 516 at Cleveland City Hall or call 216.664.2418.

What do I do if I receive a building, housing or zoning code violation notice?

Do not ignore the notice, to avoid prosecution and demolition (of condemned properties) all violations must be corrected. You have the right to appeal the violation notice at the Board of Building Standards, room 516 at Cleveland City Hall. For more information on the appeal process call 216.664.2418. Once the permit is issued you have 30 days to correct the violations.

How do I become a registered contractor in the City of Cleveland?

All contractor registration forms can be found here here. To register as an electrical, plumbing or HVAC contractor, you must first be licensed by the State of Ohio. For information call the Industry Licensing Board at 614.644.3493.

Does the city have a list of all contractors in good standing?

No, but once you have a contractor, you can confirm their registration through email or call 216.664.2884.

Is there a special process to get a permit for a beehive or chicken coop?

You must submit a building application along with a site plan indicating the structure's location and size to the Department of Building and Housing (216.664.2282). In addition, you are also required to get a license from the Health Department (216.664.2300).

Do I need a permit to erect a fence at my house?

Yes. A site plan indicating the property boundaries, location, height, type of fence and its proximity to neighboring structures on adjacent properties, and application is required. For more information, see the fence regulations and sample residential site plan.

The power company will not turn my lights on without an electrical inspection, what should I do?

An electrical permit is required. Call the inspector whose name and number appears on the permit to make an appointment. Once approved, the city will call the power company and your service will be turned on.

Where can I find the list of general permit fees?

General Permit Fees

How would I know if the home improvements I’m making require a permit?

There are three ways you can check:

• Visit the permit guide page here
• Contact the Department of Building and Housing at 216.664.2910
• Send an email

How do I make a complaint about a property?

Fill out a complaint form and fax it to 216.420.7582 or call 216.664.2007 or come to City Hall room 517 between the hours of 9am and 3pm.