City of Cleveland

Department of Building and Housing

Requirements for Submission of Plans/Specifications

 

Do I need an architect or engineer to prepare my construction documents?

It depends.

We cannot stress the importance of well-prepared plans and specifications for your project. For projects involving one, two and three family residences, the services of an architect or engineer are not required. However, if the project is of any complexity, the services of these design professionals are strongly encouraged. Plans and specifications prepared by an architect or engineer will more adequately address the code issues our plan examiners are reviewing for.

For all other projects, consisting of residences of four or more units and all commercial structures, State Law requires the services of an architect or engineer. The only exception may be a use permit request where all conditions are existing and there will be no modifications. In this case, where the occupancy will be less than 30 persons, any competent individual may prepare the plans.

What plans should I have prepared for my project?

Again, the completeness and accuracy of your plans and specifications are the single-most important aspect of getting a permit application approved in as little time as possible. For this reason the list below is very detailed. Your project may not need everything listed. When in doubt include the information rather than deleting it.

Drawings (4 sets for alterations and 6 for new construction) shall be drawn to scale and include:

  • Index of drawings and symbol legend on cover sheet
  • Author of drawings and stamp of architect or engineer, if required
  • Plot or Site Plan showing street location, size of lot, location of all structures, location of parking lots with a layout and the location of utility services.
  • Floor Plans of all levels with dimensions, room names, door and window sizes, fire resistant construction. New, existing and walls to be removed should be shown differently.
  • Elevations of all affected areas with floor to floor heights.
  • Sections through the building, through walls, and floors showing the construction materials and sizes sufficiently to describe the general intent of the work.
  • Structural plans or notations indicating compliance with code design loads
  • Mechanical and electrical systems drawings or notations indicating compliance with code requirements, including but not limited to the Ohio Energy Code.

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