Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about county services. If your question isn’t answered here, try the Department Directory or Contact page to reach the right office.

When are my property taxes due?

Clairmont County collects real property taxes semi-annually. First-half bills are due in February and second-half bills are due in July; exact due dates are set each year by the Treasurer and printed on your tax bill. Manufactured home taxes follow a separate March/July schedule. Contact the Treasurer’s office for the current year’s due dates and payment options.

How do I license my dog?

Ohio law requires every dog over three months of age to be licensed each year. Licenses cost $16.00 and may be purchased from the Auditor’s office, participating township offices, or participating veterinary clinics during the December 1 – January 31 renewal window. See Dog Licensing for full details, including the new-resident rule and kennel licenses.

Where do I vote?

Polling locations are assigned by precinct and occasionally change between elections. Check your assigned location, sample ballot, and registration status with the Board of Elections, or call the Board office directly before Election Day if you’ve recently moved.

How do I get a marriage license?

Marriage licenses are issued by the Probate Court, not the Auditor or the state. Both applicants must appear in person with valid photo identification and, if previously married, proof that the prior marriage ended. The fee is $65.00, payable at the time of application. Licenses are valid for 60 days from issuance and may be used anywhere in Ohio.

How do I get a copy of a birth or death certificate?

Certified birth and death certificates are issued by the Health District’s Vital Statistics office, not the Recorder or Clerk of Courts. See Vital Records for fees, what’s available, and walk-in versus mail-order timing.

Do I need a permit to install a septic system?

Yes. Household sewage treatment systems require a permit from the Health District before installation, alteration, or repair, and the site must pass a soil evaluation. Contact the Health District before hiring a contractor or breaking ground.

Who do I call about a pothole or a dead deer in the road?

Maintenance of county roads, including pothole repair, downed trees, and removal of deer or other animal carcasses from the roadway, is handled by the County Engineer’s road department. Call (740) 555-4650 with the road name and nearest cross road or address. Township and municipal streets are maintained by the township trustees or the village, not the county.

Do I need a permit for a shed?

Depending on size and location, a small accessory structure may or may not require a permit. Contact Building & Development Services before you build to confirm whether your project needs a permit and what zoning setbacks apply.

How do I get a concealed handgun license (CCW)?

Concealed handgun license applications are processed by the Sheriff’s office by appointment only, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Bring the required training certificate, valid photo ID, and payment for the statutory fee. Call the Sheriff’s office to schedule.

I received a jury summons. What do I do?

Jury service for Common Pleas Court is administered by the Clerk of Courts. Follow the instructions on your summons, including how to request a postponement or claim an exemption. Most jurors can confirm whether they must report by calling the juror information line listed on the summons the evening before their report date.

How do I request a public record?

Most county records are public and available on request from the office that keeps them; a written request isn’t required, but it helps. See Public Records for copy fees and response times.

Can I reserve a shelter house at a county park?

Yes. Sycamore Creek Park, Fairview Lake Park, and Veterans Memorial Park all have reservable shelter houses. See County Parks for capacities, fees, and how to reserve a date through the Commissioners’ office.

Where do I see county job openings?

Current openings across all county departments, along with application instructions, are posted at Employment. Openings for the Sheriff’s office, JFS, and other departments are updated as positions become available.

How do I pay a traffic ticket?

Traffic citations issued in Clairmont County are handled by the Clerk of Courts, Traffic Division. Payment may be made in person at the courthouse or by mail with the citation number. If you intend to contest the citation, you must appear on or before your scheduled court date rather than paying the fine.

How do I report a stray dog?

Call the Dog Warden at (740) 555-4681 to report a stray, injured, or loose dog, or to inquire about a dog you believe has been picked up. The Dog Warden also investigates dog bite reports and nuisance dog complaints under ORC Chapter 955.

This page is a general guide and does not replace the Ohio Revised Code or individual office policies. When in doubt, call the office listed — requirements can change between updates to this page.

Page last updated: 05/11/2026