Frequently Asked Questions
Searching Permit Records
How far back do online permit records go?
The online Permit Search contains permits applied for on or after January 1, 2019, when the department converted to its current permit tracking system. Older permits (paper index cards, 1962–2018) can be researched in person or through a public records request.
Why can’t I find a permit I know exists?
The most common causes: (1) the parcel number was entered without its leading zeros —
enter it exactly as printed on the tax bill, e.g. 03-104-0221; (2) the permit
predates 2019; (3) the work was permitted by a municipality that does its own inspections
rather than by the county; (4) the permit was voided at intake and is not viewable online.
What do the permit statuses mean?
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Applied | Application received; plan review not yet started. |
| Under Review | Plan review in progress, or corrections requested from the applicant. |
| Approved | Plan review complete; permit ready to issue upon payment of balance. |
| Issued | Permit issued; work may proceed. Inspections are being recorded. |
| Expired | No approved inspection within 12 months; a renewal is required before work continues. |
| Denied | Application denied. A denial letter stating reasons was mailed to the applicant. |
| Withdrawn | Application withdrawn at the applicant’s request before issuance. |
Is the permit search an official record?
No. It is a convenience copy of the department’s tracking system, refreshed continuously during business hours. For an official certification of permit history on a parcel (often required for real estate closings), submit a written request with the $25.00 certification fee.
Applying for Permits
Do I need a permit to replace my roof?
Shingle-for-shingle replacement on a one- or two-family dwelling does not require a permit unless sheathing is replaced over more than 25% of the roof area. All commercial re-roofing requires a permit.
Can I do my own electrical or plumbing work?
An owner occupying (or intending to occupy) a single-family dwelling may perform their own trade work under an owner/builder permit, per ORC 3781.102. The work must still pass the same inspections. Rental and commercial property trade work must be performed by a registered, state-licensed contractor.
How long is a permit valid?
Twelve months from issuance, extended automatically by twelve months from each approved inspection. A permit with no approved inspection in twelve months lapses to Expired status.
My permit was denied. What can I do?
Denials may be appealed to the Ohio Board of Building Appeals within 30 days of the denial letter, or the application may be corrected and resubmitted (one resubmittal is included in the original plan review fee).
Page last updated: 09/03/2025