Columbus Permitting Note: A building permit is required for any fence over 6 feet tall, while zoning clearance is triggered for decks and sheds exceeding 169 square feet.
About Building Permits in Columbus
Building permits in Columbus are issued by the City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services (BZS). Most residential permit applications are submitted online through the Columbus Citizen Access Portal portal at columbus.gov/Business-Development/Building-Zoning-Services. Processing times for standard residential projects typically run 5–10 business days for standard residential permits.
2024 Residential Code of Ohio. Columbus adopted by-right ADU legislation in late 2025, allowing accessory units on most residential lots without a zoning variance.
All inspections are scheduled through the Citizen Access Portal.