Obtaining an Building Permit in Fairlawn and Bath

Whether you’re a new home owner or you’ve lived in the same place for many years, making improvements to your home are just part of the joy – or pain – of homeownership. But some changes to your home will require a building permit before you get started. Here are five things to know about getting a building permit in Fairlawn.

Permits for the city of Bath are handled by the Summit County Division of Building Standards after obtaining a zoning permit from the city. For more information about getting building permits form the Summit County Division of Building Standards, view this story from , another city where permits are handled through the county.

When do you need a building permit?

Building permits are required for residential home improvements that aren’t considered routine maintenance. Permits are required for projects including:

• Building an addition, deck, porch or fence
• Replacing your roof or siding
• Installing a swimming pool

Most permits require a 7 to 10 day wait, however roofing and siding permits can often be issued over the counter. If your project requires plumbing, electrical or HVAC work, permits for these projects must be obtained from the Summit County Division of Building Standards.

“Let us know about your project and we can let you know whether or not a building permit is necessary,” said assistant building commissioner Bill Arnold. “Give us all the details of your project and we’d be happy to help you out.”

Where do you go to apply for a permit?

Visit the building department in at between 8 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.

What should you bring when applying for a permit?

Most projects require two plan drawings along with a site plan. For all full list of materials needed for a permit application, the city offers a packet of information on the website.

How much does a permit cost?

Permit fees vary by project and start at $25 for a fence. A full fee schedule is available online.

What about inspections?

Building permit fees help to pay for inspections that are required for all projects. The total number of inspections will vary by project type.

Generally, inspections are required at the following benchmarks:

• Before covering or concealing work
• Installation of footing drains, building drains and building sewers
• Completion of foundation and waterproofing
• During framing of the superstructure
• The completion of roughing in the plumbing, electrical wiring, gas piping, heating ducts or piping or other similar service installations
• Before closing in all structural elements
• Upon final completion of the structure

To schedule an inspection, contact the building department at (330) 668-9500 24-hours in advance.

To determine the permits required for your project or if you need any additional assistance, contact City of Fairlawn Zoning, Housing and Residential Building Department at (330) 668-9500 or visit them at 3487 S. Smith Rd. weekdays between 7:30am-4:00pm.