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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Westerville
New construction, additions, alterations, and trade work for both residential and commercial structures within Westerville city limits.
Note: Ohio Building Code Section 105.2 and Residential Code of Ohio Section R105.2 provide state minimum exemptions. Confirm local additions or modifications with department.
- Completed application
- Construction documents or drawings
- Site plan
- Trade-specific applications (separate permits for electrical, HVAC, plumbing)
- Building code
- 2024 Ohio Building Code (commercial; effective March 1, 2024 per state mandate); 2019 Residential Code of Ohio (1-, 2-, 3-family dwellings); current Ohio Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical codes. Westerville is a state-certified building department.
- Contractor requirements
- State OCILB license required for electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and related trades. Any Westerville-specific contractor registration requirements should be confirmed with the department at (614) 901-6650.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Access the ePlan Submission Portal through the Westerville website
- 02 Select applicable permit type (residential or commercial building, trade permit)
- 03 Upload application and construction documents through the online portal
- 04 Building Division (State of Ohio-certified building department) reviews plans for code compliance
- 05 Ohio law requires review response within 30 days of receipt
- 06 Pay permit fees
- 07 Permit is issued
- 08 Schedule inspections through portal or by calling (614) 901-6650
- 09 Complete required inspections
- 10 Obtain occupancy approval where applicable
Source: Building Division (within the Planning and Development Department) ↗
Fee schedule
Effective July 1, 2023
Online payment through permit portal; in person at 64 East Walnut Street
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective July 1, 2023) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- ePlan portal (online)
- (614) 901-6650 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday business hours
Typical sequence: Follows OBC/RCO standards -- footings, foundation, rough trades, framing, insulation, finals
Frequently asked
Common questions about Westerville permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Westerville, OH? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Westerville, OH? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Westerville, OH? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Westerville, OH? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Division (within the Planning and Development Department) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.