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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Worthington
New construction, additions, alterations, and equipment replacements. Separate permits required for electrical, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, plumbing, use of public property, and tents.
- Exempt Fences not over 6 feet in height (no Certificate of Occupancy/Completion required)
- Exempt Most sign permit face replacements (no certificate required)
- Exempt Sheds under 200 sq ft
Note: Other exemptions follow 2019 Residential Code of Ohio Section R105.2 and 2024 OBC Section 105.2
- Varies by complexity: application
- Site plan (available from Franklin County or City GIS)
- Construction documents
- Manufacturer literature for like-for-like replacements
- Complete drawings for additions and new construction
- Building code
- 2024 Ohio Building Code (based on IBC 2021, via Chapter 1301 of Codified Ordinances); 2019 Residential Code of Ohio (1-, 2-, 3-family dwellings, via Chapter 1305); 2024 Ohio Plumbing Code; 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code; 2023 National Electrical Code (Ohio Electrical Code); 2022 Ohio Fire Code (via Chapter 1501); 2018 International Property Maintenance Code (Chapter 1311)
- Contractor requirements
- State OCILB license required for electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and related trades. Separate permits required per trade. Confirm any Worthington-specific contractor registration requirements with department.
Application process
Typical processing: Ohio law requires approval or denial within 30 days of receipt. Simple permits often faster.
- 01 Access the EnerGov CSS portal at worthington.org/css or obtain paper application at City Hall, 374 Highland Ave.
- 02 Submit application with construction documents detailing the scope of work
- 03 For simple projects (sheds, fences, equipment replacements): a site plan showing location and construction method may suffice; manufacturer literature may be acceptable for replacements
- 04 For complex projects (additions, new buildings): complete construction documents required
- 05 Zoning compliance review may be required for projects affecting the building footprint or site
- 06 Plans examiner reviews for code compliance; Ohio law requires review decision within 30 days of receipt
- 07 Pay permit fees (invoice emailed after review; payment through CSS portal or in person)
- 08 Permit is issued
- 09 Schedule inspections through the CSS portal
- 10 Complete required inspections at each stage before work is covered
- 11 Final inspection; Certificate of Occupancy, Completion, or Compliance issued on request
Typical processing time: Ohio law requires approval or denial within 30 days of receipt. Simple permits often faster.
Source: Division of Building Regulation (within the Planning and Building Department) ↗
Fee schedule
Worthington building permit fees
Invoice emailed through CSS portal after plan review; fee payment available online through CSS or in person
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- EnerGov CSS portal (online)
- (614) 431-2424 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday 7:30 AM-4:30 PM
Typical sequence: Footings; foundation; rough electrical, plumbing, HVAC; framing; insulation; finishes; final building/zoning inspection
Frequently asked
Common questions about Worthington permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Worthington, OH? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Worthington, OH? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Worthington, OH? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Worthington, OH? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Worthington, OH? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Division of Building Regulation (within the Planning and Building Department) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.