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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Cortland
New residential dwellings and accessory projects such as decks, sheds, porches, pavilions, gazebos, pools, and fences. Septic permit is required from the Trumbull County Health Department when septic service is proposed.
- One original color application and two copies
- Lot and owner information
- Benchmark, north arrow, and scale
- Bearings and lot-line data
- Easements and setbacks
- Utility information
- Streams, swales, and ditches
- Floodplain data where applicable
- Driveway information
- Foundation dimensions
- Structure setbacks
- Finished floor elevations
- Building floor plans
- Architectural elevations
- Any required as-built changes
- Building code
- City codified zoning ordinances and Trumbull County Building Department valuation schedule. Ohio codes apply as administered locally.
- Permit validity
- Zoning permit expires if work described is not substantially completed within six months of issuance or if the vacant parcel is not used for the approved purpose.
- Contractor requirements
- Builder information is required on the form. No separate city contractor registration rule clearly stated. State-licensed trades subject to Ohio licensing rules.
Application process
Typical processing: Seven to ten days for review of complete applications.
- 01 Select the correct city zoning permit application, such as new residential dwelling or accessory use.
- 02 Prepare the required site plan, architectural drawings, and application copies.
- 03 Submit one original color application and two copies of the required materials to the city.
- 04 The application is reviewed by the City of Cortland Service Director.
- 05 The applicant is contacted when plans are approved.
- 06 After zoning certificate approval, pay city zoning, water, and sewer fees and obtain any separate county, health department, or trade permits.
Typical processing time: Seven to ten days for review of complete applications.
Source: Planning, Zoning and Building Commission / Service Director ↗
Fee schedule
Cortland building permit fees
Checks payable to the City of Cortland. Water and sewer fees are based on Cortland codified ordinances and are payable when the zoning certificate is issued.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Site inspections at discretion of Service Director (discretionary)
Typical sequence: Submit application and plans, city review, approval or conditions, then site inspection as directed by the Service Director.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Cortland permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Cortland, OH? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Cortland, OH? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Cortland, OH? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Cortland, OH? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Cortland, OH? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Planning, Zoning and Building Commission / Service Director before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.