City of Warren

Any work connected with the location, erection, construction, repair, alteration, demolition, moving, or equipping of a building requires a permit. Work in the public right of way also requires a permit.

Building code

Ohio Building Code, Ohio Mechanical Code, Ohio Plumbing Code, Ohio Existing Building Code, and the Residential Code of Ohio for residential one, two, and three family dwellings.

Owner-builder

Permits may be issued to homeowners who work on the single family dwelling in which they reside.

Contractor requirements

City contractor registration is required for contractors pulling permits. Permits can only be issued to registered contractors under Warren Codified Ordinances 1305.015 or to qualifying owner-occupants. Contractor registration surety bond amount is $25,000 effective December 29, 2025.

1. 01
   Confirm the permit type with the Engineering, Planning and Building Department.
2. 02
   If a contractor will pull the permit, complete city contractor registration through the contractor portal before permit issuance.
3. 03
   Submit the correct online permit application in iWorQ and upload all required documents before submission.
4. 04
   Pay permit charges and any applicable Ohio BBS state assessment.
5. 05
   Arrange required inspections through the iWorQ portal.
6. 06
   Receive permit approval before starting work.

Source: Engineering, Planning and Building Department ↗

Department accepts checks or money orders. iWorQ existing permits portal also supports online payments on active permit records.

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• iWorQ existing permits portal (portal)

Inspection hours

Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM (closed noon to 1:00 PM)