What You Need to Know About Building Permits in Cleveland Heights

1. Cleveland Heights residents need building permits for most construction projects, including window replacement, electrical, plumbing and heating upgrades, concrete work and asphalt resurfacing. In addition, if residents want to build a deck or pool, they must have a permit. A permit is not necessary for minor repairs and painting, for example, but the city suggests homeowners call 216-291-4900 before beginning any work to make sure. A ton of useful information is also available on the city's website. 

2. Homeowners can pick up permit applications at during the specified permit hours, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Or they can mail a request and include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Forms are not available online. 

3. Contractors must be registered with Cleveland Heights, and there is a contractor list provided on the city’s website. Residents can browse contractors by trade. Homeowners do not have to be registered to obtain a permit to complete repairs on their homes themselves if it is a single-family property. If it’s a rental home, landlords have to register or hire a city-registered contractor. 

4. The cost of obtaining a building permit varies. A permit fee schedule is available on the Cleveland Heights website. 

5. The City of Cleveland Heights has an extensive amount of information on building permits on its website. Forms, fee information, details about specific projects like plumbing installation, pool and hot tub requirements and more are available online. 

6. Work must be inspected to make sure it meets code, and the city suggests homeowners schedule a final inspection before paying contractors. Building inspectors approve permits, but additions and other projects that change the exterior of a home must be approved by the Architectural Board of Review, which meets twice a month. Residents must submit permit applications a week before meetings. The board's meeting schedule is on the city's website. 

7. Ask the city for a tip sheet about hiring contractors. Cleveland Heights provides useful information about how to choose a contractor, obtain estimates and who to call for additional help, including the nonprofit . 

8. Want more information? Check out the city's website, call the building department at 216-291-4900 or stop by City Hall.