As a homeowner or property owner in Columbus, Ohio, undertaking concrete repair or resurfacing projects can be a complex process, but it’s essential to ensure compliance with local regulations and safety standards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the permit requirements, the application process, and the inspection procedures to help you navigate the concrete repair landscape in Columbus successfully.
Understanding the Permit Requirement
In the city of Columbus, any work involving new construction, alterations, or changes to an existing building or structure generally requires a building permit. This includes projects related to concrete repair, resurfacing, and maintenance.
The Columbus Building Code and the Residential Code of Ohio both mandate plan review and permit approval before commencing any construction work. This ensures that the proposed project meets the necessary safety and code requirements.
Determining if a Permit is Needed
The need for a permit typically depends on the scope of your concrete repair or resurfacing project. Some common projects that require a permit include:
- Installing a new driveway or parking pad
- Expanding or widening an existing driveway
- Repaving an existing driveway or parking pad (if the surface material is being changed)
- Adding or replacing a concrete patio, walkway, or other flatwork
On the other hand, repairs or maintenance to an existing driveway or concrete surface that do not involve changes to the size, location, or material may not require a permit. It’s always best to check with the Department of Building and Zoning Services to determine the specific requirements for your project.
The Permit Application Process
The permit application process for concrete repair or resurfacing projects in Columbus can be initiated through the city’s Citizen Access Portal or by visiting the Department of Building and Zoning Services in person.
Submitting Your Application Online
- Create an Account: Begin by creating an account on the Citizen Access Portal.
- Select the Permit Type: Choose the appropriate permit type for your concrete repair or resurfacing project, such as a “Driveway/Parking Pad” permit.
- Provide Project Details: Describe the scope of your project, including any changes to the size, location, or material of the concrete surface.
- Upload Required Documents: Depending on the project, you may need to provide site plans, drawings, or other supporting documents.
- Pay the Permit Fees: Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to pay the associated permit fees before the review process can begin.
In-Person Application Submission
If you prefer to submit your application in person, you can visit the Department of Building and Zoning Services during their business hours (Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM) and provide the following:
- Completed Application: Obtain and fill out the appropriate permit application form.
- Required Documents: Bring the necessary site plans, drawings, or other supporting materials.
- Permit Fees: Be prepared to pay the required permit fees at the time of submission.
The Plan Review and Approval Process
Once your permit application and supporting documents have been submitted, the city’s plan review process will begin. This process typically takes about one week for 1-, 2-, and 3-family residential projects.
During the plan review, city officials will assess your project to ensure it complies with the Columbus Building Code, the Residential Code of Ohio, and any applicable zoning regulations.
Potential Outcomes of the Plan Review
- Approved: If your plans meet all the necessary requirements, you’ll receive an email with information on how to retrieve your approved plan, building permit, and stamped plans.
- Correction Letter: If your plans don’t provide enough information or fail to comply with the appropriate codes, a correction and information letter will be issued. At this point, your plans will be placed on hold, and you’ll need to respond to the corrections before the review can proceed.
Scheduling Inspections
Once your permit has been issued, you’ll need to schedule the required inspections for your concrete repair or resurfacing project. These inspections can be scheduled through the Citizen Access Portal or by calling the automated phone system.
Inspection Process
- Inspection Types: Depending on the scope of your project, you may need multiple inspections, such as a rough inspection and a final inspection.
- Inspection Trips: Each permit is issued with a base number of inspection trips. Each time an inspector visits the site, regardless of the inspection type or result, a trip is deducted from the permit.
- Requesting Inspections: You can schedule inspections for the next business day or an upcoming business day of your choice until midnight through the Citizen Access Portal or the automated phone system.
- Inspection Times: Inspectors are typically in the field from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on business days. While you can request a specific time of day or a call-ahead, these requests are not guaranteed.
Permit Expiration and Extensions
It’s important to note that your permit will expire if work does not commence within 12 months of plan approval. Once work has started, there can be no delays or suspensions of work for more than 6 months.
If you need additional time to complete your project, you can request a permit extension. One 12-month extension to start work and two 6-month extensions for delays or suspensions of work are typically available, subject to approval.
Additional Considerations
While the permit process is a crucial step in concrete repair and resurfacing projects in Columbus, there are a few other factors to keep in mind:
Zoning Clearance: Depending on the location and nature of your project, you may need to obtain zoning clearance from the city’s Zoning Department. This is particularly important for projects that involve changes to the size, location, or appearance of driveways, parking pads, or other concrete surfaces.
Contractor Licensing: All contractors performing work within the city of Columbus must be licensed and registered with the Department of Building and Zoning Services. Be sure to verify the credentials of any contractors you hire to ensure they are authorized to work in the city.
Historic or Design Review Areas: If your property is located within a historic district or a design review commission area, such as the Downtown District or German Village, you may need to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness before submitting your permit application.
By understanding the permit requirements, following the application process, and scheduling the necessary inspections, you can ensure your concrete repair or resurfacing project in Columbus, Ohio, is completed safely, legally, and in compliance with local regulations. Remember to consult with the Department of Building and Zoning Services if you have any questions or need further guidance throughout the process.
