BuildingPermitCost How Columbus calculates your permit fee
The city charges a building permit fee using a flat $1,100.00.
The fee table
1, 2 and 3 family dwelling, new construction and additions (additions match via new)
A flat $1,100.00.
1, 2 and 3 family dwelling, alterations/remodels and accessory structures
A flat $385.00.
Multi-family dwellings and commercial/mixed use: new, additions, alterations, accessory structures, pools
| Floor area | Fee |
|---|---|
| 0 sq ft – 1,000 sq ft | $700.00 |
| Over 1,000 sq ft | $700.00 for the first 1,000 sq ft + $7.00 per additional 10 sq ft or fraction |
What counts as project value
Floor area (square feet). Fees are not valuation-based. 1, 2 and 3 family dwellings pay flat fees per permit type. Multi-family and commercial pay a base fee plus a charge per 10 gross sq ft over 1,000 sq ft: "Fees that are based upon square footage refer to the gross square footage of all areas of construction as specified in C.C. 4113.43."
Worked example: a $350,000 new home
- Building permit fee: flat fee = $1,100.00
- Total before trade permits: $1,100.00.
Fees people miss
May also apply (not in the totals above)
- Working without a permit, Level 1: when Only when work was started without a permit (levels 1-4: $200 / $750 / $1,750 / $4,000); $200.00 on the standard projects.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| 1-3 family mechanical, electrical, and plumbing permit (includes 2 inspections) | $275.00 each |
| 1-3 family minor work permit (electrical, mechanical or plumbing, approved list) | $140.00 each |
| 1-3 family advanced construction startWhen: Only when an advanced construction start is requested | $125.00 each |
| 1-3 family foundation permitWhen: Only for a separate foundation permit | $275.00 each |
| Commercial demolition | $200.00 each |
| Additional inspection tripWhen: Only when an extra inspection trip is needed | $225.00 each |
| 1-3 family plan revisions, plan review only, first hourWhen: Only for plan revisions | $225.00 first hour |
| Commercial and multi-family plan revisions / plan review / preliminary plan review, first hourWhen: Only for plan revisions or preliminary review | $500.00 first hour |
| After-hours plan review (expedited), base and first 2 hoursWhen: Expedited service only, subject to approval | $2,200.00 each |
| Permit extension (OBC 105.3)When: Only when an extension is requested | $100.00 per permit |
| Fire suppression review fee | $400.00 each |
| Fire alarm/detection review fee | $400.00 each |
How to apply
- Gather your plans and your project's total value and floor area.
- Submit to Department of Building and Zoning Services online through Citizens Access Portal.
- Pay the permit and plan review fees when invoiced.
- Questions: 614-645-7433 · 111 N Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215