The short version
- Columbus requires a Roof, Siding, Windows, Doors permit to replace a roof.
- Suburbs set their own rules. Upper Arlington and Worthington have specific requirements.
- HOA approval is separate from a city permit.
- Your roofer should pull the permit.
City of Columbus: yes
The City of Columbus Building and Zoning Services says that replacing a roof, siding, windows or doors requires a Roof, Siding, Windows, Doors permit. If structural work is involved, such as changing rafters or trusses, an alteration permit is required instead. The roof permit typically includes one inspection trip.
Permit fees change, so check the city's current fee schedule. In most cases your roofer pulls the permit and includes the fee in the estimate.
Permits in the suburbs and elsewhere in Ohio
Most Central Ohio suburbs have their own building departments, and the rules differ. A few examples:
- Upper Arlington requires a building permit when roof decking, sheathing or framing is replaced along with the shingles, which is common on older homes.
- Worthington has an Architectural Review District, including Old Worthington, where exterior changes can need approval from the city's Architectural Review Board in addition to a permit.
- Other cities and townships each have their own rules. Some don't require a permit for simple re-shingling.
Always check with your city or township building department before work starts.
Don't forget your HOA
Many neighborhoods in Dublin, New Albany, Powell and Lewis Center have HOAs with rules on shingle style and color. HOA approval is separate from a city permit, and you may need both.
Who pulls the permit?
Usually your roofing contractor, and you should ask them to. A contractor who pulls the permit is putting the work on record and agreeing to have it inspected. Ohio doesn't issue a statewide roofing license, so local rules apply. Columbus, for example, requires contractor licensing for residential roofing work.
Why it matters
- An inspection checks that the work meets code.
- Unpermitted work can come up when you sell your home.
- It protects you if there's ever a question about how the roof was installed.
We handle permits where they're required. Get your free estimate.