Cleveland, OH Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

Cleveland's Codified Ordinances Title XV (Zoning Code) Section 337.02 lists permitted uses by district. Two-family dwellings are permitted in B and C districts; three-family in higher-density zones. Detached accessory dwelling units are not broadly permitted as-of-right city-wide but can be approved through Board of Zoning Appeals variance or as part of legalization of pre-existing non-conforming structures. Cleveland has many older garage-apartment configurations and converted third-floor units that pre-date current zoning and may be eligible for legalization. Permits are filed with the Department of Building and Housing at 601 Lakeside Avenue, Room 505. Required: zoning verification, building permit, electrical/plumbing/mechanical trade permits, and certificate of occupancy. The City has adopted the 2017 Ohio Building Code and 2017 Ohio Residential Code (one-, two-, and three-family). Detached ADUs require zoning review through the Department of City Planning. Plan review averages 14-21 business days. The Cleveland City Planning Commission has periodically considered citywide ADU enabling legislation, but as of current code there is no by-right ADU framework in single-family districts.