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Medina, OH Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Governing section
Codified Ordinance 1311.03(a)
Base residential fee
$35.00 plus 10¢/sq ft
Permit revoked if idle
90 days (no start) / 6 months (suspended)
Minor repair exemption
1311.06, no structural/electrical change
Max penalty
$1,000 fine / 3 months jail per day

Summary

Medina requires a permit before any construction, enlargement, alteration, repair or removal of a residential building or any occupancy under the Ohio Building Code, per Codified Ordinance 1311.03(a). Fees start at $35.00 plus ten cents per square foot, and violators risk fines up to $1,000.

1311.03 BUILDING PERMIT ISSUANCE.

(a) Before proceeding with the construction, enlargement, alteration, repair or removal of any one, two or three-family residential building or structure and all occupancies named in the Ohio Building Code as defined in Ohio R.C. Chapters 3781 and 3791 inclusive; or any auxiliary building or structure thereto, a permit shall first be obtained by the owner of the premises upon which the building or structure is located, or proposed to be built, from the Department of Building Regulations.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2025-01: Local legislation current through June 24, 2025 | State legislation current through December 31, 2024).

Full Breakdown

C. 02(f). Once the Chief Building Official confirms the plans conform to the Building Code and Zoning Ordinances and the fee is paid, the permit issues. 03(f) exempts plasterers, drywallers, plumbers, floor coverers, wall tilers, electricians, storm window installers, guttermen, cabinet installers and awning or ornamental iron work installers from needing a separate building permit, but only as long as their work does not require a foundation or alter the existing structure. 06 separately exempts minor interior repairs or alterations that do not touch bearing walls, structural parts, the electrical system, stairways, or means of egress, light or ventilation. 00. 07.

Violations & Fines

Whoever performs work requiring a permit without first obtaining one is subject to the general Building Code penalty under 1301.99: a fine of not more than $1,000, imprisonment for not more than three months, or both, with each day of continued violation a separate offense. A permit can also be revoked under 1311.07 if construction stalls for ninety days after issuance or is suspended six months mid-project.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Medina require a building permit?
Before any construction, enlargement, alteration, repair or removal of a one, two or three-family residential building, or any occupancy named in the Ohio Building Code, under 1311.03(a). The owner must obtain the permit first, submit written plans, and pay the fee before work begins.
Are any home repairs exempt from a Medina building permit?
Yes. Under 1311.06, minor interior repairs or alterations that do not change bearing walls, structural parts, the electrical system, stairways, or means of ingress, egress, light or ventilation do not need a permit.
How long is a Medina building permit valid before it can be revoked?
Under 1311.07, the Chief Building Official can revoke a permit if actual construction has not begun within ninety days of issuance, or if work is suspended for six months during construction, after written notice to the owner.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Medina

All Medina rules

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